Diaper rash is a common form of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as a patchwork of bright red skin on your baby’s bottom.

Diaper rash is often related to wet or infrequently changed diapers and skin sensitivity. It usually affects babies, though anyone who wears a diaper regularly can develop the condition.

Diaper rash can alarm parents and annoy babies. But it usually clears up with simple at-home treatments, such as air drying, more frequent diaper changes and ointment.

(information taken from the Mayo Clinic @ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636)

RELIEF REMEDIES:

1. Remember to “AIR THEM OUT”! As soon as you spot a little redness or skin change near the bottom when wiping- leave the diaper off for a few minutes before putting a new one on & even longer if you have time! If it’s somewhat cold swaddle your baby at the top only and allow the bottom area to be open to some air with the diaper OFF! Babies most likely won’t pee right away! Another idea is to lay your baby on a large towel and engage in some playtime while he or she is bare-bottomed.

2.We all know cloth diapers are breathable, allowing air to flow freely through them. Cloth allows a constant air movement providing a natural, dry environment without the harsh chemicals found in disposables next to your baby’s skin. In most cases, rashes are “gone with the wind”. And, the most important thing to remember is to always change a baby AS SOON as they pee or poop. Leaving them in the dirty diaper worsens rashes and can lead to a worsening infection, such as a bacterial or yeast infection.

3.For your cloth diapers use FREE and CLEAR Detergents not containing any dies or perfumes. They don’t have to be the expensive ones on the market specifically for cloth diapering! The idea with cloth diapers is to stay away from dies and perfumes and many budget friendly brands work exactly the same and you can buy them while you do your other shopping! To name a few- Tide free and clear, Dreft, All Free and Clear, Kirkland free and clear- and there are many, many others. The goal is to stay away from added dies and perfumes, which bother a newborn and even toddlers delicate, maturing skin! Their skin is more delicate than ours and is why they are easily at risk for a rash!

4.If you suspect a rash is coming on or may potentially happen- USE AN OINTMENT! Don’t wait! If they’re pooping a lot, especially a breast fed baby in the first 2-3 weeks after birth, or when a color change is slightly suspected apply one:

Some natural options! These natural options work the best and won’t put a hole in your wallet!

• Apply an ointment, like Burt’s Bees (my favorite) and follow with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. The cornstarch sticks to the ointment so the ointment doesn’t rub off on your nice cloth diaper. Or, lay a baby washcloth between the cloth diaper and ointment to prevent the ointment from getting on the cloth diaper.
• Coconut oil– This favorite oil is naturally antimicrobial and anti-fungal. It also gives a nice layer of protection. It is reasonable in price and can be found at grocery stores. Remember to follow with cornstarch or use a washcloth to protect cloth diaper from absorbing any oil! 
• Olive oil– This oil is also fabulous for soothing the skin, and is even better at moisturizing rough skin. It provides a nice barrier so that baby’s bum can heal. Remember to follow with cornstarch or use a washcloth to protect cloth diaper from oils!