Diapering

What to Know About Baby and Children's Diapering

On average, a baby needs changing every two to three hours or so. However, it is important to keep an eye on your baby's diapers to ensure that they are not too wet or soiled. If you wait too long to change a diaper, your baby may develop a rash. We have the supplies you need to make the experience a little easier.

Items to consider having on hand to make changes less stressful:

• Baby & Youth Pull-ups- Ultra-absorbent core locks away wetness to help prevent leaks and help keep skin dry. Helpful for potty training.
• Baby Diapers- Designed to keep your baby comfortable and dry all day and night.
• Baby Wipes- Soft and convenient for a variety of cleanup jobs during diaper changing time, feeding time or playtime.
• Diaper Creams & Ointments- Protects skin from wetness and irritation.
• Changing Pads- Protects baby from surfaces, as well as it protects surfaces from diaper leaks.
• Travel, Diaper Bags & Accessories- Storage for frequently used nursing and changing tools.

How to Choose Baby Diapers:

There are many factors to consider when choosing a baby diaper such as size, absorbency, and fit. However, the most important factor is finding a diaper that will keep your baby comfortable and dry – a win for both caregiver and baby.

• Size - When it comes to baby diapers, sizes are listed in pounds. Each baby diaper brand has a different size range, which you can find in the Size Guide tab. That said, sometimes the weight ranges can overlap and it can be tricky to decide. If your baby is in an overlapping weight range, we recommend:

  • Ensuring the waistband is just under your baby’s belly button
  • Ensuring leg holes don’t have any gaps (if they do, size down!)
  • Ensuring you can fit two fingers under the waistband (if you can’t, size up. If there’s a lot of space, size down).

• Absorbency - The majority of disposable diapers feature components in the padding that improve absorbency. You want to make sure the diaper you choose will be able to absorb all of your baby’s urine, without leaks.

• Skin Sensitivity - Sensitive diapers help to keep the baby's skin dry and comfortable, which can prevent diaper rash. Some brands, such as Cuties, have specifically designed diapers for sensitive skin that are hypoallergenic, lotion and fragrance free.

• Mobility - A baby's mobility level is important in choosing a diaper because a diaper that is too loose can fall off, and a diaper that is too tight can be uncomfortable and restrict movement. A good fit is important to prevent leaks and to ensure that the diaper stays in place.

FAQ's:

How many diapers does a baby need in a day?

For newborns, 10-12 disposable diapers in a day is a fair estimation. However, as they get older and needs for diapering changes, the estimate range decreases to 6-8 diapers a day.

What is the difference between daytime and nighttime diapers?

Regular diapers, sometimes known as daytime diapers, are the most widely available kind. These diapers are made to hold onto and absorb urine and feces, however, they give up some absorbency to enable babies ease for crawling or walking.

Overnight diapers add a bulk between the baby's legs that makes mobility a little bit more challenging. That said, they are more cushioned and layered for better absorbency. Since these diapers are specially to stop leaks in the night, they frequently have the capacity to hold 20 to 25 percent more fluid, which can keep your infant dry for up to 12 hours.

When should I use pull ups instead of diapers?

Parents usually switch to pull-ups around potty training age, which generally is around age 2. When your child begins to understand how to use the potty, changing from diapers to pull-ups can help give them a sense of independence.

Sometimes parents use pull-ups once their child is able to fit into them.

What is the difference between pull-ups and diapers?

Perhaps the most obvious difference is that diapers are meant to be worn by infants and toddlers, while pull ups are meant for older children who are potty training.

• Diapers are generally more absorbent than pull ups, since they are designed to hold more urine and feces. This is important for infants and toddlers who are not yet potty trained and may not be able to control their bladder or bowel movements.
• Diapers have tabs that stick for securing a fit, or pulled apart for removal.
• Pull ups have an elastic band that secures around the waist and gives a look/feel like underwear. As the name suggests, you “pull up” to wear or push down for removal.

How can I treat my baby’s rash?

If your baby has a rash, you can try a few things at home to help clear it up. Start by washing the area with mild, unscented soap and cool water. If the rash is itchy, you can put a cool, wet cloth on the area to help relieve the itch. You can also try using a mild, unscented lotion on the area. If the rash does not improve after a few days, or if it gets worse, it’s probably time to call your pediatrician.

What is the point of a changing pad?

A changing pad protects baby from dirty surfaces (think public restroom changes) as well as it protects surfaces from diaper leaks.

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