The art of changing a diaper isn’t necessarily complicated. Still, you may be wondering what the best way to go about it is. Try not to pay too much attention to the flood of well-meant advice that friends and family will surely offer; instead, find the method that works best for you. If you’re wondering how to change a baby, this guide can be a valuable tool—especially during the first few months with your little adventurer.

Étape 1 : préparer le lieu du change

To change your baby properly, you need a suitable place. You can lay them comfortably on a changing mat placed on a changing table or a dresser. Important: even if your baby isn’t moving much yet, never leave them unattended. From a very young age, infants try out all kinds of acrobatics on the changing table and can fall if you take your eyes off them for even a second. The changing area should be protected from drafts and direct sunlight. A heating lamp with an automatic shut-off can provide a comfortable temperature within a few minutes.

Étape 2 : réunir tout le nécessaire pour changer son bébé

Nothing is more frustrating than running out of diapers or wipes once you’ve already undressed your little one. To avoid this, restock the compartments of your changing table regularly. You should always have enough diapers, spare clothes, water, disposable wipes, and a towel. It’s also a good idea to keep warm water in a thermos, and you may want to have diaper cream and a thermometer for fever nearby. To entertain your little adventurer and help them stay calm, rattles, musical plush toys, or a touch-and-feel book can be great allies on the changing table. Of course, be careful not to leave sharp or heavy objects—or anything they could swallow—within reach.

Étape 3 : les vêtements qui facilitent le change de bébé

When buying first-age clothing, you’ll inevitably be drawn to some adorable styles. But it’s important to keep practicality in mind: in addition to being cute—with patterns, ruffles, and sweet prints—baby clothes should be easy to put on and take off. Snap-button bodysuits that open and close are perfect for changing your baby, especially during the first few months, because they help you avoid leaving your little one naked for too long. You’ll also likely appreciate snap-button pants and rompers, as well as little dresses that can simply be pulled up during a diaper change. Pull-over bodysuits and T-shirts, however, aren’t the most practical. With this type of clothing, you risk transferring the contents of a full diaper onto your child’s back—or even their hair.

Étape 4 : bien nettoyer après avoir changé bébé

The skin in contact with the diaper is particularly sensitive. For that reason, always choose fragrance-free wipes. When changing your little one’s diaper, remove any stool and urine completely and carefully. You might be surprised by how many small folds can hide residue, especially in little girls. Never spread a little girl’s labia forcefully; instead, wash gently with a soft cloth. The same applies to little boys’ foreskin: you don’t need to retract it for cleaning. During regular visits, your pediatrician will check that the foreskin is mobile and can give you helpful advice—just like your midwife—on how to clean the most sensitive areas of your infant’s body thoroughly, especially after a diaper change. Always clean your baby’s bottom from front to back to prevent bacteria from spreading and potentially causing infections in the genital area.

Étape 5 : manipuler correctement bébé

Of course, your newborn isn’t made of sugar—and may even be capable of the most surprising contortions! Still, you should lift their bottom gently and carefully during diaper changes. By holding your baby at the hips, you can comfortably roll them onto their side. The prone position can also be useful for washing their little bottom. This way, you can easily reach all the areas that need cleaning with a washcloth, a damp towel, or a wipe. Once comfortably settled, your baby can practice lifting their head and strengthening their back while you wash them. Their ability to lift their head may surprise you!

Étape 6 : sécher les fesses de bébé et appliquer de la crème

After changing your baby, it’s essential to dry their little bottom thoroughly before putting on a new diaper to help prevent irritation. In summer, or when the heating lamp is on, you can let them wiggle for a few extra moments before dressing them again, so the warm air can finish drying their skin. If your baby is still very small or if it’s cold, gently pat their skin dry with a soft towel. Most doctors and midwives strongly advise against using a hairdryer to dry an infant’s bottom. The hot air could cause burns, and an electric shock could occur if your baby urinates. If you apply cream, remember that less is sometimes more. It’s far more important to dry your baby’s bottom carefully than to constantly cover it with cream. Diaper rash cream is useful to help speed up the healing process when irritation occurs. Normally, it’s enough to apply a thin layer of baby cream occasionally. are highly recommended for newborns; ultra-soft, they are free of dyes and fragrances.

Étape 7 : ajuster correctement la couche de bébé

To put on a new diaper, gently lift your baby’s bottom and slide half of the diaper underneath them. Then bring the other half up between their legs, fold it over their tummy, and close the diaper with the adhesive tabs on the sides. Be careful not to lift your child by the legs, as this isn’t good for their hips. The edges of the diaper should fit snugly against the body without being too tight. Make sure you can easily slide one or two fingers between the diaper and their little tummy at the waist. If you can, the diaper is perfectly in place. For newborns whose umbilical cord hasn’t fully healed yet, fold down the top edge of the diaper so it doesn’t touch the navel.

The LILLYDOO beds are ultra-comfortable, and pretty designs are available in 7 different sizes. Wonderfully flexible, they make changing easier and fit your little adventurer’s body shape perfectly.

Étape 8 : Rhabiller son bébé rapidement

Have you removed the old diaper, cleaned your newborn, and put on a clean one? Then it’s time to dress your baby before they get cold. Even if, in the first days, changing feels like it takes forever—and you feel like you’re only breastfeeding and changing diapers—try to enjoy it as a precious moment of connection with your child. Exchange tender looks, talk to them, and hum a gentle tune. If your baby responds with a smile and a little sound in their very clean diaper, take it as a compliment: they clearly can’t do without your attention!