What kit might you need for nappy changing and bath time?

Changing and bathing your baby will become part of your daily routine from the moment you arrive home from hospital. They’re simple tasks in themselves and generally just need some basic essentials – that’s exactly what we’ll cover here.

There are countless products to choose from in the shops. Let your baby’s needs and comfort lead the way, then consider what’s safest and, finally, what’s easiest for you to use. You’ve likely seen most of the items below; we’ll focus on the points that can help you decide with confidence.

Changing table or mat 

How have you pictured changing your baby? Would you like a dedicated changing table or chest next to the cot, would a changing mat be enough, or would you prefer to do changes on the bed?

All can work – here are the pros and cons.

A changing chest is a piece of nursery furniture that often matches the cot and sits beside it. Above all, it must be safe. A suitably high side helps prevent baby rolling off. It should also be a comfortable height for you and ideally offer storage. The downside is that baby lies high up, so you must keep constant watch, especially once they get wiggly – you don’t want any accidental tumbles.

A changing mat is a rigid, cushioned pad with a wipe-clean, water-resistant surface, often placed on the cot and lifted away when not needed – great if you’re short on space. Safety matters here too. Because these pads usually have lower sides, a rolling baby can easily slip off.

Many parents find it easier to change very wriggly little ones on the bed – there’s more space and less risk of falls. To protect bedding, use a mat or other waterproof layer underneath.

Disposable or reusable nappies 

Most families choose disposable nappies because they’re very convenient to use and manage. The drawbacks are that they’re not made from natural fibres, carry a significant environmental load in production, and create slow-degrading waste – one baby can generate an impressive pile.

Disposables contain chemical components that we, as shoppers, don’t always know much about – and these sit against baby’s skin. For example, a baby prone to nappy rash may flare more easily with one brand than another. That’s why it’s important to choose skin-friendly options. Colour or fragrance doesn’t matter – what matters is what touches the skin. If you’ve found a brand that works, it’s sensible not to switch.

Reusable nappies are a budget-friendly alternative, made from natural, skin-kind materials and producing far less waste. They’re easy to use; the trade-offs are that they need washing and are typically a bit bulkier than disposables, so baby wears a slightly bigger bundle. Because their absorbent core differs, you may need to check and change a little more often. Reusables can also support body awareness, as babies more readily notice when they’ve weed.

Nappy bin 

If you’d rather not put used nappies straight into the household bin – and don’t want to be constantly dashing to the outside bin – choose a nappy bin that wraps and seals each nappy to contain odours hygienically. There are many styles, and you can also get hanging nappy bags for travel.

Baby wipes and nappy cream 

Baby wipes are very handy – they make changes quicker and easier. But they do contain chemicals that some babies’ skin can be sensitive to. If you can, make your own gentle wipes from natural materials. If you prefer to use shop-bought, pick hypoallergenic wipes with as few additives as possible. When using wipes, try to avoid a cold wipe from the pack on baby’s skin.

Opinions differ on nappy creams, so ask your GP or health visitor which products they recommend. These creams mainly protect the skin from redness caused by warmth and urine. Newborn skin is especially delicate, so take extra care. Every baby is different; once you find a cream that suits your child, avoid chopping and changing, which can increase the chance of reactions.

When choosing a nappy cream, check the ingredients carefully. Aim to avoid common allergens, fragrances, parabens (E218, E214) and petroleum-derived ingredients (petrolatum, mineral oil, Paraffinum Liquidum).

Baby bath 

Before you pick a baby bath, think about where you’ll bathe your little one. Which room can you keep warm, and where do you have enough space? Choose the size and type accordingly.

If you opt for a bath with a built-in support, you may find it easier to position baby safely. You’ll still need to hold them, but it can make things a touch easier. Supports are also sold separately if you’d like a larger bath for the longer term.

Some baths come with non-slip surfaces – or you can simply use a muslin in the base. Oval (“sponge-cake”) shaped larger baths are popular once babies can sit, as they can hold the sides and there’s plenty of room.

A baby bath bucket (tummy tub style) can be a lovely way to ease the transition from womb to world. In this tub, baby sits in a familiar, tucked position, which many find soothing, secure and low-stress.

Baby towels and muslins 

When choosing baby towels, look for natural fibres – cotton, terry, flannel, bamboo – whether simple or hooded. The fabric should absorb well, feel soft and be gentle on skin.

A large muslin “kifogó” (traditional tetra muslin) is a generously sized, highly absorbent sheet many parents love. It can be boiled, is densely woven, typically double-layered 100% cotton, and has been a favourite for generations.

Baby nail scissors 

Newborn nails are very soft, and trimming them can feel daunting – those fingers are tiny! Choose well-made little scissors with a rounded tip so you don’t risk nicking baby with a sudden movement. You can also find hypoallergenic, nickel-free coatings nowadays.

Sources:

NHS – Washing and bathing your baby

NHS – Changing a nappy