It’s a parenting right of passage, learning how to change a newborn nappy, but when you stand at the changing table for the first time and see this delicate creature lying in front of you, you may suddenly have doubts. It’ll become second nature soon enough, after all you’re going to have plenty of practice (8-12 times a day at the beginning!). And to help you feel even more confident, we've got a few helpful tips on how to ergonomically handle your baby while changing them, that will make it more comfortable for them and you.
What do you need to change your baby properly?
While this might not seem like rocket science, no one wants to find themselves in the middle of the changing process only to realise something is missing. Walking around with your half-naked baby in your arms is asking for trouble. So, having a checklist makes sure you’ve got what you need…
1. A safe space to change baby: Your changing table or changing station should be in a quiet and warm place. Always secure your baby on it with one hand - no matter how little they move. This can change faster than you think. If you have to change your baby on the go, look for a quiet place without much distraction or excitement so that your baby can relax. Talk to them in a calming way, telling them all the things you’re doing as you do them. Also make sure you have a wipeable and comfortable changing pad.
2. Changing equipment: Put everything you need to change your baby properly within easy reach. This includes:
-
- A clean nappy
- Wet/reusable wipes
- Lukewarm water (if needed)
- A change of clothes (just in case!)
- Nappy cream (if needed)
3. Hygiene: Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before and after changing nappies.
4. On the go: Always carry a portable changing pad with you so that you can change your baby hygienically wherever you go. Our new portable changing pad is a small nappy bag with a changing mat and storage space for nappies, cream and wipes. There's also room for your smartphone, keys or money in a zipped front pocket. It has a practical carrying loop that you can use to attach it to your stroller or even the waist belt of your baby carrier!
How to change a newborn nappy ergonomically - a guide
So now the time has come: your baby needs a fresh nappy and is lying happily in front of you on your changing mat. You've taken our tips to heart and are well prepared. Everything you need is lying next to you. But what now? Follow traditional steps you’d probably now open the nappy, take your little one's legs or feet in your hands and pull them up to lift their bottom.
But we want you to do it differently! Experts no longer recommend lifting baby that way because this is not a movement that your baby could or would do independently and is therefore something you should avoid. It can also restrict your baby's digestion and breathing, which is of course very uncomfortable and makes your little one tense.
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Therefore we recommend following these steps:
- Open your baby's dirty nappy while they are lying on their back.
- Clean their genitals.
- Gently roll your baby onto their side and clean their bum (always wiping from front to back for girls).
- Hold baby in this position and open the new nappy, which you now place on their bottom/underneath them.
- Help your baby to turn gently back onto their back.
- If the genital area is reddened, apply a nappy cream. If possible, let your baby wiggle around a little without the nappy so that air can get to their skin.
- Now close the front and stick the adhesive strips/tabs together. It only needs to be tight enough to fit two fingers between the tummy and nappy.
- Check the fit of the cuffs on the legs to prevent your little one from leaking.
How to change a newborn nappy ergonomically - encouraging natural movements
There it is. How to change a newborn nappy. Now you're all set for the next (probably) three years, maybe even longer. And believe us, you'll soon master nappy-changing your baby in your sleep - possibly literally! It is important that you change your baby's nappy regularly right from the start, as baby's skin is super sensitive and reacts quickly with skin irritation - especially after a bowel movement. And if you nappy your baby in the way detailed above, they will automatically learn the natural turning movement onto their side from birth. And this is exactly what they will need later on to be able to turn themself from their back to their tummy. Changing a baby's nappy ergonomically is therefore a kind of early motor development. And where better to do it than on our new portable changing pad!