Nappy change list
In hospital
At home
birthTIPS
Changing a nappy involves more than just a new replacement! This is particularly so if choosing traditional
flat cloth nappies. The following information explains the various 'tools of the trade' you may require.
Water, creams and lotions
Baby wipes
Pins and fasteners
Covers
Nappy liners
Water, creams and lotions. Once you have decided on the type of nappy you will use, you will then need to think about what you will clean your baby's bottom with. There are many nappy wipes and brands of creams on the market for cleaning, moisturising and protecting a baby's bottom. Choosing one can be overwhelming and sometimes a costly event. Bear in mind that your newborn baby's skin is quite sensitive and is now suddenly being subjected to a range of chemicals and solutions. In general the rule of less is best is a good one.
Most caregivers will advocate a container of warm water and cotton balls or small, towelling washers (or flannels) to clean a baby's bottom with. If cream is desired, then Sorbelene and glycerine is an inexpensive and effective cream for cleaning and moisturising a newborn baby's skin. (It is also an ideal cleansing replacement for soaps when
bathing). Dermatologists will often recommend Sorbelene and glycerine as the type of cream most compatible with human skin (and it happens to be a large component of many expensive adult and baby creams on the market).
Sorbelene and glycerine cream is easily obtained at supermarkets or chemists and comes in either a thickened ointment-like consistency in tubs, or a thinner lotion in pump packs. In general though, creams are not absolutely necessary to change a baby's nappy, unless your baby has a
nappy rash, and it is best to avoid creams with strong perfumes.
Baby wipes. Commercial baby wipes can tend to contain many chemicals and compounds that may irritate a newborn baby's bottom, especially if used for every nappy change.