Hello everyone,
I recently became a new parent to a premature baby girl who weighed only 3 pounds at birth. As a first-time parent, I am a little nervous about how to properly diaper and care for her. I want to make sure I am doing everything I can to ensure her comfort and health.
Are there any specific diapering tips or recommendations for premature or low birth weight babies? What types of diapers or supplies should I consider using? Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Greetings,
I am a NICU nurse and have cared for many premature babies. When diapering premature babies, it's always important to take certain precautions to prevent any complications.
Firstly, we always use preemie-sized diapers with velcro or snap closures to ensure a snug fit and minimize any chance of leakage. We also make sure to change the diaper every two hours or more frequently if needed, a clean diaper helps to prevent all sorts of infections.
Next, we usually use warm water and gentle cleansers to clean the baby's skin after they poop or pee. We always pat them dry and usually use a skin protectant to prevent any rashes or irritation.
If the baby has an umbilical catheter or stump, we generally prefer to use cloth diapers with a cut-out. This style allows the diaper to be above the stump, reducing the chance of contamination and potential infections.
Lastly, if you're using disposable diapers, it's important to keep them away from the baby's skin so that the baby doesn't get the diaper rash. Make sure the diaper fits correctly and is snug, but not too tight around the legs.
These tips are helpful to diaper a premature baby, but still, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.