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Get ready to change the nappy

Check your baby’s nappy often, and change a dirty nappy straight away. Before you change a nappy, make sure you have everything close and ready. This includes a clean disposable or cloth nappy, baby wipes or a washcloth, and water.

Lay your baby on the ground or flat surface. Make eye contact, talk, sing or give baby a toy. This helps your baby feel calm and happy.

Undo the nappy. Use the front of the nappy to wipe off any poo. Wipe from front to back. Fold the nappy into a tight ball.

Clean bottom and put on nappy

Gently clean your baby’s bottom using baby wipes or a damp wash cloth.

Gently lift your baby by the ankles to wipe the back of their bottom. Wipe from front to back to stop infections. Make sure your baby’s bottom is clean and dry.

Take a clean nappy, lift your baby, and put the nappy under them. Make sure the flaps go towards the front. Stick down each flap.

Clean up and watch for nappy rash

Put the dirty nappy in the bin straight away. Make sure your baby is safe before you go to the bin.

Wash your hands before changing the nappy and after getting rid of the nappy.

Sometimes babies get a rash from nappies. This is nappy rash. That’s why you need to change a dirty nappy straight away. If your baby gets nappy rash, see your local health centre.

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Raising Children Network is supported by the Australian Government. Member organisations are the Parenting Research Centre and the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute with The Royal Children’s Hospital Centre for Community Child Health.

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