Should You Feed Your Baby First or Change Their Diaper?

For first-time mothers, it’s common to feel unsure about whether to feed a newborn first or change their diaper, especially when the baby cries and you want to soothe them quickly. According to Dr. Somaya Moussa, a child nutrition and sleep consultant, the approach depends on whether it’s daytime or nighttime and the baby’s needs.

1. Daytime Routine

• Newborns sleep 15–17 hours daily, but during awake periods, they cry primarily for feeding or closeness to their mother, not just because they are hungry.

• Recommended order:

  1. Feed the baby first, ensuring they feel full.

  2. Then change the diaper.

• You can also change the diaper while the baby is still sleepy.

• This sequence helps keep the baby awake after feeding, which is important for daytime bonding, play, and achieving healthy growth patterns.

2. Nighttime Routine

• At night, when the baby wakes up crying:

  1. Change the diaper first to reduce discomfort.

  2. Feed the baby afterward.

  3. Gently pat the baby and place them back in a calm, dimly lit environment to encourage sleep.

• Feeding first at night may keep the baby more awake due to movement and muscle activation, which can disrupt sleep.

3. Recognizing Different Types of Crying

• Hunger: Gradual increase in crying intensity; worsens when the baby senses the mother nearby.

• Pain (e.g., colic): Baby may clench fists, pull legs toward the belly, or display facial tension.

• Tiredness/Boredom: Continuous low-pitched whining, yawning, rubbing eyes, or turning away from stimuli.

4. Diaper Change Tips

• Always check the diaper frequently; don’t wait for the baby to cry or for a smell, as newborn stool often has little odor.

• Prompt diaper changes prevent diaper rash, irritation, and prolonged discomfort that feeding alone cannot resolve.

• Dry and air the area thoroughly before putting on a clean diaper.

5. Diaper Activation Technique

• Before putting on a new diaper:

  1. Lightly pull and shake the diaper to activate the side seals.

  2. Lay it on a smooth surface and ensure the elastic around the legs is flexible.

• This step helps prevent leaks, keeps the baby comfortable, and can reduce crying caused by wet diapers.

Key Takeaway:

• Day: Feed first → diaper change.

• Night: Diaper change first → feed.

• Recognize the type of crying and respond appropriately.

• Proper diaper preparation and quick changes help prevent discomfort, keep the baby happy, and reduce unnecessary crying.