Just like tummy time, naps and mealtimes - nappy-free time can become a daily habit or ritual quite easily.
Changing a babies nappy is pretty much day one of parenting 101. All babies require you to change their nappy in one form or another. Whether you're using disposable nappies, cloth nappies or you're in the middle of the jungle using a large leaf - it requires some kind of ritual. Ensuring that your baby is hygienic and comfortable in this department is very important.
There are a couple of basic practices which your healthcare provider may touch on during antenatal visits. If you attend a parenting preparation course it may come up also. Some of these things include
- Ensure that you are using a nappy that correctly fits your baby. Otherwise it will leak or make your baby feel uncomfortable.
- Dispose of nappies in an appropriate way. You can't recycle a soiled nappy. This is why many people choose to use cloth nappies.
- Change your babies nappy often. Many maternity hospitals will recommend you change them after every single feed.
- Never leave your child unattended on a changing station or surface to ensure safety.
- Give your baby nappy free time as often as possible.
Nappy-free time is something that is often recommended for a number of reasons. The main reason is to avoid nappy rash and to ensure that air circulates around that part of your babies body. According to the HSE Your baby’s skin needs to be clean and dry to help prevent nappy rash.
In some homes nappy-free time is a daily occurrence. It might happen before bath time or after the first nappy change of the day. Many parents really consider it to make a huge difference to their babies skin and them avoiding painful nappy rash. Nappy rash can vary in severity but it can lead to blisters that bleed and become inflamed and sting your child when they urinate as urine is acidic in nature. Trying to avoid nappy-rash is always a good idea.
While nappy-free time is not essential it certainly causes no harm. You might want to lay down a towel or something to protect surfaces from the very strong possibility that your child will urinate while they are enjoying nappy free time. This is the reason why some parents avoid it completely.
Just like tummy time, naps and mealtimes nappy-free time can become a daily habit or ritual quite easily. It could make all the difference.