Learn all about Diapering, Diapers, and Newborn Baby Care

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Diapering Basics for Every Parent to Know

From daily diaper changes to finding the right baby diaper fit and stocking your changing station, discover everything you need to feel prepared and confident diapering your newborn and growing baby
Your Diaper Guidance

Confident Diapering, From Day One

Start with these simple steps to make every baby diaper change easier, cleaner, and more comfortable—for both you and your little one.

A little blond girl standing in a nursery dressed in a red tshirt and Pampers diaper pants playing with the diaper pant sides.

How Often to Change a Diaper

Newborns tend to eat—and poop—around the clock, so wet and dirty diapers can be frequent. In fact, it’s common to see pee or poop in the diaper up to 10 times a day in the first few weeks. As babies grow, the number of diaper changes usually decreases to about 6 to 8 per day. The key to a happy and healthy baby is ensuring they stay clean and dry. A wet or dirty diaper left on for too long can lead to diaper rash—so stay on top of those changes for a happy little bottom.

Plan your Diaper Usage
A smiling baby lying on their tummy looking to the side. The baby is dressed in a Pampers diaper and positioned on a changing table.

What You Need for Every Diaper Change

A smooth diaper change starts with having the essentials within arm’s reach. Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • A clean diaper in the correct size

  • Baby wipes

  • Diaper cream or ointment (if needed)

  • A safe, clean changing surface.

We have a range of Pampers diapers for newborns, older babies, and toddlers—providing something for all your diapering needs.

Discover Our Diapers
Close up on a moms hand closing the diaper tapes on a baby’s belly. The image is a closeup shot only showcasing the baby’s belly and right leg. The baby is dressed in a blue t-shirt and Pampers diapers.

How a Diaper Should Fit

A properly fitting baby diaper helps prevent leaks, blowouts, and unnecessary skin irritation—especially important when using newborn diapers. The diaper should sit just below the belly button, and you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the waistband. The leg cuffs should be untucked with no gaps. If you notice any gaps or red marks on your baby's skin, it may be time to adjust the fit or consider moving up a size.

Diaper Size Chart
Your Step-by-Step Guide

How to Change a Diaper Step-by-Step

Every diaper change gets easier with practice—even the messy ones involving poop or surprise pee mid diaper change.

How to change a diaper

Step 1

Remove dirty diaper
A baby lying on their back during a diaper change. A parents hand is lifting the babies feet up to pull the used diaper out. The baby is dressed in a yellow t-shirt. all sensitive parts are covered.

Step 2

Gently clean your baby
A close up of a parent holding the legs of a baby up whilst using wipes to clean the baby’s behind. All sensitive areas are covered. The baby is lying on a changing table.

Step 3

Apply cream if needed
Close up of a parents hand holding a little container with cream filled in.

Step 4

Place a fresh diaper
A smiling baby lying on their back during a diaper change. A parents hand is stretching the diaper sides to fasten the new diaper. The baby is dressed in a yellow t-shirt. All sensitive parts are covered.

Step 5

Fasten properly
Mother fastening a diaper on her baby

Preventing Diaper Rash: What Really Works

Find the perfect diaper and wipe for your little one. Diaper rash is common, especially in the first year—but knowing what causes it can help you prevent it. The 4 main causes of diaper rash include prolonged skin contact with urine or poop in the diaper, overhydration of the skin, friction from tight diapers or clothing, and an imbalance in skin pH due to enzymes in poop.

You can help prevent diaper rash by changing diapers regularly, keeping your baby’s skin clean and dry, and using a super-absorbent, well-fitting diaper.

Discover all about diaper rash, including causes, symptoms, and remedies, in our dedicated guide.

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Save With the Pampers Rewards App

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Start saving now with Pampers!

From your baby’s very first diaper change, the Pampers Rewards app helps you earn rewards on Pampers diapers and wipes—so all that diapering work can come with a little extra benefit.

Download app
Diaper bag
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Your Diaper Bag Essentials Checklist

Here is our must-have checklist for what to pack in your diaper bag. Discover the essentials and nice-to-haves, and learn some helpful packing tips.

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Baby lying on a green blanket during a diaper change as a caregiver prepares supplies, illustrating gentle home care.
9 min read

Diaper Rash: Causes, Symptoms, & Relief for Your Baby

By Christopher B. Peltier

What is diaper rash, and how do you treat it? Find out what causes diaper rash, the symptoms to look out for, and how to protect your baby’s skin.

Read more
Close-up of a baby’s skin showing red, irritated diaper rash around the diaper area.
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Diaper Rash Bleeding: How to Soothe, Prevent, and Heal Your Baby's Sensitive Skin

By Christopher B. Peltier

Learn how to manage diaper rash bleeding, understand when to seek medical advice, and keep your baby comfortable. Discover essential care tips here.

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Child pulling at the waistband of a diaper.
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How to Prevent Diaper Blowouts and Leaks

Learn how to prevent diaper blowouts and leaks with expert tips on sizing, fit, overnight protection, and the best diapers for blowout protection.

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Toddler in diaper bends forward on carpet, peeking upside down between legs in a bright room.
7 min read

What Causes Diaper Blowouts and Leaks?

Diaper blowouts happen—especially in newborns. Discover the causes of diaper blowouts, how to prevent leaks, and when to call your provider.

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Baby on changing table being cared for with a gentle touch in a bright, nurturing environment.
6 min read

When and How to Use Diaper Cream for Your Baby

By Christopher B. Peltier

Wondering about the uses of diaper creams? We’ll discuss when to use a diaper cream and provide a step-by-step guide on how to apply it.

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Mom changing baby’s diaper on a changing table
12 min read

Understanding Baby Pee: Wet Diapers, Frequency, Color, and Smell

By Nick Imholte

Learn all about your baby’s pee, including normal urinary frequency, why there might be a strong smell, the meaning behind different pee colors, and more.

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Smiling baby in a neutral-toned diaper, illustrating everyday comfort with Pampers AMORE diapers.
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Pampers AMORE Diapers: Our best diaper, made with love in every detail

Discover Pampers AMORE, our best diaper for sensitive skin with advanced dryness, hypoallergenic materials, and trusted Pampers protection.

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Discover the connection between teething and diaper rash, and explore effective tips for soothing your baby during these challenging times to provide comfort and relief.
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Teething and Diaper Rash: Are They Connected?

By Christopher B. Peltier

Teething and diaper rash are often thought to be connected; however, teething generally doesn’t cause diaper rash. Read on to learn more.

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