Things you need to bathe and to change a baby - disposable nappy vs. cloth nappy

What you need for newborn baby: It can be easy to get confused about what you really need for your baby. You can always ask your midwife or health visitor for advice on what to buy, and you may be given a list of essentials at your antenatal classes or by your maternity service. There are some essentials that every new mother needs, as well as extras that you might want to think about. You may be able to borrow some items, and then pass them on later to another mother or keep them for a second child.

Nappies types  

Disposable nappies: Disposable nappies are convenient to use and are available from supermarkets and other retail outlets.

Cloth nappies   

Washable cloth nappies are cheaper than disposable nappies, even when you take into account the cost of washing them at home or getting them washed by a laundry service. They are more environmentally friendly and are easily laundered in a 60؛C wash. You can get shaped cloth nappies with Velcro or popper fastenings and waterproof wraps.

For cloth nappies, you will need:

• Nappy pins for nappies without Velcro or fasteners

• Nappy liners – either disposable or cloth, which you can wash and use again

• A bucket with a lid and nappy sterilizing powder or liquid for sterilizing nappies, and

• About four pairs of plastic pants that are either tie-on or elasticated. Tie-on ones will fit small babies better. Some cloth nappies have the waterproof wraps attached.

Nappy laundry services

Nappy laundry services deliver freshly laundered nappies to your home and take away the soiled ones to wash each week.

They supply everything you need – wraps, liners and storage bins.

Nappy changing bags    

To change nappies, you will need:

• Cotton wool. Always choose white. Rolls are usually cheaper than balls

• A changing mat

• Baby lotion or wipes

• Baby barrier cream to help prevent nappy rash, and

• A bag to carry all the nappy-changing equipment when you go out. A carrier bag will do but you can get special bags that include a changing mat.

Things you need to bathe a baby   

It is a personal choice how frequently you bathe your baby; a wash will often be enough to keep your baby clean and ensure they are comfortable. A warm bath may help your baby to sleep.

You will need:

• A baby bath or any large, clean bowl, such as a sink, as long as it’s not metal.

Remember to wrap a towel round the taps for safety

• Two towels, the softer the better. Keep them only for your baby’s use. There is no need for special baby towels, unless you want them

• unperfumed soap – although washing your baby with just water is fine.

The safest place to change a nappy is on a mat on the floor. If you use a higher surface, keep your hand on your baby at all times to stop them rolling off.