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Parenting is a time-consuming and overwhelming task, especially for first-time parents. There is so much to plan for and think through while juggling the challenges of pregnancy. And with so much going on, it is easy to write off or forget about diapers. Many soon-to-be mothers find it unnecessary to do their research on diapers as they assume there is not much to figure out. They assume that all diapers, irrespective of the brand, are all the same, which is not true. They do not think about the difference between daytime diapers and nighttime diapers or the occurrence of diaper leakage and how to deal with it. Diapers may seem like something that does not need much thought, but figuring out what type works for your baby and how to go about changing them can be as tricky as catering to any other basic need. But, there is no need to worry. Everything in parenthood is a learning curve, and diapers are no different.
Here are 6 things you should know about diapers:
1. Diaper Leakage Is Real
Dealing with diapers is not as easy as it is made out to be. For example, did you know that your baby needs larger overnight diapers to stop leakage from occurring? All the trouble you take to rock and sing your baby to sleep may be in vain if you don’t use the right kind of nighttime diaper to prevent your baby from waking up in the middle of the night after soiling themselves. Still, no matter the precautions taken to fasten the tabs on the diaper before bedtime, leakage continues to be a big problem. Diapers often leak up the back and through the front, making your baby uncomfortable. And before you know it, neither of you are getting any sleep.
2. Babies Move Around A Lot
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This might strike you as cute until you realize it is inconvenient and makes changing your baby’s diaper that much harder. Babies don’t stay still on the changing table. Infants are in constant motion and rarely lay still, and the changing table is no exception. In addition, your baby is constantly exploring and learning from their environment, which makes them want to investigate everything. This can make changing diapers particularly challenging and messy as they may try to grab for a piece of used tissue or even their poop. Most parents make clicking noises to distract their babies while they clean up. However, taking off a used diaper and putting on a new one is a skill that will take time and practice to perfect.
3. Diaper Blowouts Are Real
Sometimes, diapers explode, and there is nothing you can do but deal with it. However, if this happens often enough, you might want to consider changing diaper brands. These accidents are inevitable and have to be dealt with swiftly. Diaper blowouts are messy and unsanitary as poop and pee may get on your baby, their clothes, your clothes, and you. So learning to clean up quickly is important to keep both you and your baby healthy and safe.
4. Diaper Brands And Types Matter
Although not vastly different, some noticeable features change from one diaper brand to another. For example, some may be thicker or wider in size or made from different materials, even cloth. So, it is important to choose a brand that has features that work best for your baby and meets your demands. There is also a debate on whether using cloth diapers is better for them than disposable ones. But at the end of the day, it boils down to personal preference and which of the two is more convenient and suitable for your baby and you.
5. Diaper Rashes Are Normal
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Diaper rashes, although scary looking, are normal. However, they are red, bumpy, unpleasant, and sometimes painful, so you must check for them regularly. When your baby does get a rash, there is no need to panic. Simply use one of the several creams and ointments available, and your baby will be feeling okay in no time. Also, try not to clean your baby with wet wipes that dry out the skin excessively, and use a baby cream to keep them moisturized. This will lower your chances of having to deal with a diaper rash.
6. Your Baby May Not Like Diapers
Babies often go through a phase where they remove all their clothes, including their diapers. This often occurs during nighttime as the parent or caregiver is not there to monitor what they are up to all night. In addition, as your baby grows and their fingers become more dexterous and their ability to control their movements increases, they may take off their diapers whenever they can if they feel uncomfortable in them.
Researching everything you need to know about your baby is an unending and daunting task. It is okay to feel unprepared as long as you learn along the way. For example, figuring out the diaper situation is something you will have to learn sooner rather than later. But, don’t worry. The information above is a great starting point.
