When you're holding a newborn baby, even a simple diaper change can feel overwhelming. That's why we've put together the ultimate changing list—based on the most searched questions from parents and our experience with changing time and baby gear that works best in everyday life.
Changing time isn’t just about diapers and wipes. It’s about closeness, security, and small moments of eye contact and baby babble.
The Complete List for the Changing Area
A well-organized changing area makes everyday life easier. Here’s the full list for the changing table:
1. Changing Table
A stable changing table at a good working height saves your back. Many choose models with storage so diapers and care products are within reach. See our selection here
2. Changing Pad
A firm and stable changing pad with raised edges provides security during diaper changes.
Check out our selection of changing pads
3. Cloth Diapers (10–20 pcs)
Cloth diapers for the baby are indispensable—for spit-up, as liners, wiping, and during changing time. You might think that sounds like a lot—but it’s not.
Find your cloth diapers here
4. Diapers
Newborns use 8–12 diapers per day.
5. Wet Wipes or Washcloths
For newborns, lukewarm water and soft cloths are often recommended.
6. Baby Care Products
baby hairbrush, mild baby oil, and gentle care products are good to have ready.
See our care products for baby
7. Storage
Baskets or shelves make the changing area easy to manage.
See our lovely storage solutions here
What Should Be in the Diaper Bag?
Here's the simple packing list:
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3–5 diapers
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Foldable changing mat
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1–2 cloth diapers
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Wet wipes
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Extra onesie
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Change of clothes
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Pacifier
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Optional small blanket
An organized diaper bag provides peace of mind when on the go, choose a diaper bag with many compartments, so you can easily organize and find what you need.
Check out our diaper bags
Why So Many Cloth Diapers?
Most parents use between 4-8 cloth diapers daily. Therefore, it is recommended to have at least 10–20 cloth diapers in rotation.
Cloth diapers are used for:
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Burping
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Nursing
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Diaper changes
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Light swaddles
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Linings
- Sun shade
The more you have, the easier everyday life becomes. Find your cloth diapers here
The Complete Guide to Diaper Changing
How Do You Change a Diaper?
Changing a diaper can feel daunting the first few times—but it quickly becomes a natural routine. Here’s a calm and thorough walkthrough of how to change a newborn's diaper and why each step is important.
A diaper change typically takes 5–10 minutes.
1. Wash Your Hands
A baby’s skin and immune system are still developing. Clean hands reduce the risk of bacteria and irritation.
Wash your hands with soap and water—or use hand sanitizer if you're on the go. Make sure your hands are dry and warm before you touch the baby.
2. Place Baby on the Changing Pad
A stable and soft changing pad provides comfort and safety during diaper changes.
Place the baby in the center of the changing pad. Always keep one hand on the child—even if they cannot roll over yet. Even small babies can move surprisingly quickly.
Tip: Have everything ready before you start, so you don’t have to leave the changing table.
3. Open the Diaper and Gently Lift the Baby by the Ankles
By gently lifting the ankles, you can clean effectively without pulling on the baby’s hips or back.
Hold both ankles gently with one hand and lift the bottom slightly. Use the used diaper to remove most of the mess before wiping with a cloth or wipe.
Avoid lifting too high—a small movement is enough.
4. Wipe Front to Back
Especially for girls, it’s important to wipe front to back to avoid bacteria moving from the rectum to the urinary tract.
Use a soft washcloth with lukewarm water or mild wet wipes. Wipe gently—dab rather than rub.
For boys: Be sure to clean in the skin folds, but do not retract the foreskin.
5. Let the Skin Air Dry
Moisture is one of the main causes of diaper rash. Air helps the skin to dry and reduces irritation.
Let the baby lie without a diaper for 30–60 seconds. You can gently pat dry with a clean cloth diaper.
Small breaks with air can make a big difference for the skin.
6. Apply Zinc Cream or a Gentle Baby Oil if Needed
Zinc cream protects the skin from moisture and prevents diaper rash.
Apply a thin layer—the skin should still be able to breathe. Use cream only when needed, not necessarily at each diaper change.
Less is often more.
7. Close the New Diaper – Snug but Not Tight
A properly fitted diaper prevents leaks and ensures comfort.
Place the diaper’s back edge at the waist. Fold up the front and secure the tabs symmetrically. You should be able to fit a finger between the diaper and belly—that’s the right fit.
A too-tight diaper can leave marks and cause discomfort. A too-loose diaper can cause leaks.
How Often to Change a Newborn’s Diaper?
A newborn needs a diaper change 8–12 times a day, typically at each feeding and always after a bowel movement.
During the daytime, change the diaper every 2–3 hours.
How Long Can a Baby Wear a Diaper?
A wet diaper should be changed within 2–3 hours.
A soiled diaper should be changed immediately.
At night, you can often let the baby sleep if the diaper is only wet and the baby sleeps peacefully.
A Final Thought on Diaper Changing
If it’s your first time changing a diaper, it may feel a bit overwhelming. Maybe even a little intimidating. You want to do it right. You want to be careful. You don’t want to do anything wrong.
But trust us—you’ll master diaper changes faster than you think.
Within the first day, the movements will feel more natural. Within the first week, you’ll be doing it almost without thinking. And suddenly, it's just part of your rhythm—a little pause with eye contact, cooing, and closeness in the middle of the day.
There are no perfect diaper changes. There are secure parents who are practicing.
And you’re already doing it...
Dos and Don’ts for Diaper Changing
DO
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Change diapers frequently
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Use mild products
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Let the skin air dry
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Speak calmly to the baby
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Have everything ready before starting
DON’T
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Never leave the baby on the changing table
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Do not use perfumed products on a newborn
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Don't fasten the diaper too tightly
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Don't ignore persistent redness—consult your health visitor.
Make Changing Time Safe and Harmonious
Changing time for a baby is a recurring part of daily life. When the changing area is thoughtfully arranged, and you have the right changing equipment, it becomes a calm moment—not just a practical task.
At Lirum Larum Leg, we’ve accompanied many parents through those early months—and we know that diaper changing initially can feel like a small exam each time. But we also know how quickly it becomes a natural part of daily life. With the right changing equipment, a calm environment, and a bit of patience, you’ll find your own rhythm.
Congratulations on your little one.
