How to Change a Nappy Safely, Step by Step

Changing a nappy removes urine and stool, helps keep your baby comfortable, and gives you a chance to notice whether the skin needs gentle care. Before you begin, choose a flat, secure changing surface or change your baby on the floor. Put everything you need within arm’s reach, and never step away while your baby is on a raised surface—even briefly.

What You’ll Need

A clean nappy in the right size
Baby wipes, or a soft cloth and warm water
A changing mat or clean towel to protect the surface
A clean outfit if a change of clothes is needed
A nappy disposal bag or a suitable bin
Optional: a small amount of barrier ointment, if you normally use it

Keep these items close before you place your baby down. If you use a changing table, check that it is stable and use its safety straps according to the instructions; straps do not replace your hand on the baby.

Step-by-Step

Prepare the area. Place the changing mat on a clean, flat surface and set out the wipes, fresh nappy, and disposal bag. Make sure the room is comfortably warm, but keep the baby away from heaters or other hot objects. If you are using a changing table, check that the supplies are reachable without turning away.
Wash your hands. Clean your hands with soap and water before changing if possible. If you cannot reach a sink first, use hand sanitizer and wash with soap and water afterward. Keep any sanitizer out of the baby’s reach.
Lay the baby down safely. Put your baby on their back on the prepared surface. Keep one hand on them whenever they are elevated. If they are on the floor, keep the area clear of small objects and other hazards. Talk to your baby as you work; a calm voice may help them stay settled.
Open the dirty nappy. Undo the tabs and fold them back so they do not stick to the baby. If the nappy contains stool, use its clean front section to wipe away what you can, moving from front to back. Fold the nappy under the baby with the soiled side contained. Do not pull a baby’s legs sharply or lift them by the feet; gently raise the hips by supporting the lower legs or roll the baby slightly to one side.
Clean the skin gently. Use a fresh wipe or a damp, soft cloth for each pass. For a baby with a vulva, wipe from front to back to avoid carrying stool toward the urinary opening. Clean between the skin folds gently, without scrubbing. For a baby with a penis, clean the outside and surrounding folds; do not forcibly pull back the foreskin. Clean the bottom and thighs where the nappy has touched.
Remove the dirty nappy. Once the skin is clean, slide the soiled nappy out and put it in a disposal bag or designated bin. Keep it away from the baby’s hands. If the baby has had a bowel movement, check that no stool remains in folds of skin before moving on.
Dry and check. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth or allow it to air-dry briefly. Avoid rubbing, which can irritate delicate skin. Check that the skin is clean and dry before putting on the fresh nappy. If you use barrier ointment, apply a thin layer as directed on its label; it is optional, not a substitute for changing a wet or soiled nappy.
Position the clean nappy. Slide the back half beneath the baby, with the tabs at about waist level. Bring the front up between the legs and over the tummy. For a newborn with a healing umbilical stump, fold the front edge down so it does not rub against or cover the stump, or use a nappy designed with a cutout.
Fasten and check the fit. Attach the tabs evenly so the nappy is secure but not tight. The waistband should sit comfortably at the waist, and the leg openings should lie flat without pinching. You should be able to fit a finger comfortably between the nappy and your baby’s body. Make sure clothing is not trapped inside the leg cuffs.
Finish safely. Dress your baby, then put them somewhere safe, such as their crib or another appropriate supervised space. Dispose of the nappy, clean the changing surface if it is soiled, and wash your hands with soap and water.

Common Mistakes

Turning away or reaching for supplies: Babies can roll unexpectedly. Prepare first and keep a hand on them whenever they are on a raised surface.
Wiping from back to front: This can carry stool toward the urinary opening. Wipe front to back, especially for babies with a vulva.
Fastening too tightly: A tight nappy can pinch or leave marks. Secure the tabs evenly and check that the fit is comfortable.
Leaving the skin damp: Trapped moisture can make the area uncomfortable. Pat dry gently before fastening a fresh nappy.
Pulling back the foreskin: Do not force it. Clean only what is visible on the outside.
Assuming a leak always means the nappy is too small: A twisted fit, tucked-in leg cuffs, or tabs fastened unevenly can also cause leaks. Check the fit before changing sizes.

Tips

Keep a small changing kit stocked so you can prepare before laying your baby down.
Change a wet or soiled nappy promptly, and check it regularly. A reliable schedule varies by baby and by how often they urinate or have a bowel movement.
For a wiggly baby, keep a safe, age-appropriate toy nearby, but do not let it distract you from supervision.
Use unscented wipes or plain water if your baby’s skin seems easily irritated. Stop using a product if it appears to bother the skin.
With disposable nappies, make sure the leg cuffs are pulled out after fastening. With cloth nappies, follow the manufacturer’s directions for fit and care.
At home, changing on the floor can reduce the risk of a fall from a raised surface, especially as your baby becomes more mobile.

Troubleshooting

The baby is crying or wriggling: Pause if needed, keep a secure hand on your baby, and speak calmly. If they are on a changing table and you need both hands, move them to a safe place first rather than stepping away.

The nappy leaks: Check that it is the correct size, centered, fastened evenly, and not twisted. Pull the leg cuffs outward and make sure clothing is not tucked into them. If leaks continue, try a different fit or size.

Stool is difficult to remove: Use fresh wipes or a damp cloth and clean gently in small sections. Do not scrub or use harsh household products on the skin. If you are concerned about a rash, broken skin, or another sign of illness or pain, contact your baby’s healthcare professional.

The umbilical area gets soiled: Clean around it gently with a clean, damp cloth and follow the care instructions provided by your baby’s healthcare professional. Avoid rubbing or covering the area with a tight nappy.

You run out of supplies: Keep the baby safely on the floor or in a crib while you get what is needed. Never leave them alone on a bed, table, or changing station.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change a nappy?

Check it regularly and change it when it is wet or soiled. Change a bowel-movement nappy promptly, and check the manufacturer’s guidance for any specific product instructions.

Should I wake a sleeping baby to change a nappy?

For a wet nappy, whether to wake a sleeping baby depends on the situation and your baby’s care instructions. Change a soiled nappy promptly, and ask your healthcare professional if you are unsure about your baby’s needs.

Do I need to use wipes every time?

No. A soft cloth with warm water can clean the skin. Use fresh wipes or cloth sections as needed and avoid rubbing.

How snug should a nappy be?

It should stay in place without pinching or leaving tight marks. Check that the tabs are even, the leg cuffs are open, and a finger can fit comfortably at the waistband.

Can I put cream on at every change?

Barrier ointment is optional. If you use one, follow its label and apply it to clean, dry skin; seek advice from a healthcare professional if you are concerned about the skin.

What should I do if the baby rolls during a change?

Keep a hand on the baby and move them to a safer position, such as the floor, if you need to reposition supplies. Never leave them unattended on an elevated surface.

Further reading: American Academy of Pediatrics. Details can change, so check the official page for anything that matters to you. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How we write an answer.