How Often Should You Change a Nappy?

change diaper

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Most expecting parents know that lots of diaper changes are in their near future. However, plenty of parents are still surprised to learn just how often their child needs a fresh diaper.

change diaper

While many nappies are designed to be highly absorbent, that doesn’t mean you can leave your newborn in a wet diaper. Keeping your child in a dirty diaper can lead to diaper rash, infections, chafing, and more. Plus, there’s a good chance that your baby won’t be too happy if she’s stuck in a dirty nappy.

Are you trying to learn how often should you change a nappy? Read on to find out how to tell when your baby needs a change.

How Often Should You Change a Nappy?

Disposable diapers need to be changed more often than you think, especially in the first few months. In fact, many babies go through about 3,000 diapers in the first twelve months!

Unfortunately, using fewer diapers to try to save money is not an option. Stocking up on newborn and infant sizes is crucial before the baby comes. Otherwise, you may find yourself taking a late-night trip to the convenience store!

Newborns go through approximately 8 to 12 diapers a day, so it’s best to keep your home well-stocked. Otherwise, delayed diaper changes can lead to crying fits, squirming, poor sleep, and a generally unhappy baby.

In those first few weeks, keeping your baby clean and happy feels like a full-time job, so having enough diapers available keeps your focus on healing and spending time with your child.

As you get to know your child, it will be easy to tell when she needs a diaper change. However, in the beginning, it can be tricky to discern your newborn’s needs. It is safe to assume that your baby will need a diaper change every 2 to 3 hours.

How Can You Tell When Baby Needs a Nappy Change?

If over two hours have passed and your baby has not expressed any discomfort, it may be worthwhile to check their diaper. Some babies have a patient temperament and will tolerate a dirty diaper longer than others. While a patient baby is a blessing, you may encounter more issues with diaper rash or infections if you wait for your baby to decide when she needs a change.

If your baby is fussing or she feels heavier when you lift her up, try checking her diaper first. If your baby has a diaper rash, you will need to change her more often to keep your newborn clean and dry. Using organic nappies can help prevent rashes and infections, so consider going organic to keep your child comfortable.

It’s best to check your baby for a diaper change after every feed, before putting her down for a nap, and after she wakes up. Your pediatrician will often ask you to keep track of how many wet and dirty diapers you change each day to see how your newborn is eating.

Keep Your Baby Feeling Her Best

So, how often should you change a nappy? We recommend as often as necessary to keep your baby healthy and happy. Soon enough, the days of diaper changes will be over, so cherish them while you can.

Now that you know when to change a diaper, it’s time to discover what else is ahead in the next few months. Check out our other articles to ensure you’re ready when the baby arrives.