Enlarge this image

Some babies have very delicate skin and need changing as soon as they wet themselves, otherwise their skin becomes sore and red. Others can wait until before or after every feed to be changed.

All babies need changing as soon as possible when they've passed a stool (poo) in order to prevent nappy rash and stop them smelling.

Getting organised
Get everything you need in one place before you start. The best place to change a nappy is on a changing mat or towel on the floor, particularly if you have more than one baby. That way, if you need to see to another child for a moment, the baby can't fall. Sit down so you don’t hurt your back.

If you're using a changing table, keep an eye on your baby at all times. Don't walk away or turn your back. Always have a good supply of nappies. If you’re using cloth nappies it might take a while to get used to how they fold and fit. Pre-wash them to make them softer. Take care to choose the right size of nappy and cover for your baby’s weight.

You’ll need a supply of either cottonwool and warm water, or baby wipes. It’s also a good idea to have a spare set of clothes handy, especially in the first few weeks.

Getting started
If your baby’s nappy is dirty use the nappy to clean off most of the poo from your baby’s bottom. Then use the cottonwool and warm water (or baby lotion or baby wipes) to remove the rest and get your baby really clean.

Girls should be cleaned from front to back to avoid getting germs into the vagina. Boys should be cleaned around the testicles (balls) and penis, but there’s no need to pull back the foreskin. It’s just as important to clean carefully when you’re changing a wet nappy.

If you're using cloth nappies, put in a nappy liner then fasten the nappy around your baby. Adjust it to fit snugly round the waist and legs. If you’re using disposable nappies, take care not to get water or cream on the sticky tabs as they won’t stick if you do.

It can help to chat to your baby while you’re changing them. Pulling faces, smiling and laughing with your baby will help you bond and help their development.

Nappy hygiene
Put as much of the contents as you can down the toilet. If you’re using nappies with disposable liners the liner can be flushed away. Don’t flush the nappy as it can block the toilet.

Disposable nappies can be rolled up and resealed, using the tabs. Put them in a plastic bag kept only for nappies, then tie it up and put it in an outside bin. Washable cloth nappies can be machine washed at 60°C, or you could use a local nappy laundry service.

To avoid infection wash your hands after changing a nappy and before doing anything else.