Here’s a step-by-step guide to diapering that will have new dads breezing through diaper duty, nice and easy. Let’s get started shall we?

STEP 1: THE WHERE

If there’s already a nappy station in your baby’s room, then you are already good to go. If not, find a spot where it’s at a comfortable height for you. Wherever it is, make sure that it is safe for your baby. It’s highly important that she won’t roll over and fall off the surface at that one millisecond you take your hands and eyes away from her to get something. Never, ever leave your baby unattended. It is important to remember that when handling a baby, you only have two arms, and one of them is usually required to hold him, leaving only one arm to reach for things. Make sure you have everything you need close by before placing your baby on the changing table.

STEP 2: THE WHAT

Get all these things together:

  • a stack of fresh nappies (disposable)
  • wet wipes or a bowl for warm water and some cotton wool
  • tissues
  • fresh baby clothes
  • nappy rash cream
  • something to discard the used nappies

STEP 3: THE HOW

Before we start – are your hands clean? Yes, what’s inside the nappy is probably grimier than your hands, but it’s better to handle your baby with clean hands anyway. Wash your hands, take a deep breath, here we go:

  • Undo the bottom half of baby’s clothing and move it out of the way.
  • Undo the dirty nappy but hold it in place for a moment – sometimes babies a pee when the cold air strikes
    their bits.
  • Hold the baby by the ankles, lift bottom and use the old nappy to wipe away the poop and pee.
  • Dump the old nappy.
  • Wipe the whole area covered by the nappy, using either warm water and cotton wool or wet wipes.
    • For girls – always wipe from front to back to help prevent infection
    • For boys – never ever pull back his foreskin. It takes months for it to separate from the rest of his penis
  • Pat dry (don’t rub) with cotton wool or a tissue. This will help prevent nappy rash.
  • Put on nappy cream, if needed. It’s soothing and helps prevent nappy rash and infections.
  • You can leave the nappy off for a little while and let baby have a kick-about to help keep that little bottom free of nappy rash.
  • Lift the bottom off the mat – again by the ankles – and slide a clean nappy underneath.
  • Place the new diaper tab side first under your baby’s bottom. The front of the nappy goes between the legs. For new infants, fold the front of the diaper down so it does not cover his umbilical cord.
  • Bring it up between his legs and fasten it on either side with the tape tabs. Make sure it’s not too tight. If you can you slide a finger easily around the inside of the waistband, it’s all good.
  • Dress baby.
  • Give baby a big kiss and a big hug.
  • Wash your hands, congratulate yourself and have a beer – diaper duty is done! For now…