Karen offers six simple steps for changing a cloth nappy.
Isn’t it annoying how newborn babies don’t come with manuals! Luckily our cloth nappies do! If it is your first time using cloth adjustables, here are simple step-by-step directions on how to put the darn things on!
The invention of the adjustable birth to potty cloth nappy has made life so much easier and affordable hasn’t it?
Adjustable nappies fit babies as they grow by having an adjustment, usually on the rise (rise meaning the front of the nappy), that makes the nappy shorter or longer. This in combination with a generous waist that closes tighter or looser around the baby with snaps or touch fastener means the nappy can last through to potty training … and probably be used for the next baby too!
Step by step guide for changing a cloth nappy:
- Remove the nappy and, if the nappy cover (shell) is soiled, remove that too, like so:
- Place the clean nappy underneath your baby so that the back edge is in line with the baby’s waist (her tummy button). Ensure you place your cloth nappy insert on top of the shell and a liner (such as a bamboo nappy liner) lying on top of the insert). Like this:
- Pull the front half up to your baby’s tummy. If your baby is a boy, point his penis down so he’s less likely to wee over the top of the nappy.
- For newborns, position your baby so the back of the nappy is higher than the front. You don’t want the fabric to irritate the umbilical cord stump.
- Make sure that the part of the nappy between your baby’s legs is spread as wide as seems comfortable. Too much bunching in that area can cause chafing and discomfort. Make sure the nappy is snug but not too tight that it pinches:
- Your newborn will probably look a little like she is swimming in her nappy to start with. Please don’t worry, she grows very fast, so you will very soon appreciate the beauty of the adjustable modern cloth nappy. Adjust the hip snaps top and bottom, and sides securely. As mentioned it shouldn’t be too tight.
All changed! Remember that a newborn needs 10 to 12 changes per day, and older bubs and toddlers will need up to 10 changes.
More to Read: What to do on wash day? Here are some simple stink-minimal ways to get through it.
