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To make nappy changing easier, tips include having all your essentials set-up at the designated station, pre-opening a clean nappy, using a contoured changing mat, using a nappy bin, setting up mini prep stations around the house, giving your child a designated nappy changing toy, creating a song, narrating what you’re doing and giving your baby a job.
Hacks for stress-free nappy changing
Nappy changes don’t have to feel like a wrestling match.
With a few smart set-up tricks and some well-timed distractions, you can turn change time into a smoother, calmer moment for both you and your baby.
Here are some hacks to help you get there.
10 nappy changing hacks
These nappy changing hacks are designed for real life: tired parents, unpredictable babies and changes at all hours of the day (and night).
1. Create a “one-reach” changing station
A calm change starts before the nappy comes off. Set up your changing area so everything is within arm’s reach:
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Nappies
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Wipes
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Cream
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Nappy bags or bin
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A spare outfit
No rummaging mid-change = less stress all round.
2. Pre-open the clean nappy
Unfold and loosen the tabs before you start. When the old nappy comes off, you can quickly slide the new one underneath — a small move that saves precious seconds.
3. Use a contoured changing mat
Mats with a slight dip help babies feel more secure and keep wrigglers more centred, making changing a baby’s nappy much easier.
4. Consider a nappy bin
While not essential, a nappy bin can be a real game-changer — especially during nighttime nappy changes or bad weather. Being able to dispose of a dirty nappy instantly keeps change time quick and contained (and avoids repeated trips to the outside bin).
Our Twist & Click nappy bin makes it even easier with one less job for you to do. It is the only nappy bin that wraps every nappy individually for you to help stop bad smells from escaping.
Plus, Twist & Click’s new colours have been inspired by current interior design trends to complement your baby’s nursery at the same time.
What nappy bags should I use?
The last thing you want during change-time is realising you’ve ran out of bags to put their dirty nappy in – risking a smelly nursery or an immediate trip to the outside bin.
Twist & Click’s refills hold more than 100 nappies and are up to 50% longer than refill inserts from other manufacturers* so you won’t run out of film as soon.
5. Keep mini prep stations around the house
Store small baskets with nappies and wipes in high-use areas like the living room. You won’t always make it to the nursery in time.
6. Have a “special nappy change toy”
Keep one or two toys only for nappy changes. Lights, mirrors or crinkly textures work brilliantly because they stay exciting.
7. Give your baby a job
Hand them a wipe or let them “hold” the clean nappy. Older babies and toddlers love feeling involved.
8. Sing a predictable nappy song
Babies thrive on routine. A silly, repeated song can calm them and signal that nappy change time is safe and familiar.
9. Narrate what you’re doing
Talking through each step (“Now we wipe… now the clean nappy goes on!”) helps babies feel connected and can reduce crying.
10. Change position if needed
If your baby loves to roll, try floor changes instead of an elevated surface. It’s often safer and less stressful.
What should I do if my newborn hates nappy changes?
If your newborn hates nappy change time or cries when you’re changing their nappy, you’re not alone. This is incredibly common, especially in the early weeks.
Here’s what can help:
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Warm the wipes in your hands before using them
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Keep the room warm - cold air can be a shock
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Move slowly
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Maintain eye contact and talk gently
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Try skin-to-skin contact immediately after the change
Remember, your baby isn’t being difficult - they’re adjusting to the world. With consistency, most babies grow out of this phase.
Should I change their nappy first or feed them?
This depends on your baby and the time of day.
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If your baby is very hungry, feed first - a calmer baby usually equals an easier nappy change.
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If they’ve done a poo or have a very wet nappy, change first to avoid discomfort.
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At night, many parents feed first so baby is relaxed and more likely to settle straight back to sleep.
There’s no single “right” order - experiment and see what works best for your baby.
Tips for nighttime nappy changes
Nighttime nappy changes can be particularly challenging, especially when you’re half asleep. The goal here is minimal disruption.
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Use low, warm lighting - avoid bright overhead lights
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Don’t talk too much or stimulate play
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Skip unnecessary changes if the nappy is only lightly wet
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Use overnight nappies for better absorbency
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Have everything ready before you start
Keeping night changes calm and boring helps your baby understand it’s still sleep time.
*According to internal testing, comparing lengths of 8 pre-measured inserts, March 2025, please see: https://www.tommeetippee.com/en-gb/verify
