Helpful tips for new parents: Ensure every diaper change is easy

Having a baby is one of the most exciting, yet stressful times of one’s life. And one of the more daunting aspects of this experience for many new parents is changing diapers.
Even if you’ve changed a diaper before, you’ll now be doing this more times than you’ll care to count! Here are some tips to help ensure every diaper change is an easy experience for both parents and babies.
• Get stocked: Beyond your official changing station and your diaper bag, prepare yourself for quicker clean-ups wherever you are in the house by storing diapers, a portable changing pad and wipes in multiple rooms, as well as maintaining an emergency supply kit in your car. Visit grandma and grandpa a lot? If possible, make life a bit easier by keeping a small supply of these essentials at the homes of friends and family you see the most.
• Avoid diaper rash: Many parents wait until there is a problem to kick rash and irritation. However, diaper rash cream can be an effective preventive measure when applied correctly.
To help your baby avoid the discomfort that comes with diaper rash, get in the routine of applying a cream with every diaper change, directly on baby’s skin and also right on the diaper itself. This helps create an additional barrier between the diaper and baby’s skin.
If your baby has diaper rash, you want a solution that works as soon as possible.
• Be prepared: Stick some extra plastic bags in your diaper bag. They are handy for storing dirty diapers on-the-go or dirty clothes that didn’t survive a dreaded diaper blowout.
• Reduce odour: New diaper pail designs can help reduce odours and the spread of germs. Look for hands-free options with tight-fitting lids. Metal may be a better bet over plastic, as it is less likely to be porous. And of course, be sure to take out the trash often!
• Keep things sanitary: Wash your hands before and after you change your baby’s diaper. You are about to get your hands dirty again, but for your baby’s health and safety, it’s important not to skip that first step. For easy clean-up, wipe off excess diaper rash cream with a baby wipe before washing hands with water.
• Make it fun: Keep baby distracted with chit chat and songs. You may even want to stock your dedicated changing area with a few rattles or other washable toys.