Diapering Baby Checklist

by Brenda Stokes

Diapering Essentials

Diaper pail A good diaper pail is an absolute necessity. Those dirty diapers have to go somewhere, whether you choose to use cloth or disposable. Be sure your pail has a deodorizer to keep diaper smells from drifting across your entire house.
Disposable diapers If you choose to go with disposable diapers, you will of course need lots of them! Expect to go through 80 diapers in a single week. It may cost a lot, but if you don't want to wash diapers or are simply too busy, you'll save time with disposables.
Wipes Well, the diaper is off, but now what? You will need wipes to keep your baby's bottom nice and clean. There are many different types of wipes, including scented, unscented, with aloe, or without.
Changing pad A changing pad is a necessity when it comes to properly diapering your baby. Your little one needs a comfy place to lie while you change him. You can also buy a changing pad that is contoured so there's no risk of Baby falling off of the table.
Changing pad cover (2) Changing pad covers will come in extremely handy when you're changing diapers several times a day as they can easily become soiled. A changing pad cover is made of easy-to-clean material that can be wiped down, sanitized, or even washed.
Table-top changer or diapering station You'll need a stable surface to change Baby's diaper. Look for a dresser unit with a changing table-top area or purchase a separate diapering station.
Diaper rash cream It's always a good idea to have diaper rash cream on hand to beat those nasty rashes right when they start. The combination of diaper rash cream, fresh air, and frequent diaper changes will get rid of that rash in no time.
For cloth diapers Pre-folded cloth diapers (3-4 dozen to start)
If you opt to go the cloth diaper route, you can buy a bunch to start and then replace them as needed. Pre-folded cloth diapers are easy to use, soft on Baby's bottom, and washable. Just use and wash and you're good to go.
Diaper wraps (5-10 newborn size) Cloth diapers can be a bit leaky. That's why diaper wraps are an essential item for a cloth diaper-using family. They come in all sorts of bright colors and designs and are also washable. You're exposed to a whole new variety when in the realm of the cloth diaper. Why not dress up your baby's bottom bit?

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