From birth to one year old, the average baby goes through a lot of diaper changing. In the beginning, most babies need around 8 to 10 diapers per day, but as your baby’s bladder develops, the diaper changing will be reduced. Besides, the diaper size will change.
So when to switch from newborn to Size 1 diapers? This is frequently asked by many new mothers. For that matter, dive into this short article and learn the proper answer, including how to check if the diaper size is wrong.
When to Switch From Newborn to Size 1 Diapers?
The short answer is after 4 weeks if you have a baby boy, and after 6 weeks if you have a baby girl. This is because at around this age, most boys and girls gain more weight. Therefore, they are ready to start wearing diapers bigger than the newborn size.
So most babies can fit in a Size 1 diaper shortly after birth. However, if your baby weighs anything below 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms), this means you should start with a preemie diaper size. Continue to read and learn more about the differences between Newborn size to Size 1 diapers.
Newborn diapers vs. Size 1 diapers
Let me start by saying that newborn diapers are not the same as preemie diapers. Moreover, preemie diapers are also known as size P1 diapers. They are designed for prematurely born babies. So they are great for babies who weigh below 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms).
On another hand, newborn diapers are labeled as size N diapers. They are made for most average newborns. So, they can perfectly fit babies who weigh around 9 pounds (4 kilograms). Most newborns typically need up to 10 diapers per day. In addition, they should usually wear this size for around 1.6 months before switching to a new size.
Size 1 diapers are typically designed for babies who weigh around 9 to 14 pounds (4 to 6.3 kilograms). In addition to this, most babies usually wear this diaper size for around 1.7 months. Also, as your babies grow, they will need fewer and fewer diapers. Therefore, when it comes to using Size 1 diapers, most babies need up to 9 diapers a day.
Continue to read and discover the common signs that show you should buy a different diaper size.
How to know that your baby is ready for a new diaper size
Firstly, check if there are any leaks or blowouts. Additionally, this is an obvious clue, but oftentimes parents think they have the wrong diaper quality. However, if you notice that your baby is frequently leaking through its diaper, then it’s time for a new size.
Secondly, check if your baby has red marks on their thighs. That is a clear sign that the diaper your baby is wearing is too small for them. If you can’t fit two fingers under the waistband once you fasten the diaper, then you should change the size.
Next, if you are having a hard time wearing a diaper to your baby, this can be another sign that you have the wrong size. In that case, most parents usually are not able to properly connect the diaper tabs around the baby’s waist.
Lastly, read the instructions on the box. I don’t mean you should blindly follow what’s written there. However, the listed range weight might help you decide better which diaper size you should choose next.
Read more: How to Know When to Size up Diapers
Why the diaper size matters
An appropriate diaper size is crucial, so your baby doesn’t get diaper rash. By this, I mean that if the diaper size is wrong, then it can easily irritate your baby’s skin. So if the diaper is too small, it can rub against the baby’s skin and cause friction.
On the contrary, if it’s too big, it might not absorb the urine and feces. Therefore, if your baby stays in a wet diaper for too long, this can cause diaper rash. So you must check your baby’s diaper often. In the next section, you can learn how to choose the right diapers.
Choosing the right diapers for your baby
Choosing the right diapers for your baby can be a challenge. That’s why I thought it might be a good idea to share a piece of advice for this too. So, when going shopping for diapers, you must consider several factors.
Firstly, pick a trustworthy brand. For that matter, you can check online reviews from other experienced mothers. This can help you discover which baby brands to stay away from.
Secondly, consider the diaper’s features. By this, I mean that the diaper should be capable of absorbing a lot of excreted matter (urine and feces). Also, go for diapers that contain wetness indicator lines. Typically these lines turn from white to yellow when the diaper is full.
Equally important, the diaper must be soft. This is because your baby’s skin is delicate, and the diaper shouldn’t irritate it. Besides, it must be breathable too. A breathable diaper will allow continuous airflow to your baby’s bottom.
When it comes to the sizes, the diaper must be stretchable. Also, consider your baby’s weight and habits. Most babies urinate and poop frequently throughout the day. So you will need convenient and durable diapers.
Also read: What Should Newborn Wear to Sleep in Winter?
Conclusion
So now you know when to switch from newborn to Size 1 diapers. Remember that all babies are different. So I would say when choosing a diaper size, take into consideration your baby’s gender and current weight. Also, focus on how your baby is feeling and acting while wearing specific diapers.
An appropriate diaper size is important so your baby doesn’t get diaper rash. In case of a diaper rash, the pediatrician will most likely prescribe an appropriate cream or ointment enriched with zinc oxide.
