How to Avoid Diaper Rash
It's a myth that baby's bottom will always be rash free. The constant wetness and friction with the diaper contributes to red, irritated and uncomfortable skin. The good news is that diaper rash is not typically serious and is preventable. Keep your baby clean, cool and dry. Follow these steps to avoid diaper rash.
Instructions
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Change soiled diapers immediately. Change baby's diaper every two hours, depending on your baby's delicate system, liquid intake and overall health. You may need to change the diaper even more frequently.
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Try out different brands and scents of wipes, too. Just as diapers fit and protect differently, wipes can have a wide range of protectiveness as well. You may find your baby is sensitive to strong scents.
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Wipe thoroughly. Remove all traces of urine or stool, wiping front to back on baby girls. If the diaper is simply wet, sometimes simply patting the skin clean works well to prevent skin irritation and avoid diaper rash.
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Incorporate diaper changes into your baby's daily routine. For example, change right when she wakes up, just before nap and right after nap. Not only will your baby feel better with a clean diaper, she will enjoy the time with you!
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Use a diaper rash cream. There are two types of these "barrier" creams: petroleum ointment (Original A & D ointment) and white zinc oxide. Test different products or talk to your pediatrician to see what she recommends.
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Tips & Warnings
Experiment with different brands of diapers. Although the hospital provides you with samples when you come home, it may take several brands for you to find what works exactly for your child. Additionally, one brand may work in one size, but as your baby moves up in sizes he may require a different brand as they tend to fit differently at different ages.
Air out her bottom. Periodically let your bare-bottomed baby play on an "accident-proof" surface for some cool, fresh air.
Breastfeed as long as possible. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends nursing for the first year of life, but any breastfeeding is beneficial to your baby. It increases your baby's resistance to infections and illness.
Skip the powder. Baby powder used to be the changing table staple, but it's been shown to be harmful to baby's lungs.
