How to choose and use a newborn diaper

Choosing and using diapers for newborns is a crucial part of baby care. Diapers are essential daily items, but the selection, usage, and cleaning must be done carefully to ensure comfort and health. It's best to use soft, breathable, and highly absorbent materials such as old cotton cloth, bed sheets, or clean clothes. New cotton can also be used after washing and rubbing it thoroughly to soften it. The color of the diaper should be light—white, pale yellow, or soft pink—avoiding dark shades like blue, purple, or deep red, which may irritate the baby’s sensitive skin. Diapers shouldn’t be too thick or too long, as this could cause discomfort or even affect the baby’s leg development if left in place for too long. It’s recommended to prepare diapers before the baby is born, and they should be washed, sterilized, and dried in the sun before use. When selecting diapers, prioritize those that are breathable and fit the baby’s body size properly. A newborn typically needs around 20 diapers per day, so it’s important to change them frequently. Always check the diaper after feeding or during waking hours. You can gently touch the baby’s thighs with your fingers to determine if it’s wet. Before changing the diaper, lay a large changing pad under the baby to prevent mess from soiling the bed or furniture. Gently lift the baby’s bottom with one hand while removing the soiled diaper. For boys, place a few layers of fabric in front of the genital area, and for girls, fold the diaper under the buttocks to increase absorption. Fold the front part of the diaper towards the baby’s stomach, ensuring it doesn’t extend beyond the navel. Secure the sides properly, making sure the waistband fits snugly but not too tight. After putting on the diaper, check that the waistband is secure enough to allow two fingers to fit comfortably between the diaper and the baby’s body. Also, make sure the sides around the thighs are elastic and not too loose, as this can lead to leaks. However, it’s important to avoid tying the diaper too tightly or too loosely. A tight diaper can restrict movement and even affect breathing, while a loose one may result in spills and contamination. After each change, clean the diaper promptly. Remove any stool with clean water first, then gently wipe with mild soap. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes, then rinse with boiling water. Once cooled, rinse again gently. Yellow stains can be easily removed with a bit of effort. If there’s no stool, just wash with water 2–3 times and dry properly. Proper diaper care not only keeps the baby comfortable but also helps prevent rashes and infections. Taking the time to choose the right materials and maintain hygiene ensures a healthier and happier baby.