How Often Should I Change My Newborn’s Nappy?

Change your newborn’s nappy whenever they have done a poo, and check for wetness around every two to three hours during the day. Many newborns need about 8 to 12 nappy changes in 24 hours, although there is a wide range. Disposable nappies with a wetness indicator can make checking easier. You do not usually need to change a sleeping baby after every small wee if their skin is healthy and the nappy is absorbent. Change them promptly after a poo, if the nappy is very wet or leaking, or if they have nappy rash or broken skin. Feeding times are convenient opportunities to check, but follow your baby’s cues rather than a rigid schedule. When should I check my newborn’s nappy? In the early weeks, check your baby’s nappy before or after each feed and whenever they seem unsettled. Because newborns often feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, this naturally creates regular opportunities to check. A nappy may also need changing after a nap, before leaving home and before settling your baby for a longer sleep. Useful times to check include: Before or after each breastfeed or bottle feed As soon as you notice or suspect a poo When your baby wakes from a nap If the nappy feels heavy, looks full or is leaking If your baby seems uncomfortable or has irritated skin Before a longer sleep or journey Some babies dislike being changed when hungry. If the nappy contains only urine and is not leaking, you can feed first and change midway through or after the feed. If it contains poo, change it promptly, then offer the feed and comfort. Should I change a poo nappy immediately? Yes. Change a poo nappy as soon as reasonably possible, including overnight. Poo contains digestive enzymes that can irritate delicate skin, particularly when left in contact with it. Prompt changes are especially important if your baby has diarrhoea, nappy rash, sensitive skin or broken areas. Newborn poo can be frequent, and some breastfed babies poo during or shortly after most feeds. Others poo less often once feeding is established. Frequency alone varies widely; consistency, colour, feeding and your baby’s overall wellbeing provide more useful information. For more detail, see how often a newborn should poo . Do I need to change a wet nappy straight away? A wet nappy does not always require an immediate change. Modern disposable nappies draw moisture away from the skin, so a small amount of urine can usuall…