Nappy Time Check List

Check List

• Choose between disposable nappies and reusable nappies.

• Disposable nappies are convenient and easy to use, but are not very environmentally friendly. They come in a variety of sizes to suit your baby’s weight or age. They are also very absorbent and help keep your baby’s skin dry.  Although there are now biodegradable and chemical free disposable nappies, the majority still contain man-made chemicals which could affect your baby’s skin.

• Reusable nappies come in a variety of light weight fabrics and are as easy to use these days as disposable nappies. They are less expensive than disposable nappies in the long run and are much kinder to the environment. Fewer raw materials are used during the manufacturing process and your baby will have soft, natural fibres next to their skin.

• You may also need a nappy bucket, nappy liners and over pants, depending on the type of reusable nappies you buy.

• Change bags are perfect for parents at home or on the go. At home change bags help keep everything in one place or when you’re heading out, you can just pick your bag up as you leave the house. No last minute packing!

• Keep your bag well stocked so you’re ready for any situation. In your change bag it’s a good idea to keep a foldaway change mat, nappies, wipes, barrier cream, water and snacks, depending on the age of your child.

• Also if you’re bottle feeding, you’ll need a container of pre-measured formula to suit your child for one or two feeds, a sterilized bottle with the correct amount of water in it to the amount of formula that’s required.

• A change of clothes and bibs should also be included, especially for babies and younger kids.  If they’re going to get messy, it’ll be when you’re out!

• Whilst you’re at home a padded mat is perfect for laying your baby on when you change them. Make sure it has a wipe clean surface for all those little accidents!

• When you’re out, a foldaway change mat is ideal. If you can find one that is wipe clean on one side and fabric on the other, you’ll not only have a change mat, you’ll have an impromptu play mat too.

• A water spray or bowl of water and a thin flannel are best for cleaning bottoms.

• Wipes are convenient, but can be harsh and shouldn’t really be used in the first 6 weeks. 

• Cotton wool can be used too, just make sure you don’t leave any strands behind.

• Barrier creams help protect the skin on your baby’s bottom and can also help to soothe nappy rash.

• There’s no need to use it all the time, but it’s definitely worth having to hand in the event their bottom becomes sore.

• It’s also a good idea to keep a small tube of barrier cream in your change bag for when you’re out and about.

• Nappy rash
• 9 good reasons to use reusable nappies
• Baby poo guide