Find a warm, clean, dry area to change your baby. In the beginning you’ll probably use a changing table or changing mat.

Make sure you have everything you need ready and close to hand, including a clean (newborn size) nappy and plenty of wipes. If you’re using disposables, have a plastic bag ready for disposal. If your baby has or is prone to nappy rash, keep some ointment to hand.

• Place your baby on a clean, flat surface.
• Open the nappy, but don’t remove it yet. If you have a boy cover the penis with a clean cloth so he doesn’t urinate all over himself and you.
• Wipe away excess stools from the genital area with the corner of the used nappy,
• Holding your baby by the ankles, lift his/her bottom up.
• Fold the dirty nappy in half under your baby, unsoiled side up.
• Use soft cotton balls or a wet cloth to clean your baby’s front thoroughly. For a girl, be sure to wipe from front to back to avoid infection.
• Swap a clean nappy for the dirty one. Use the tabs to see which way goes up.
• Avoid covering the umbilical cord as this can cause irritation. For a boy keep his penis pointed down.
• Fasten the nappy at both sides with the tapes, making sure it’s snug, but not so tight that it pinches his skin.
• Re-tape the soiled nappy around the contents, put it in a plastic bag, and discard it in the bin.
• Dress your baby, and wash your hands thoroughly.