Help - My Baby Has a Diaper Rash
Many pediatric professionals, including Child Health Centers and pediatricians, highly recommend cloth diapers for babies prone to skin sensitivity and diaper rash. Contrary to popular belief, cloth diapers provide far better breathability than disposable ones, which hardly allow any airflow. Moreover, the temperature inside a disposable diaper is notably higher compared to cloth diapers. Nevertheless, diaper rashes can still sometimes occur with cloth diapers. Here’s a comprehensive guide detailing the potential causes, preventive measures, and remedies for those little red rashes.
Causes of Diaper Rash with Cloth Diapers:
- Infrequent Diaper Changes: Not changing diapers frequently can lead to skin irritation.
- Prolonged Exposure to Feces: Particularly with breastfed babies, feces can be corrosive if left in contact with the skin for too long.
- Incomplete Drying During Diaper Change: If the baby's skin isn't dried properly, it becomes prone to rashes.
Preventive Measures for Diaper Rash:
- Regular Diaper Changes: Ensure you’re changing diapers more frequently to avoid prolonged moisture exposure.
- Thorough Drying: Be meticulous in drying the baby's skin, especially in the crevices and groins, to prevent irritation.
- Air Time: Let your baby have some diaper-free time daily, allowing their skin to breathe.
- Add Baby Oil: Incorporate a dash of baby oil into the water you use for cleaning during diaper changes. This provides an additional protective layer against irritants.
Remedies for Red Rashes:
- Diaper-Free Time: Allow your baby to spend as much time as possible without a diaper. This gives the irritated skin a chance to heal faster.
- Change Diapers More Frequently: Ensure that the baby's skin is less exposed to moisture.
- Nappy Cream: Apply Weleda's nappy change cream to soothe and heal the rash.
- Consultation: If the rash persists, worsens, or if you're concerned, always consult with your BVC or pediatrician.