Diapering Basics

Babies have to be changed often as they frequently have bowel movements. For changing a diaper, certain things are essential. Keeping the things needed for nappy change together at a place will help in easy changing. Here is a guide on diapers. In this articleWhat things will I need for diapering?Are cloth nappies better than disposable diapers?How often will I need to change her?How to prevent diaper rashes?What things will I need for diapering?There are a few essentials you will need to keep next to the changing table: diapers and diaper-saving tape or cloth nappies (if you prefer); baby wipes or moistened cotton wool balls; and ointment to prevent diaper rash. (There should be a duplicate set of these in your diaper or stroller bag.) It is always best to keep extras of everything on hand since you will go through it all quickly.Are cloth nappies better than disposable diapers?Cloth nappies are certainly better for the child than disposable diapers, because the childs bottom gets much more air making it more comfortable and reducing the chance of diaper rash. (Placing nappy liners inside cloth nappies makes them similar to disposable diapers because they can prevent moisture from touching the babys bottom). But cloth nappies could very easily lead to diaper rash if certain precautions are not taken, such as changing the babys nappy soon after she passes urine or stools. Cloth nappies also turn out to be significantly less expensive than disposable diapers since they can be reused.How often will I need to change her?At first your baby will have to be changed often, since she will probably have a bowel movement and wet frequently. To change the baby, place her on her back and thoroughly clean the genital area with water-soaked cotton balls. Apply ointment as prescribed by doctor, then diaper.If the infants navel is not yet healed, be sure to fold the diaper underneath it to avoid irritating this sensitive area. Sometimes the tape gets greasy and the diaper wont stay closed; use a piece of diaper-saver tape to salvage the diaper. Before bedtime, use a liner to keep her extra dry and comfortable.How to prevent diaper rashes?It is advisable to avoid using diapers, liners or nappy pads when your baby is very small. During the initial days, cloth nappies are the best to prevent the discomfort for babies. Nappies of small babies are small too. So, it would not make a huge load of laundry for your caretakers so there is no need to worry.Do not let your baby stay in wet nappies for longer and change her immediately. This exercise can reduce the chances of rashes to a greater extent. You can begin with using nappy liners and pads when your baby is a month old. Start with using them only at night. You can then gradually move to using diapers at night.Do not keep your baby in diapers for the whole day as the constant rubbing of skin with diapers can result in painful diaper rashes. Always allow your baby’s bottoms to feel the air by providing some diaper free time. When you change your baby’s diapers, clean her properly and pat her dry.If you notice any kind of rash in your baby’s diaper area, report to your doctor immediately. Do not do anything on your own. Let your doctor know about the products that you are using for your baby. Do not try any home remedies on your baby for curing her diaper rashes without consulting your doctor. Doing such things may aggravate the condition. Do not make your baby wear diapers till the rashes health. It will also help the rashes to heal faster. Strictly follow your doctor’s advice and use only the medications which are recommended by him.