WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Diapering Best Practices, Explained

Newborn
Arrival of the baby
Navigating Diapering: A Parent's Guide
Diapering is a fundamental aspect of caring for your baby, involving daily management from birth until around age 3.
With an average use of six to ten diapers daily, choosing between cloth and disposable options is a significant decision for parents.
Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
Choosing Between Cloth and Disposable Diapers
Cloth Diapers:
  • Advantages: Cost-effective over time, chemical-free, environmentally friendly.
  • Disadvantages: Requires initial investment, more labor-intensive due to washing.
  • Note: Some services offer cloth diaper rental and cleaning, easing the initial burden.
Biodegradable Disposable Diapers:
  • Advantages: Healthier for baby and better for the environment than traditional disposables.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive, not universally available.
  • Note: Not 100% biodegradable; dispose of as regular waste.
Non-Biodegradable Disposable Diapers:
  • Advantages: Widely available, often more affordable.
  • Disadvantages: Environmental impact, potential health concerns due to chemicals.
Mastering the Diapering Technique
Diapering efficiently becomes second nature with practice:
  • Use a waist-level changing table to ease back strain.
  • Always have essentials within reach to keep the baby supervised.
  • Clean the baby from front to back to avoid infection, especially under running water if possible.
  • Securely fasten the diaper for a snug fit while ensuring comfort.
Addressing Diapering Challenges
  • Leaky Diapers: May require outfit changes; ensure the diaper is the right size and properly fastened.
  • Diaper Rash: Prevention is key. Change diapers frequently, ensure thorough drying, and consider switching diaper brands if rashes persist.
  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: For persistent rashes or any signs of yeast infection, seek medical advice.
Embracing Diapering in Parenthood
Diapering is more than just a task; it's a part of the parenting journey.
By adopting effective techniques, being attentive to your baby's needs, and maintaining patience, you’ll find diapering to be a rewarding aspect of caring for your newborn.
Remember, each baby is different, requiring a flexible approach to their care.
Julia Aoun
Pediatrician
A
Angie
3 Oct 2023

Has anyone clothed diapered? I'm debating on what's more beneficial and safe. I know cloth diapering is more environmentally and healthy. But I know it's a hassel to clean/upkeep. I've read so many horror stories of diapers not being safe or babies tend to be sensitive. I'm just overwhelmed on what to do and close to my due date, I want to be prepared 😅

Newborn Arrival of the baby
2 comments
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Ceci
I was dead set on doing cloth diapers throughout all my last pregnancy I bought alot of super cute ones up until the baby came and I hated how they looked so bulky under his clothes I hated how my baby looked in his cute little clothes because the cloth diapers would always look all bunched up under I tried them for a month and then I quit and went to disposable diapers lol.......
27 Mar 2024

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Ashley Nichole sue
I plan on doing both, if I'm home I plan on doing cloth because I am able to just throw them in the washer and save money but if I'm out and about or at someone else's house I will use regular diapers but hypoallergenic because my first two babies were so sensitive to certain brands.
27 Mar 2024

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