Tips for Happy & Healthy Baby Bottoms

Diaper changes are a routine part of caring for your baby, but they can be challenging, especially when dealing with bouts of diaper rash. Diaper rash is a common yet pesky issue that can leave your baby’s bottom uncomfortable, red, and irritated. By understanding the causes of diaper rash, how to prevent it, and how to stop it from spreading, you can keep your baby’s bottom happy and healthy.

Understanding Common Causes of Diaper Rash

Diaper rash can appear suddenly out of nowhere for several reasons:

• Prolonged exposure to moisture – Wet diapers left on too long can irritate the skin.
• Introduction of new foods – New foods (in your baby’s or mom’s diet if breastfeeding) can lead to changes in your baby’s stool, potentially causing irritation or an allergic reaction.
• Changes in products or routine – Switching to a different brand of diaper, wipe, soap, lotion, or cream can introduce harsh ingredients that irritate delicate skin.
• Bacterial or yeast infections – These can develop in the warm, moist diaper area.

8 Tips on How to Prevent Diaper Rash

1. Change diapers frequently – Change your baby’s diaper as soon as possible after every bowel movement.
2. Create a clean changing area – Use a safe, clean surface for diaper changes, keeping dirty diapers away from surfaces that are hard to clean. After each change, wipe up any mess, sanitize with disinfectant wipes, and let air dry.
3. Clean skin gently & thoroughly – Gently clean your baby’s skin, paying attention to folds of the skin, and wiping from front to back.
4. Allow airflow – Give your baby some “diaper-free” time to allow their skin to breathe, and ensure their bottom is dry before putting on a new diaper.
5. Use properly sized diapers – Make sure diapers fit well to avoid chafing and leaks.
6. Apply diaper cream –Use diaper rash cream or ointment to treat existing rashes and to protect and nourish the skin. Try applying at every diaper change to prevent new rashes from forming in the first place.
7. Fasten diaper correctly – Ensure the diaper covers your baby’s bottom completely and the fasteners are secure but not too tight.
8. Wash your hands – Have clean hands before you touch your baby’s bottom to prevent germs from getting onto baby and causing irritation. Also, always wash your hands thoroughly after each diaper change.

 How to Stop Diaper Rash From Spreading

Recognizing early signs of diaper rash allows for prompt treatment. More frequent diaper changes and thorough cleaning can help. Use appropriate creams based on the type of diaper rash your baby has. Need help determining what type of diaper rash your little one has? Check out Diaper Rash 1-2-3 for descriptions and causes of different types of diaper rash. 

By following these tips and maintaining a consistent diapering routine, you can minimize the risk of diaper rash and help ensure your baby’s comfort and health, plus you might save yourself some worry and headaches along the way.