Henry Ford Health System
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How to Diaper Your Baby

Before you start to change your baby, make sure you have all the necessary supplies within easy reach. NEVER leave your baby alone on the changing table not even for a second. It wont be long before he will be able to turn over, and if he does it when your eyes or attention are diverted, a serious injury could result.

When changing a newborn, you will need:

  • A clean diaper
  • Ointment or petroleum jelly (for use only if baby has a rash)
  • Cotton balls and a small basin with lukewarm water and a washcloth (commercial diaper wipes can also be used, although some babies are sensitive to them; if any irritation occurs, discontinue use)

Then you proceed:

  • Remove the dirty diaper and use the lukewarm water and cotton balls to gently wipe your baby clean (remember to wipe front to back on female infants)
  • Use the damp washcloth to wipe the diaper area
  • Use the diaper rash preparation recommended by your pediatrician if needed
  • Put on the new diaper


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