Introduction

Every parent wants the best for their child, including giving them the best nappies. When it comes to choosing the right nappy, all parents are inevitably faced with choosing between eco-friendly and disposable nappies. The debate about the better choice is an age-old one and something all parents have struggled with. While disposable nappies are extremely convenient, they are a disaster for the environment. A much more sustainable solution would be to switch to eco-nappies instead. 

However, regardless of which nappy you go with, one thing that is common will be the struggle with nappy changing. Nappy changing is an integral part of the beautiful experience called parenthood, or so they say. Even though it is usually a straightforward process, sometimes you have the occasional blowout or fountain of well-aimed pee. So, in this blog, we will discuss some of the more useful eco-friendly nappy-changing hacks to go along with your eco-friendly nappies that can help avoid most issues.

The Environmental Impact of Nappies

Let’s start with the basics: why should you choose eco-nappies? Disposable nappies have been a game-changer for parents all over the world. However, this comes with a huge cost at the expense of the environment. A single disposable nappy can take up to 500 years to decompose, which is quite alarming. A glance at the numbers shows that millions of tonnes of non-biodegradable nappies end up in landfills every year. Understanding the scale of the impact is the first step towards change.

The easiest way to make a mark is to switch to eco-friendly alternatives. Making this switch won’t be easy, but it has a profound effect on the planet. Cloth diapers can be reused numerous times, making them a better alternative since they reduce the sheer volume of waste. Eco-nappies break down naturally. So, even though the volume remains the same, the impact is not as big. 

Parenting is a journey filled with love and joy, but it also tends to leave a considerable carbon footprint in its wake. Reducing this carbon footprint isn’t as hard as it seems. It just means you need to make some lifestyle changes, like switching to Little & Brave’s eco-nappies! It might take some getting used to, but, as we said previously, it is very similar to having disposable nappies. Even the nappy-changing issues remain the same! So, let’s take a look at how you can handle these issues with some of our hacks.

Convenience Hacks for Nappy Changing

Here are some of the ways you can make your nappy-changing life easier:

  • Organise a nappy-changing station:

Setting up a nappy-changing station is like creating a headquarters. It will serve as the place for you to handle everything, so it will need to be stocked as such. This includes nappies, wipes, diaper creams, baby clothes, and a designated nappy pail. Having everything within arm’s reach minimises the chances of a chaotic search mission in the middle of a change.

Your baby’s comfort is the top priority, so make the changing station a cosy haven. A changing pad with soft covers, perhaps a mobile with soothing music, and good lighting can transform this space into one that soothes your baby. Consider storage for easy access to supplies—a place for everything and everything in its place!

  • Pack an on-the-go nappy bag.

When it comes to changing nappies when on the go, the key is to have a well-organised nappy bag. Much like a nappy changing station, this bag should include nappies, wipes, a changing pad, a change of clothes, and a sealable bag for soiled items. The nappy bag has the ability to accumulate unnecessary items, which is why we recommend having a list of essentials and following the list. Keep it light by packing only the essentials and only the travel-sized versions. Opt for items that have multiple purposes. For example, a changing station can double up as storage or a diaper bag with multiple compartments can change your life 

  • Use these techniques to speed things up:

  • Streamline the process.

Preparation is key. Have everything ready within arm’s reach. Unfold and pre-position the new nappy, open the wipes, and have a spare outfit ready. 

Place a disposable changing pad or liner on top of the changing table. It will save you the time of having to clean up after a messy changing station since you can simply throw away the pad. 

Master the one-handed technique. Develop the skill of performing certain tasks with one hand, such as holding your baby’s legs up or managing the wipes. This leaves your other hand free to efficiently complete the change.

  • How can I deal with a wiggly baby?

Even if you have learned how to streamline the process, it could be ruined by a wiggly baby. So here are some ways you can manage one!

  • Engage with distracting toys. Keep a small stack of these toys close by so you can give them to your baby and distract them. It will take their attention away from what you are doing and will smooth the process considerably. 
  • Create a special diaper song! Singing a familiar tune can help distract your baby and turn the nappy change into an entertaining experience. 
  • Establish a routine. Babies thrive on them, and if you make a nappy change part of a routine, they will become more accustomed to the process and less likely to resist. 

Tips for Managing Nappy Changes in Different Settings

Now, while you may have found solutions to changing nappies blowout-free at home, it is a different situation when it comes to changing them outside. So we have listed some hacks to help you overcome the challenges of changing your baby’s nappy in the great outdoors:

  • Nappy Changing In Public Spaces:

  • Utilise public changing facilities:

Before diving into a nappy change in a public space, take a moment to scout for clean and well-maintained changing facilities. Some shopping malls, restaurants, and community centres offer dedicated spaces equipped with changing tables, disposal bins, and sometimes even baby wipes. 

In cases where public changing facilities are not available or fall short of your cleanliness standards, carry a portable changing mat. These mats are easy to clean and provide a barrier between your baby and a less-than-ideal surface. 

  • Strategies for discreet and efficient changes

When it comes to changing nappies, a quick and efficient changing routine is an absolute must. Lay out all the necessary items and practice changing them to reduce the time your baby spends exposed. 

Invest in a compact nappy-changing clutch that holds essentials like diapers, wipes, and a changing mat. This allows for discreet changes without the need to carry a bulky diaper bag. 

  • Nappy Changing While Travelling:

  • Pack the Essentials 

Streamline your nappy bag for travel. Pack only the necessities - a few nappies, wipes, a changing mat, a change of clothes, and a sealable bag for soiled items. Travel-sized products can further reduce the load. 

Understand that you might not have access to changing facilities as readily during travel. Plan for multiple changes by packing more diapers and wipes than you think you will need. 

  • Coping with Limited Resources

If you are going on a road trip, plan pit stops at family-friendly rest areas that are likely to have cleaner and more convenient changing facilities. In the absence of such fasciitis, you might have to get creative. 

The backseat of your car or a clean, flat surface with a changing mat can serve as a makeshift changing station. Be resourceful, but not at the expense of your baby’s hygiene. 

Incorporate diaper changes into planned breaks during your travel. This helps avoid last-minute panic and ensures you can manage changes in a more controlled environment. 

In case you want to know more about how to travel with a baby, check out our comprehensive guide on it!

Overcoming Challenges: Common Issues and Solutions

All the planning in the world cannot prepare you for emergencies, especially a blowout. However, you can attempt to anticipate them and create blanket solutions. Let’s take a look at how you can do that. 

  • Containing Nappy Blowouts

First things first - clean up the mess quickly. Lift your baby’s legs and remove the soiled nappy. Have a clean nappy ready to go. In times like these, wipes will become your best friend. Use them liberally for initial cleanup before reaching for a new nappy. Always keep sealable disposal bags in your nappy bag for soiled clothing. Place the stained clothes inside to prevent odours from spreading. 

  • Preventing Nappy Blowouts

The first thing to do is to make sure that the nappy fits your baby perfectly. A snug, but not too tight, fit can help prevent leaks and blowouts. It also helps to choose nappies that are known for their absorbency and leakage protection. They might be a bit more pricey but they will save you from frequent wardrobe changes and cleanup sessions. Pay attention to how you position the nappy or wrap. Making sure that everything fits will help prevent leaks. 

Bottom Line

We hope that this guide has made nappy-changing a less danger-fraught effort. For those who need to solidify their basics, you can check out our more in-depth guide on how to change a nappy. Learn more about the world of eco-friendly nappies with Little & Brave!