6 Ways to Prevent Diaper Rash

Does baby have tiny red bumps on their bottom? There is a possibility that they are suffering from diaper rash. Almost all babies get diaper rashes at some point. While a baby butt rash is nothing to be concerned about, you should take proactive steps to prevent and treat it.

Baby rashes can be a real pain in the, well, you know where, and it is never fun to see them uncomfortable. So, is there anything you can do to help your little one feel better? Luckily, there is! From switching to Natural diapers to avoiding certain foods, here’s everything you need to know about diaper rash

What Causes Diaper Rashes?

There is no mystery here: pee and poo irritate your baby’s sensitive body parts. Poop in babies (especially in the first few weeks) is acidic, and urine that sits too long turns into ammonia, which is also irritating. As you might expect, diarrhea also tends to cause some fast and furious rashes. Diaper rash can also be triggered by:

• Acidic foods, such as oranges, strawberries, and tomatoes, can irritate poop.
• Rashes caused by chafing (from rubbing from too-tight clothing or diapers)
• Chemical sensitivity (from laundry detergent to wipes, to toxic chemicals in diapers)
• Diaper rash can also be caused by fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections, which are typically less common.

Home Remedies For Diaper Rash

Sometimes a reliable diaper rash treatment can be found right in your kitchen pantry. In addition to using natural diapers, try these all-natural diaper rash remedies. From diaper rash baths to plant-based extracts and oils, these easy solutions can make a world of difference.

1. Frequent Diaper Changes

The most important thing when it comes to diaper rash remedies is to keep the area dry and clean. In the case of a rash, check the baby’s diaper every hour and change it as necessary.

2. Airing Out

The key to treating diaper rash is to maximize airflow. A great natural remedy for diaper rash is naked time. You can even hold a hairdryer (in the cool setting) a few inches away from baby’s diaper area.

3. A Looser Fit

It is recommended to put your baby in a diaper that is slightly larger than usual to allow for more airflow. Obviously, you want your baby’s diaper to be tight enough so that it doesn’t leak, but if it’s too snug, it can cause rubbing and chafing. In addition, natural diapers can be much more soothing to a baby bum. 

4. Occasional Bathing

Baby’s skin can become dry and irritated from frequent bathing, which can actually exacerbate diaper rash. Instead, bathe your child in warm water three to four times a week. If you do use soap, choose a liquid, fragrance-free option.

5. Baking Soda Baths

Diaper rash can be soothed by adding a bit of baking soda to the bath. Besides being antibacterial and antifungal, it helps neutralize the acids in poop and pee! Draw baby a healing diaper rash bath by mixing two tablespoons with warm water in a baby bathtub and letting your little one soak for 10 minutes. Let the skin dry completely before putting a fresh diaper back on.

6. Breast Milk 

Breast milk may provide an effective remedy for diaper rashes, although studies have been conflicting. In one study, breast milk was as effective as 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment, while diaper rash cream containing zinc oxide and cod liver oil fared better

How Do I Prevent Diaper Rash?

So, you’ve cleared up your baby’s rash and want to prevent it from happening again. Our baby’s discomfort is also our discomfort as parents. Keep a diaper rash at bay by doing these things:

1. Switch Diaper Brands

Changing diaper brands can be an effective way to treat diaper rash. Natural diapers tend to contain far fewer chemicals, if any, that can irritate and even cause diaper rashes. 

2. Change Your Baby Often

As mentioned above, changing your baby’s diaper often not only helps treat diaper rash but helps prevent it too. Make sure to check your baby’s diaper every one to two hours and change it immediately if it is wet or soiled.

3. Go Fragrance-Free

Fragrances can irritate your baby’s delicate skin. Along with natural diapers, consider using fragrance-free wipes or even try rinsing baby’s diaper area with warm water from a squirt bottle or squeezing a wet rag instead. 

4. Clean the Area Thoroughly

Don’t forget all the nooks and crannies in those cute baby rolls when bathing your little one. To clean your baby between diaper changes, use scent-free, alcohol-free wipes.

5. Ensure They Are Dry

Prior to putting a new diaper on your baby, make sure they’re dry. Pat them – never rub them – dry. Their sensitive skin can be irritated by rubbing.

6. Wash Your Hands

Wash your hands before and after diaper changes to prevent the spread of bacteria and yeast.