Tradition used to be that grandmothers would teach their daughters the propers folding and pinning of diapers on the new grandbaby. Not as common today, the information is important and will help you and your baby get a healthy start.
Diapers to Wear
Usually you’ll change the baby every couple of hours. That’s over one thousand diapers in the first year! Changing regularly and thorough cleaning with sanitary wipes will help protect the skin, and also prepare for potty training time.
Urine and baby waste contains chemicals in it that are harsh for the skin when there has been prolonged contact. This can lead to diaper rash and other skin irritations. To help protect from this while your child is still wearing diapers, there are some patterns you can develop in schedule and care. First, change the diaper regularly; as soon as possible for a solid dirty diaper. It will help if the baby can spend a few minutes break between changes air-drying. This does not need to be extensive, but a couple of extra moments playing peek-a-boo on the changing table. Also, notice if your baby’s skin is especially sensitive to the soaps, wipes and lotions you use. If there is a concern, use extra mild formulas, non-scented and gentile. Some foods may increase the risks of diaper rash, so also keep an eye on patterns that might relate to what he or she has been eating lately. To care for diaper rash, there are effective over the counter topical ointments. Always phone or visit your health care professional if something seems out of the ordinary.
Another common concern is diaper leaks. Whats the point of the diaper, after all, if its not dependable? When there are recurring leaks, its probably time to change diaper sizes. Often diapers are sold in sizes according to the baby’s weight. These weights on sizes will overlap each other by about five pounds, so you need to see how the diaper really does fit your baby, and adjust accordingly. Make sure it fits well around the leg, not being too tight and leaving strong marks, and also tight enough to hold. When solid waste comes out of the diaper, usually it means you need a bigger size. Fit the adhesive waist bands tighter around the waist, under the umbilical cord if within the first couple of weeks.
Don’t stress too much about the wearing diapers stage, you will have plenty of practice in the coming months!
