So here’s the thing diapering is not the most glamorous of jobs with your newborn, but it is essential to their health and well-being. Further, it’s an opportunity to connect with the baby in a special way and like bath time, can be enjoyable.

Whether you choose cloth or disposable diapers you are looking at a lot of changes. On average, most babies need changing about 10 times a day and sometimes more. So if you do some quick math you are talking a lot of opportunities to connecting with baby.

Here are a few quick tips to help you and all those who will be changing baby.

• Change baby’s diaper frequently and as soon as possible after bowel movements.
• Set up a permanent diaper changing station so everything will be at hand and it also will minimize the spread of germs. You may also want to consider a couple of stations around the home to make it convenient for you or others to diaper easily.
• Ointments for any rashes are the way to go. Don’t use baby powder of any kind. Rashes happen but keep a close eye on them.
• Wiping front to back on baby girls is best practice to prevent urinary tract infections.
• Point your baby boy’s penis downward in the diaper to prevent leaks around the waistline.
• If you use and wash your own cloth diapers, be sure to use dye and fragrance-free detergents. If you are using a diaper service, understand their process for washing diapers.
• Attend your baby on the changing table at all times. If you have someone to help you they can go get supplies. If not, take your baby with you if you need to move in the middle of a change.
• Avoid wipes that are perfumed which introduces chemicals that can irritate your baby’s skin.
• When diapering after a bath or after cleaning, allow time for baby’s skin to dry. If you trap moisture in the diaper this could cause or inflame a rash.
• You’ll want the diaper tight enough to stay on the baby but you also want to leave a little breathing room. So snug, but not tight is a good rule of thumb.
• Take this time with the baby to talk or sing. Make this time with them enjoyable.

Soon you’ll be a pro at diapering and can help others – friends and family members – to become pros as well. Diapering is unavoidable and necessary, so make this time as enjoyable as you can.