From our archive: this post was first published in 2018 under our Guest Blog byline, before we stopped accepting guest posts. The Mom Store reviewed it in October 2026 for accuracy and safety and updated parts of it. It shares one parent's experience and is not medical advice; for questions about your health or your baby's health, please talk to your doctor or paediatrician. Read our editorial policy.
Diapers are an essential for babies and more so, for the moms. But for new moms, they are often skeptical and unsure and constantly flooded with doubts on diapers – when do I start, what’s the right size for my baby, will it give rashes and so on. Well, I have had my share of dilemmas. And through lot of research, I got myself acquainted with all the information and sharing it with all you new moms to give you a head-start into this one crucial aspect of motherhood
When to start using Diaper for my Baby?
Diapers can be used from birth; choose a newborn size and change it often. Newborns wet often, so expect frequent changes in the first weeks. Newborn skin is delicate, so change the diaper as soon as it is wet or dirty and keep the area clean and dry. As an alternative, you can use old bed sheets to make some use-and-throw nappies for the first few weeks so that you don’t have to worry about cleaning dirty nappies. This will save you from lot of hard work.Diapers are an essential for babies and more so, for the moms. But for new moms, they are often skeptical and unsure and constantly flooded with doubts on diapers – when do I start, what’s the right size for my baby, will it give rashes and so on. Well, I have had my share of dilemmas. And through lot of research, I got myself acquainted with all the information and sharing it with all you new moms to give you a head-start into this one crucial aspect of motherhood
Which brand to choose for Baby Diapers?
Baby’s skin is very sensitive and all babies have different skin type. So the brand that suits one baby, may not suit other. So go for trial packs. Try few brands and see what suits your baby best. Then you can buy the jumbo pack (because it is cost saving).
How To choose Baby Diaper Size?
Choose the size that matches your baby's current weight on the pack, and move up when the fit gets tight or leaks start. Baby keeps growing in initial weeks. So he/she may outgrow the size (fit), hence wasting the packet.
Which Type of Diaper should I choose for my Baby?
I chose taped diapers for three months and switched to pant style after that. But again, whatever suits you best.
How often should I use diaper for my Baby?
I think it is okay for baby to be diaper free at home. It may seem a little tiring to change nappy again and again, especially during rainy season. But it takes only few minutes. I use diaper after massage and bath because babies usually take a long nap after that and you don’t want your baby’s sleep to get disturbed due to wetness. And I recommend overnight use of diapers for the same reason although baby may require a diaper change if he/she wakes up in middle of the night. Another must occasion for diaper is when you are stepping out of the house with your baby; and would suggest carrying 2 extra diapers and wet wipes as a change may be required any time. For the remaining time, I keep my baby diaper-free in a nappy and a pyjama. But if you choose to use a diaper for the whole day, then make sure to give at least 10 minutes of diaper free time in between change. Change the diaper whenever it is wet or dirty, and check it often, especially in the newborn weeks.
Some Watchouts
- Diaper-free time is must.
- Keep the diaper area clean and dry; a thin layer of barrier cream can help protect the skin.
- Diaper rash cream is used to avoid rashes, so don’t wait to use to after rash appears. Invest in a good rash cream and apply it always on baby’s delicate parts before wearing him/ her diaper.
- Keep a check on poop. If baby is left with potty filled diaper for long time, it harms the skin.
- Check leak proof extensions in diaper.
Taking care of diaper rash
even after taking all precautions, you may see diaper rash on your munchkin’s skin. Don’t worry or panic. Avoid diaper for a day or two. Keep the area clean and dry and use a barrier cream, and check with your paediatrician if the rash does not improve in a few days, blisters, or your baby has a fever.
Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers can also be used if you want to. These are machine washable. Absorbs 3-4 pee. Size can be easily adjusted and a safe option. They are a little heavy on pocket, but in long run the costing of both is almost same.
And that’s all from me on Diapers! Hope this helps.
