Diapering your baby

Today’s parents have options for diapering a baby: disposable diapers, cloth diapers and diaper services. There are pros and cons to each. Choose the one that best fits the needs of you and your baby. Many parents use a combination of options.

Health and safety hints

Whichever diapering option you choose, follow these tips to keep your baby safe and healthy.

Change wet or soiled diapers promptly. For a newborn, this could be as often as every hour.
Never leave your baby unattended on a changing table. Keep fasteners and lotions out of baby’s reach.
Avoid excessive cleaning with harsh soap or diaper wipes that contain alcohol. They can dry and irritate skin.
Avoid perfumes in skin products or disposable diapers. They can increase skin irritation.
Always wipe baby’s bottom from front to back, to keep stool away from the urethra or penis.
To prevent diaper rash, dry skin thoroughly before putting on a clean diaper and expose baby’s diaper area to air as often as possible.
Pediatricians recommend not using talcum or baby powder, because babies can breathe in the particles.
If your baby has diaper rash, apply an ointment such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly at changing time, and let your baby go without diapers for a few hours each day.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after changing diapers to prevent the spread of germs.