MIND THE MESS – LONDONERS ADMIT TO NAPPY CHANGES ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Nappy changing, from wriggling babies, rogue wees and messier than planned moments are all part of the learning curve of becoming a parent and it’s one of the trickiest (and messiest!) for new mums and dads to get to grips with.

A new survey of 2000 parents, timed with the launch of Colief’s Nappy Care Spray, has uncovered the realities of parenting, in their full and messy glory. For London parents this uncovered some nappy changing confessions with nearly a third getting weed/pooed on (32%) and almost a quarter getting caught out by forgetting to pack spare nappies (24%).

Where a nappy change takes place has also caused parents anxiety and stress. A restaurant topped the national list of ‘most dreaded place to change a nappy’ with more than a quarter of UK parents (26%) revealing it, closely followed by one in four parents calling out changing a nappy on public transport as their second worst nightmare. Yet for Londoners changing en route was common as more than a third (36%) admitted to a nappy change on public transport.

London parents also confessed to some weird and wonderful places they’ve changed nappies, including car boots, park benches, and even shopping trolleys. Nearly 1 in 5 London parents also confessed to changing nappies at festivals, and almost 1 in 10 changing in pub beer gardens.

What makes changing nappies away from home so stressful has typically been the lack of changing tables in toilets or facilities, and 1 in 5 UK parents also worry about being judged when changing a nappy in public. For London parents, 40% said the smell of a dirty nappy is also a cortisol inducer and 32% saying the mess gets them most stressed.

When it comes to ‘hacks’ and tips for changing, 1 in 7 parents have learned the hard way and now say to pack a change of clothes for yourself too. London parents have stressed that spare wipes and nappies are the golden rule, according to 67% of London based parents and more than a third (35%) of parents swear by a pre-packed ‘emergency kit’ to save the day. Distraction is also key as more than a quarter (28%) say toys and snacks save the day at nappy changing time.
Angie Willis, a midwife with 13 years experience, has stepped in with advice as she advised:

Tips for making nappy changing less stressful

When changing the nappy, wipe any excess poo off with the used nappy before cleaning with cotton wool or a reusable wipe.
If you have had a caesarean birth, change your baby at waist height to aid recovery and prevent bending over. Kitchen worktops (ideally not food preparation surfaces) or cot-top changing tables can help.
Ask your partner or visitors to change nappies to support your recovery and help them feel involved.
Not all babies love nappy changes. It’s okay if they cry. Nappy changes can be opportunities for bonding and supporting brain development—make it as fun and interactive as possible with smiling, singing, eye contact, talking, and explaining what you’re doing. This will also help reduce stress for you as a parent.
Breathing techniques are useful if your baby cries during nappy changes. Try breathing in for 6, out for 7, and say aloud: “A clean bum helps my baby.”
As your baby gets older and more active, distraction with toys, songs, or communication can help keep them still during a change.
For babies who like to undo their nappies, putting the nappy on backwards can stop them from taking it off.
When going out, pack spare nappies and wipes. Being prepared will help prevent any last-minute panic if your baby has a day full of poo and wee.
Take a reusable changing mat with you. This allows you to change your baby anywhere conveniently, ensures hygiene, and provides comfort with a soft, washable surface.
Consider packing a change of clothes for yourself too, in case your baby wees, poos, or possets on you while out and about.

Colief’s new Nappy Care Spray cleans, protects and prevents nappy rash from day one, available from Amazon RRP £11.99.