Do you dread the thought of needing to change your baby’s diaper during a flight? It might seem like an unavoidable headache, but with a few simple tips and a bit of knowledge about the rules surrounding public health and safety, it can be far simpler than you realize!
In this post, we’ll break down everything there is to know about changing diapers on airplanes so that traveling with your little one becomes much less cumbersome.
Traveling with a baby can be both a joy and an ordeal. Even the most seasoned parents struggle to figure out how to change diapers in tight spots, like on an airplane. With limited space, it’s not easy to find the right balance of maneuverability and cleanliness when changing diapers on a plane.
To help make this challenge easier for you, here is your go-to guide on how to change diaper on airplane!
Things You Should Keep in Mind Before Changing Diaper on Airplane
1. Have a Bag Ready to Dispose of Soiled Diapers
This is probably the most important thing to remember when changing diapers on an airplane. Make sure you have a bag ready to dispose of any soiled diapers. It is not safe or sanitary to leave soiled diapers lying around and it can be frowned upon by other passengers if they become aware of it.
2. Bring How Many Diapers You Need
Remember to bring enough diapers for the length of your flight, as it can be difficult to purchase more on an airplane. It’s best to bring a few extras just in case of any accidents or delays.
3. Have a Changing Pad Handy
Having a changing pad is essential when changing diapers on an airplane as it will help keep the area you’re working in clean. It will also make it easier to have a flat surface that won’t move around while you’re changing your baby’s diaper.
4. Wear a Mask and Gloves
Wearing a face mask and gloves can help keep germs at bay when changing diapers on an airplane. This is especially important if the person sitting next to you is not wearing a face mask.
5. Dispose of the Diaper Properly
Once you have changed your baby’s diaper, make sure to dispose of it in the bag that you brought with you. This will ensure that no one else on the plane has to smell or be exposed to any germs that may be present in the soiled diaper.
6. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
After changing diapers on an airplane, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with hot water and soap. It is important to do this after any diaper change, especially on an airplane where germs can easily spread.
Finally, remember that changing diapers on an airplane is not ideal and can be a hassle.
If you are able to, it’s best to try and wait until you land at your destination before changing your baby’s diaper. This will help ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible and that both you and your baby remain comfortable during the flight.
How to Change Diaper on Airplane in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather All of Your Supplies
Before you head out, make sure to gather all of the supplies that you will need for a diaper change on an airplane. These include: a changing pad, diapers and wipes, a garbage bag, hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes, as well as any additional items your baby may need such as snacks or toys.
Step 2: Choose a Good Spot for the Diaper Change
Choose an area to change your baby’s diaper. Many airlines will have changing tables located in lavatories, or you can use the armrests of empty seats if available. Also make sure to bring something to cover the surface, such as a changing pad or blanket.
Step 3: Prepare Your Child for the Diaper Change
Explain what is going on to your baby, and be prepared if they start crying. It’s best to do this before you actually begin the diaper change process, so that your child has time to calm down.
Step 4: Dispose of the Old Diaper
Take off the old diaper and discard it in a trash bag. Make sure that it is secure so that there are no messes on the plane, or even worse, all over your lap! Be careful not to touch any of the soiled materials.
Step 5: Clean and Put on a New Diaper
Clean your child’s bottom with wipes or a damp washcloth, then apply fresh diaper cream before putting on a new diaper. If you have any other items, such as snacks or toys, that your baby may need, now is the time to provide them.
Step 6: Recheck and Dispose of the Mess
Once you’ve finished the diaper change, recheck your child to make sure that everything is secure and there are no messes. Then, dispose of any used supplies in a trash bag, which can be found near the lavatories on most planes. Finally, use hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes to clean up any mess that may have been made during the process.
By following these steps, you can ensure that changing your baby’s diaper on an airplane is quick and efficient! Good luck and happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Changing a Diaper on an Airplane?
When changing your baby’s diaper on an airplane, it is important to remember that although the space you are in may seem limited, safety and hygiene must still be observed to prevent any mess or potential contamination of the area.
You should always make sure that you have all the necessary supplies and that you are changing your baby on a clean surface, such as a diaper-changing pad or an airline-provided tray. You should also bring hand sanitizer to use both before and after the diaper change.
Lastly, be sure to dispose of the soiled diaper properly in an appropriate restroom disposal container.
Are There Any Special Rules for Changing Diapers on Airplanes?
In addition to general safety and hygiene precautions, many airlines have specific rules for changing diapers that must be followed. It is always best to check with the airline before your flight to ensure that you are familiar with their policies, including any restrictions on using a diaper changing pad or other supplies.
Additionally, it is important to remember that changing diapers in the aisle is prohibited, and you should always use a restroom if one is available.
Where Should Diapers be Stored During Flight?
For convenience, it is often recommended that you store your diaper-changing supplies near the seat you are using. However, depending on the airline, this may not be allowed. In that case, the diaper-changing supplies should be kept in an appropriate storage area, such as an overhead bin or under your seat.
It is important to check with the airline regarding their policies for storing these items before your flight.
Can I Bring a Diaper Changing Pad on Airplane?
Many airlines allow diaper-changing pads to be brought on board, though you should always check with the specific airline before your flight. If a diaper changing pad is allowed, it must usually fit within the carry-on luggage size restrictions set by the airline.
Additionally, many airlines have special rules regarding the use of these items onboard and will typically require them to be stored in an appropriate compartment or overhead bin when not in use.
What Should I Do if the Airplane Has No Diaper Changing Facilities?
If the airplane does not have any diaper-changing facilities, you can still change your baby’s diaper using a disposable changing pad and other necessary items that fit within carry-on luggage limits. However, if this is not possible, it is best to wait until you reach your destination and use a restroom or other designated diaper-changing area.
It is important to remember that diapers should never be changed in the aisle of an airplane due to safety and hygiene reasons.
Conclusion
Changing a diaper on an airplane can be challenging, but with proper preparation and knowledge of the specific airline’s policies, it can be a relatively stress-free experience.
Be sure to have all the necessary items and follow safety precautions when changing your baby’s diaper on an airplane, such as using a pad or tray and disposing of the soiled diaper in an appropriate container. Lastly, never change diapers in the aisle of an airplane, as it is not only a safety hazard but also unhygienic.
With these tips in mind, you can now take your baby on board with peace of mind! We hope this guide on how to change diaper on airplane was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the comment section below. Thank you for reading! Happy flying!
