Parents should plan to change their baby’s diaper about every 2 hours during the day, immediately after a poop, and before long sleep stretches. These guidelines apply to both cloth and disposable diapers to help prevent leaks, rashes, and discomfort.

If you’ve ever wondered how often to change your baby’s diaper, you’re not alone! Between naps, feedings, and playtime, it can be hard to know what’s “normal.” The truth is, whether you’re using cloth diapers or disposables, the same general rule applies: frequent diaper changes keep your baby clean, comfortable, and rash-free.

Here are three key times to keep in mind 👇

1. Change About Every 2 Hours

Most newborns and young babies need a diaper change about every 2 hours during the day. Their skin is sensitive, and leaving moisture on it too long can lead to irritation or diaper rash.

For cloth diaper users, this is especially important since natural fibers don’t contain the chemical absorbents that disposables do. For disposable diaper users, checking every 2–3 hours helps prevent leaks and odors.

As your baby grows and starts staying dry longer between changes and their skin toughens up, you can extend this a bit—but regular checks are always a good idea.

2. Change Right After They Poop (Every Time!)

No matter what kind of diaper you use, poopy diapers should be changed immediately. Prolonged contact with stool can irritate your baby’s skin and cause painful rashes. Waiting about 5 minutes to see if they have anything to add to their first round is a good idea though. How many surprise poops did I have at the diaper changing station during those newborn days when I went to change baby to quickly!

Cloth diapers make it easy to notice when baby has gone—there’s no absorbent gel to disguise the mess—which is actually a perk! The quicker you clean up, the happier (and healthier) your baby’s bottom will be.

3. Change Before Long Sleep Stretches

You don’t need to wake your baby overnight just for a wet diaper unless it’s leaking or causing discomfort. But it’s smart to start naps and bedtime with a fresh diaper so your baby can sleep soundly.

If your baby tends to leak at night, consider:

  • A nighttime cloth insert or doubler for extra absorbency

  • A diaper cover to seal in wetness.

  • A higher-absorbency disposable diaper for longer stretches

Some parents also do a quick “dream change” during an overnight feed if their baby has sensitive skin and they won’t disturb them too much. For a while I had to do an overnight disposable diaper + diaper cover in order to keep baby dry!

Bonus Tips to Keep Baby’s Skin Healthy

  • 🧴 Apply a thin layer of barrier cream like Grandma El’s or our Everyday Balm at each change to prevent rashes. This is especially good for newborn sensitive skin!

  • 👃 Trust your senses — a noticeable odor, sagging diaper, or fussy baby often means it’s time for a change

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re using cloth or disposable diapers, consistency is key. Changing your baby every 2 hours, whenever they poop, and before long sleep stretches keeps their skin healthy and your routine predictable.

A happy, clean baby = fewer leaks, fewer rashes, and more peace of mind for you 💚