One of the aspects of motherhood that many people look forward to the least is the diaper changing. If you’ve never done it before, it can be intimidating, especially because new babies seem extremely fragile.
There are a lot of questions that come up when it comes to diaper changing, many of which aren’t considered until mom or dad changes the first diaper. Here are some answers to a few common questions.
What type of diapers do I use? There are many different types and brands available, each one promising to be the best. Some mothers actually prefer cloth diapers because they aren’t treated with as many chemicals as disposable diapers, and they seem to be more environmentally friendly. However, keep in mind that though the cloth diapers aren’t going in the landfills, they do require a lot of washing so you will be using more water.
With disposable diapers your best bet is to try a few brands until you find the one that you like. If baby is continually pooping up his back or down his leg, you may want to consider a different brand or size.
Where do I change my baby? The answer to this question will change depending on where you are. If you are home, you might find it convenient to have a diaper changing station somewhere in the house. Here you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips and a changing table to lay your baby on. Changing tables come with changing pads that are sometimes uncomfortable for baby, so you may want to get a changing pad cover to ease his discomfort.
Not all moms prefer changing tables, however. Many of them simply lay out a blanket or a thin changing pad on the floor, or wherever they are, and change the baby there. Just don’t change him in a room full of people. Small changing pads fit easily into the diaper bag and can come with you wherever you go. This is the most convenient way to change baby.
How often do I change my baby? This answer, again, will change depending on your baby. If he poops, change him right away. With wet diapers, it’s a little different, however, because if you changed him every time he wet, you would go through more diapers than is necessary. Usually every few hours will be just fine, unless his diaper feels really full.
These are a few answers to some common questions, but there are more that will arise, depending on your baby. Don’t worry, though. After you’ve changed him a few times you’ll get the swing of things and diaper changing will become a breeze.
Kat Hafen writes and contributes for many baby and parent online publications including HugaMonkey. Always on a quest for the best baby diaper gear, Kat can point out a great changing pad cover.For more information regarding changing pad covers, visit HugaMonkey.
