How to Diaper a Newborn: Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Parents

Changing your newborn’s diaper for the first time can feel intimidating—but don’t worry! Every experienced parent started where you are now. With the right approach and a little practice, diapering your baby will become second nature.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to diaper a newborn step-by-step, explain what supplies you need, and share a few tips to make the process smoother and more comfortable for both you and your baby.

🧺 What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure everything is within reach:

• A clean diaper (we recommend Little Vee Diapers for sensitive newborn skin)
• Baby wipes or warm water and a soft cloth
• Diaper cream (optional, if needed)
• A safe changing surface (changing pad or clean towel)
• A change of clothes (just in case!)

🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Diaper a Newborn

1. Wash Your Hands

Always start by washing your hands to ensure a clean and safe diaper change. If you’re on the go, use hand sanitizer.

2. Lay Your Baby on a Safe Surface

Use a changing table with safety straps or a padded surface on the floor. Never leave your baby unattended—newborns can wiggle more than you expect!

3. Open the Dirty Diaper

Unfasten the tabs of the dirty diaper and gently lift your baby’s legs by holding the ankles together. If there’s a bowel movement, use the front of the diaper to wipe downward and remove most of the mess.

4. Clean the Diaper Area

Use baby wipes or a warm, damp cloth to gently clean from front to back. This is especially important for baby girls to prevent infection. Make sure you clean all the folds and creases.

Allow the area to air dry or pat dry with a soft cloth to avoid trapping moisture.

5. Apply Diaper Cream if Needed

If your baby shows signs of irritation or redness, apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream or barrier ointment. Use natural or fragrance-free products whenever possible.

6. Slide in a Clean Diaper

Place the back half of the clean diaper (the side with the tabs) under your baby’s bottom. Gently lower their legs and bring the front part up over the tummy.

For newborns with an umbilical cord stump, fold the top of the diaper down to keep it exposed and dry. Some diapers have a special cut-out for this.

7. Secure the Tabs

Pull the tabs around your baby’s waist and fasten them snugly—but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the diaper and your baby’s skin.

8. Dress and Clean Up

Put on a fresh onesie or sleeper, dispose of the used diaper and wipes properly, and wash your hands again.

💡 Extra Tips for First-Time Parents

• Change often: Newborns need frequent diaper changes—usually every 2 to 3 hours or immediately after a poop.
• Watch for leaks: If the diaper leaks often, it might be time to size up.
• Stay calm: Diapering gets easier with time. If your baby wiggles or cries, take a deep breath and keep going—they’ll settle with practice and routine.

🍼 Final Thoughts from Little Vee

Knowing how to diaper a newborn is one of the first practical skills you’ll master as a parent. With a little patience, the right supplies, and diapers made for comfort (like ours at Little Vee), you’ll feel confident in no time.

We’re here to support growing families across the USA with diapers designed for softness, safety, and peace of mind—because every change matters.