Tips for Safe, Efficient Diaper Changing

One of the tasks new parents face is changing diapers. Many questions about diaper changing come up during these early months, such as what is the best way to wash the area? Which diaper cream or ointment is the most effective in preventing diaper rash? How can baby’s skin be protected when exposed during diaper changes? How often should you change your baby’s diaper?

Tips for safe, efficient diaper changing

Safety

Since changing tables are quite high, be sure to keep one hand on your baby at all times when changing his diaper to prevent sudden falls. Never leave your baby unsupervised on the changing table or on any other elevated surface.

Frequency

Parents usually do not know when their baby’s diaper is full. While babies sometimes draw their attention by crying or acting restless, parents often misconstrue these signals. Wet diapers should be changed every 2-3 hours and immediately after a bowel movement. Keep in mind that newborns have soft bowel movements up to 12 times a day while older babies have bowel movements 3-4 times a day.

Preventing diaper rash and redness

Diaper rash is an allergic reaction that appears on the areas of the skin normally covered by a diaper, usually in the folds of the groin and near the bottom area. Its primary cause is infrequent diaper changes, which can lead to excess moisture and increased acidity of the skin, disrupting its function as a barrier between the body and its environment. Diaper rash can be prevented by changing diapers at least 8 time a day, or every 2-3 hours. When changing your baby’s diaper, wash the skin with running water and gently pat dry. If you use baby wipes, choose wipes that are suitable for sensitive skin. Use a therapeutic diaper ointment like SeboCalm Baby Diaper Rash Ointment, which is water-free and has been dermatologically tested for baby’s sensitive skin. Ideally, use an ointment that forms a layer of protection from dampness and moisture without blocking pores to allow skin to breathe. During the summer months, let your baby be diaper-free in order keep the skin ventilated. If the rash persists for several days or if blisters or pus-filled sores appear, contact your baby’s physician.

Temperature

Baby’s skin is exposed during diaper changes, so adjust the room’s heating setting to 23-24 degrees Celsius in the winter months, or the air-conditioner setting to no lower than 25 Celsius in the summer months.

Keep your playful baby occupied

Babies are playful by nature, and the older they get, the easier it becomes for them to lose patience during diaper changes. Make diaper changing a pleasant experience for both baby and parent. Sing songs together, make funny faces and sounds, and talk to your baby. Hang a mobile over the changing table and place toys, books or any other item on the changing table that might distract her.