Save your baby from the pain and irritation of diaper rash with these simple steps.
If you’ve ever had a rash, you know how uncomfortable it can be. So imagine how much worse it’d be for your baby with their sensitive skin. Instead of trying to treat the red, itchy, irritated skin that makes your little angel cranky and miserable, go on the offensive from the start with these simple ways to prevent diaper rash.
Getting to the bottom of it
Diaper rash is usually caused by a combination of three things – moisture on your baby’s skin, the lack of air circulating in their diaper area and the presence of irritants, such as bacteria from pee and poop or ingredients in diapers, wipes, laundry soap, bath products and lotions. So it’s important to keep your baby’s bottom as clean and dry as possible. It’s also helpful to ensure the products you use don’t contain any irritants.
What you can do to prevent diaper rash
Change diapers often
Keep irritants away
Soaps and lotions may have ingredients that could irritate your baby’s skin, especially during the first few months when their skin is at its most delicate. Warm water and cotton balls or a soft towel are more than enough to clean your baby’s bottom.
Give bottoms lots of airtime
Every time you change your baby’s diaper, pat them dry gently before putting on the fresh diaper. Better yet, let their skin air dry whenever possible. Place a waterproof pad, blanket or towel on the floor and let your baby play while their bottom gets some airtime.
Add a protective barrier
A thin layer of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide cream prevents moisture and irritants from coming into contact with your baby’s delicate skin. Slather some on every few diaper changes.
Keep it loose
If your baby’s diaper is too tight, it can chafe and cause irritation, so don’t fasten it too tightly.