There are two basic types of diapers that apply to both infant and toddler versions. These two types are:

1. Cloth diapers
2. Disposable diapers

Cloth diapers:

If you're using traditional cloth diapers, there are two ways to fasten them. The first is the triangular fold:

• Fold the square in half to form a triangle. (For newborns or smaller babies, you might need to fold the long side of the triangle down a few inches so it fits your baby better.)
• Place your baby in the diaper by gently lifting the baby's feet and legs and sliding the diaper under. The longest side of the triangle should be behind your baby's back, with the opposite corner pointing down toward his feet.
• Bring the front part of the diaper up between your baby's legs and onto his or her belly.
• Bring one side around so it overlaps the center part.
• Bring the other side around so it overlaps the other two parts. Fasten all three parts together with a safety pin.

The second, the rectangular fold, is similar to the fold of disposable diapers:

• Fold the diaper into a rectangle. Some parents find it helpful to make an extra fold in the diaper so that extra material covers the area the baby will wet the most – in the front for a boy and on the bottom for a girl.
• Position the diaper under your baby, with the long sides facing the same direction as your baby.
• Bring the bottom up onto your baby's belly.
• Bring one side around and fasten with a safety pin, then do the same on the other side.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when using cloth diapers:

• If using diapers that require pinning, use oversize pins with plastic safety heads. To prevent pricking the baby, keep your hand between the pin and his or her skin. If this makes you nervous, use diaper tape that comes in a dispenser.
• Wet diapers can be tossed right into the diaper pail, but soiled diapers should be emptied into the toilet first - especially if your baby is formula-fed or is on solids. Some people rinse the diaper before washing it. You may also choose to spray the diapers with water and baking soda for better odor control.
• If you're washing the diapers yourself, wash them separately from other laundry, using a mild detergent that is hypoallergenic or recommended for infant clothing. Don't use fabric softener or antistatic products, which can cause rashes on babies' sensitive skin. Use hot water and double rinse each wash.
• Always wash your hands well after changing your baby's diaper to prevent the spread of germs.

Disposable diapers:

They have to be changed regularly or whenever baby poops. If not changed on time can cause diaper rash.

Here are a few tips that you can follow while using these diapers:

• Slip the open diaper under the baby while lifting his legs. The adhesive strip at the back must be aligned with the baby's navel.
• Bring the front of the diaper between his legs up to his belly.
• Bring adhesive strips in front and fasten.
• Dispose bowel movements in the toilet before putting diaper into garbage. This not only ensures that the diaper doesn't stink but prevents growth of bacteria.
• If the diaper is tight, you will find marks around the baby's legs and waist. Get a larger size the next time.
• While fastening a diaper for a baby boy, make sure that the penis is placed downwards; this will ensure that there are no leaks from the waistline.