Changing diapers isn’t exactly the most glamorous part of parenting, but it’s a necessary one—and one that both parents can (and should!) share.
If you’re finding yourself handling 99% of diaper duty while dad magically disappears at the first whiff of a dirty diaper, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many moms struggle with getting their partners to step up when it comes to changing diapers, but the good news is, there are ways to make it happen without nagging or frustration.
How to get dad to change diapers (without nagging!)
Why some dads avoid diaper duty
Let’s be honest—some dads will claim they just “don’t know how” or “aren’t as good at it” as mom. Others might gag at the thought of dealing with a dirty diaper or insist that they’re just not quick enough.
But here’s the thing: no one is born knowing how to change a diaper. It’s a skill, and like any skill, it just takes a little (messy) practice!
Some dads might also avoid diaper duty because they genuinely don’t realize how often diapers need changing or how exhausting it can be to do them all day long. If this is the case, a little conversation and teamwork can go a long way!
Make it simple and straightforward
If dad is hesitant because he feels unprepared, setting up a diaper-changing station with everything he needs can help. Keep wipes, diapers, a changing mat, and La Petite Creme (a no-fuss, all-in-one diaper care solution) in an easy-to-reach spot.
The fewer excuses, the better!
Ask him directly
Sometimes, dads just need a little structure. Instead of waiting for him to step up (which, let’s be real, might never happen), ask him for support at a set time.
Maybe he’s on morning duty while you get ready for the day, or he takes over in the evenings before bedtime. Making it part of the routine can help it become second nature.
Play to his strengths
If your partner loves gadgets, introduce him to diaper-changing hacks that make the process quicker and easier. If he loves making your baby laugh, encourage him to make it a fun bonding moment.
Some dads just need a little incentive, whether it’s a fun challenge (how fast can he do it?) or some words of appreciation for stepping up.
Let him do it his way
It can be tempting to step in and correct how your partner changes a nappy—maybe the tabs aren’t perfectly even, or he wipes in a slightly different direction than you would. But as long as the baby is clean and comfortable, it’s best to let him figure out his own way of doing things.
Giving him the space to take charge without being micromanaged will help him feel more confident and capable.
Plus, when dads are allowed to parent in their own way, they’re more likely to take an active role rather than feeling like they’re just following instructions.
Petites pensées
Getting dad involved in diaper duty doesn’t have to be a source of frustration.
A little encouragement and a touch of directly asking for their support can go a long way in making diaper changes a shared responsibility. After all, parenting is a team effort, and every diaper change is one more chance for dad to bond with the baby—and give mom a well-earned break!