How To Avoid Nappy Rash

Avoiding nappy rash (diaper rash) is all about keeping your baby’s skin clean, dry, and protected. Here’s a simple, effective guide to help you prevent it:

🧼 1. Change Nappies Frequently

Change wet or dirty nappies as soon as possible—don’t wait.
Babies with sensitive skin may need changes every 2–3 hours or after every feed.

🧽 2. Clean Gently But Thoroughly

Use warm water and a soft cloth or fragrance-free baby wipes.
Avoid wipes with alcohol, fragrance, or harsh chemicals.
Pat dry instead of rubbing.

🌬️ 3. Give Skin Some Air Time

Let your baby go without a nappy for 10–15 minutes a few times a day.
Lay them on a towel or waterproof mat during this time.

🧴 4. Use Barrier Creams

Apply a protective layer with every nappy change:

Zinc oxide creams (like Sudocrem, Desitin)
Petroleum jelly (like Vaseline or Aquaphor)

🟡 Tip: Don’t wipe off all the cream with every change—just remove soiled parts and reapply as needed.

🚫 5. Avoid Irritants

Steer clear of scented detergents, wipes, soaps, and lotions.
Use mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent for cloth nappies and baby clothes.

🩲 6. Choose the Right Nappy

Use highly absorbent diapers that pull moisture away from the skin.
Consider trying a different brand if a rash keeps recurring.
For cloth nappies, ensure thorough rinsing to remove detergent residue.

🚼 7. Be Extra Careful During Teething or Illness

These times may bring more acidic stools or diarrhea, increasing rash risk.
Increase diaper changes and barrier cream use during these phases.

🚨 When to See a Doctor

See a pediatrician if:

Rash doesn’t improve after 2–3 days of care
You see blisters, oozing, or open sores
Rash appears in skin folds (possible yeast infection)
Your baby has a fever or seems in pain