How Often Should I Change My Baby’s Nappy?

The number one game played at any baby shower is the, “How fast can you change the baby’s nappy game.” The doll is there, the fake poop is there and it's all fun and games until the real baby arrives and you are changing nappies in the dead of night and no one is laughing. Everyone knows that changing nappies is part of the deal when you become a parent. And, as with everything else in parenting, you will learn as you go, which you will. With all this talk of nappy changing, you are bound to have questions and we have the answers for you. Further along, you will find a helpful size guide chart that we put together for you. This will help you estimate just how many nappies you will need at each age and some very important FAQs! But before we tackle those question there are a few important things to note.

Important Nappy Facts For New Moms

If you are embarking on the nappy changing journey for the first time, here are a few general facts to keep in mind:

1. On average, newborns go through about eight-twelve nappies per day, but it's important to remember that each baby is different.
2. Nappy sizes are based on weight, not age as each baby grows at a different rate.
3. Nappy demands will change as your baby grows. Your baby will need the most nappies during the newborn stage. By the time they reach potty training age, they may only need about five nappies a day.
4. Ideally, at that age, you would want to use pull-ups as these are best for potty training.

How Do Drypers Nappy Sizes Work?

We put together a nappy handy size chart to help you find the perfect fit for your baby. You can also download the chart directly here.

6 Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Your Baby's Nappy

1.  How often should I change my baby’s nappy?

Babies urinate about 20 times a day for the first few months of their lives. It would be extremely expensive and exhausting if you had to change your baby’s nappy each time they wet their nappy.  Aim to change their nappy every 2 to 3 hours.

2.   Should I change my baby's nappy after every poop?

The answer is a resounding yes! All babies regardless of their age need to be changed immediately when they have pooped, but your baby will most likely let you know.

3. How long can my baby stay in a wet nappy?

You really don’t need to change your baby's nappy immediately after every wee. But, also, your baby shouldn’t be left for too long in a soaked nappy. The more contact your baby’s skin has with urine, the more likely they are to develop a skin irritation which could eventually lead to nappy rash. There’s no need to panic if you’re at the shops and your baby’s nappy is wet. You can change the nappy when you get home. But, if you’re going to be out for hours, it might be wise to find a suitable changing spot.

4. Do you change a nappy before or after a feed?

If your baby is awake for a feeding, there are two good times to change their nappy. Change your baby before switching breasts or halfway through the bottle. This usually wakes babies up enough to get them to take a full feeding. If that wakes your baby too much, change their nappy first, and then feed them. If you change the nappy after you feed your baby, you risk completely waking them.

5. Should I change a dirty nappy if my baby is sleeping?

Luckily, the answer is simple. Unless your baby is extremely wet or has pooped, you can let them sleep. There’s no need to wake your baby every time they wet their nappy. Many of today’s nappies are so absorbent that your baby may be able to sleep through the night. When they wake up on their own, or you need to wake them for a feeding, you’ll have a chance to put on a clean nappy, but until then, you can rest!

6. How do you know when to move up a nappy size?

If you wondering when to move up a nappy size, there are a few telltale signs that your baby is ready. if you expeiencing any of teh below, it might be time to move to the next size u for your baby.

1. The side tabs of the nappy pop open
2. The leg bands feel tight
3. The waistband feels tight (you should be able to fit two fingers underneath it)
4. There’s irritation or red marks around their waist or legs
5. It’s hard to put the nappy on
6. It doesn’t cover their bum fully
7. The nappy leaks repeatedly
8. Your baby seems uncomfortable in the nappy

The Bottom Line

Most babies will go through roughly 3,500 nappies in their first year alone! You want to make sure that the nappy you use for your baby is made from only the best quality materials, and Drypers Wee Wee Dry nappies offer just that. You can be rest assured your baby is happy, comfortable and dry.

Have Any Nappy Changing Secrets To Share With New Moms?

We'd love to hear from you! If you have any nappy chnaginging tips and tricks to share with new moms and dads, please comment below so we can all learn together.

Recommended Articles:

To help you on your journey, we recommend the following articles relating to baby care:

• The New Moms Guide to Newborn Navel Care
• 11 Signs Your Baby Is Ready To Go Up a Nappy Size
• Common Questions New Moms Are Too Afraid To Ask
• Baby Poo Colours – What’s Normal? And What’s Not?
• How To Stay Pee Free When Changing Your Baby Boy’s Nappy