Diaper Basics: print out guide

Diapering is one of the constants of life with a baby. If you're just starting out, print out this guide and keep it by the changing table. Before you know it, you'll be an expert.

• For the first few days, a newborn's stools contain a black, sticky substance called meconium. After than, breast-fed babies generally have seedy, mustard-colored, loose movements, while formula-fed infants produce firmer, darker, greenish ones.
• Let your doctor know if your infant doesn't have a bowel movement within her first day or so. By the time your baby is a week old, bowel movements usually come in a fairly consistent pattern. Expect her to have between two and five bowel movements a day.
• Changing after a feeding is usually wisest, since babies often have a bowel movement while eating.
• Change the baby as soon as possible after the diaper is soiled to prevent rashes.
• Always change your baby on a flat, sturdy surface, preferably a changing table, from which she cannot roll and fall.
• Use the safety straps on your changing table to secure her. If there are no safety straps, always keep a hand on your baby.
• Never leave a baby unattended on a table, even if she's secured with straps.