If you’re a new parent, you have plenty of special moments to look forward to. Diaper blowouts aren’t one of them. However, you’ll quickly realize that these are an inevitable part of parenthood. If your little one just had a blowout of epic proportions — one so bad you’re not sure where to start — follow these helpful tips to contain the mess while cleaning it up.
How to Clean a Diaper Blowout
Keep calm and follow these tips to recover from a major diaper explosion.
Clean the Baby
If you’re at home, whisk your little one off to the bathroom. Strip off your child’s outfit and set it aside. A quick spray with a handheld showerhead rinses your baby off without waiting to fill the tub. Wash the child from head to toe with soap and warm water like you would for a regular bath.
If you’re out and about, things are a little trickier. That’s why you should never leave home without an extra outfit, a full container of wet wipes, extra diapers, and a plastic bag to contain poopy clothes. Run to the nearest public restroom – preferably one with a changing table – and wipe down your baby the best you can with wet wipes. Change the diaper and put on the spare clothes. For now, place the soiled outfit in a plastic bag.
Clean the Clothes
- Remove as much excess poop as possible with a plastic spoon or knife. Wet wipes work too, but the goal is to avoid rubbing it in.
- Spray with a pre-wash stain remover.
- Soak the clothes in warm water for at least 15 minutes.
- Throw the clothes in the wash with mild detergent and oxygen-based bleach.
- If the stain doesn’t come out, don’t dry the clothes, or the stain will set. Instead, treat them with a 30-minute soak in OxiClean Baby Stain Remover before rewashing them.
Clean Surrounding Surfaces
- Use disinfecting wipes on hard surfaces, including the changing table and bathtub.
- Use carpet cleaner and deodorizer formulated for cleaning up pet accidents.
- Pre-treat and launder changing pads, bedding, car seat covers, and other fabrics with the same techniques you used when washing baby’s clothes.
Tips to Prevent Diaper Explosions
Diaper blowouts are extremely common, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prevent them! Here are some tips to try:
- Change your baby’s diaper frequently. A blowout is more likely to occur when it’s too full.
- Put the diaper on securely. Not too tightly – just snugly enough to reduce gaps where poop can escape.
- Assess the fit of the diaper and determine why it blew up. Is it too big? Too small? Or was the load just larger than usual? If blowouts are frequent, look for a different diaper size or brand.
- Experiment with cloth diapers. These are thick and absorbent and have elastic on the back that may better contain large loads.
- Check with your pediatrician. You may want to alter what the baby eats. And if you’re breastfeeding, your diet might need adjusting.
- Use a blowout blocker diaper extension to catch explosions, save your baby’s outfit, and make cleanup fast and easy.
Get More Cleaning Help from Molly Maid
The professionals at Molly Maid may not be able to rush to your rescue the instant a diaper blowout occurs, but we can help you tackle deep-cleaning and day-to-day chores around the house. Our services allow you to spend more time doting on your precious little one.
To arrange professional house cleaning services near you, please contact your local Molly Maid or call today to request a free estimate.
