Diaper rashes can be a little scary if you've never dealt with one before. And before you blame yourself for your little one's rash, it is likely due to nothing you did! Diaper rashes can be caused by moisture, friction, infections, allergic reactions, food sensitivities, and more. It's important to start treatment as soon as you notice signs of a diaper rash. Let's go over my tried-and-true methods to healing diaper rashes.
What to Do First
- Clean and DRY the area gently.
- Pat the area dry, don't use a wiping motion.
- Let baby go diaper-free as much as possible to let the area air out.
- Avoid any scented wipes or soaps.
- Avoid changing laundry detergent or diaper brand while treating diaper rash.
Diaper Routine for Healing Diaper Rash
- Wet a washcloth (we love these muslin washcloths!) with warm water and gently clean baby's bottom. Try to avoid wiping as much as possible as this can irritate the rash.
- Pat baby's bottom dry with a dry washcloth. You want to prevent moisture on the affected area.
- If possible, allow baby to be diaper free to let the area air out.
- Put on a THICK layer of diaper cream (Desitin Maximum Strength is our favorite). I find it best to use a diaper cream spatula to apply the cream.
- Put clean diaper on baby.
Other Tips:
- If you are nervous about letting baby be diaper free, let baby lay on a puppy pad for easy clean up.
- In between diaper changes don't wipe off remaining diaper cream if possible. Depending on severity of the rash, it can further irritate it. Ensure the area is clean and apply a new layer on top of existing layer.
- Change baby frequently to ensure healing and prevent further irritation.
- Make sure diapers fit correctly and aren't too small.
- Letting baby soak in a bath can provide them some relief.
- Keep an eye out for infection and call your doctor immediately if you notice any!
- Yeast and fungal rashes are not treated quite the same as diaper rashes, you will likely need a prescription cream if your baby is experiencing one of these. If you are unsure which type of rash baby has, schedule an appointment to get baby seen.
Final Thoughts
Diaper rashes are extremely common and happen to the best of moms. Remember, it is likely nothing you did wrong. Some babies are more prone to diaper rashes and some babies never get a diaper rash so don't compare your experience to someone else's. The diaper rash will not go away overnight; it takes time and proper treatment. If you follow these simple tips, your baby's diaper rash will be gone in a few days. If you have any other diaper rash treatment tips, leave them in the comments for fellow moms try out!
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