86% of parents dread public nappy changes – but this expert’s tips could save your sanity
Restaurants, trains and planes are the top stress spots – here’s how to stay calm and clean when changing on the go
You’re not alone if you’ve ever changed a nappy in a café toilet and wondered if you’ll ever feel clean again.
New research by baby-care brand Colief has revealed that a huge 86% of UK parents feel anxious about changing nappies when they’re out and about – with restaurants, public transport, and planes topping the list of most dreaded places to do the deed.
To help parents cope with the chaos, Colief has teamed up with registered health visitor and midwife Angie Willis, who’s shared 10 genuinely useful tips to help make public nappy changes easier, cleaner, and just a bit less stressful.
Why do parents find nappy changes so stressful when they’re out?
It’s not just the mess – although, let’s be honest, public poo explosions are never fun. Colief’s survey found that over 2 in 5 parents (43%) struggle with the lack of proper baby-changing facilities in toilets, and 1 in 5 also admitted to feeling judged when changing their baby in public spaces.
And it’s not exactly a rare issue – 38% of parents said they’ve been caught in the crossfire of a wee or poo mid-change, and 16% confessed to wrestling dirty nappies out of their baby’s hands. We’ve all been there...
10 expert tips to survive nappy changes when you’re out and about
Angie Willis, a midwife with over 20 years of experience, says that being prepared – and knowing a few practical tricks – can help massively when it comes to changing nappies on the go.
Here are her top tips:
1. Wipe smart
“Wipe any excess poo off with the used nappy before cleaning with cotton wool or a reusable wipe,” Angie says. It keeps things quicker – and cleaner.
2. Post-caesarean? Avoid bending
“If you’ve had a caesarean, change your baby at waist height to support recovery.” Try kitchen worktops (not food prep areas!) or cot-top changing tables at home.
3. Don’t go it alone
“Ask your partner or visitors to change nappies to support your recovery and help them feel involved,” she adds.
4. It’s okay if your baby cries
Not all babies enjoy nappy changes – and that’s fine. “Use the time to bond,” says Angie. Try smiling, singing, talking, and keeping eye contact.
5. Breathe through it
If your baby’s upset, calming yourself can help. Angie suggests: “Breathe in for 6, out for 7, and say aloud, ‘A clean bum helps my baby.’”
6. Distraction is your friend
Got a wriggler? “Toys, songs, or chatting to your baby can help them stay still during a change,” says Angie.
7. Backwards nappies for nappy-houdinis
If your little one likes to undo their nappy: “Put it on backwards – it can stop them taking it off.”
8. Pack for poo emergencies
Spare nappies, wipes and a change of clothes for baby are essential when you’re out. “Being prepared helps prevent panic,” Angie says.
9. Don’t forget a reusable mat
“A reusable changing mat lets you change your baby anywhere hygienically and comfortably,” she adds. Soft, washable, and great for on-the-go.
10. Bring a spare outfit – for you
Babies don’t just leak on themselves. Angie advises: “Pack a change of clothes for yourself too – just in case.”
Whether you’re knee-deep in a public nappy change on a delayed train or just trying to keep your baby still on a baby changing table in a tiny café loo, know this: you’re definitely not the only one.
With a bit of prep, a lot of wipes, and Angie’s tips up your sleeve, you’ll feel far more ready to face whatever mess comes your way.
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Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.