Diaper Rash

What is diaper rash?

Diapers, because they are warm and often wet, are good places for bacteria to grow. This can cause diaper rash. Diaper rash can occur no matter what kind of diaper you use. It is more common after solid foods have been added to the diet and when diapers are not changed often enough . Diaper rash may also occur when a child has diarrhea, is on antibiotics, or wears plastic pants. It occurs most often in the 9 to 12 month age group.

How can I prevent diaper rash?

Here are some ways to prevent diaper rash:

Change the baby's diaper when you know it is wet or soiled. Exposure to stools causes most of the skin damage. When the baby has a rash, change the diaper every hour.
Pat your baby's bottom completely dry before closing the fresh diaper. Do not use a blow dryer to dry your baby's bottom.
Give baby's bottom some "air time" each day. Leave a diaper off for at least 15 to 20 minutes at a time. This could be done before a bath, during a nap, or after a bowel movement. Put a towel or diaper under your baby.
Fasten the diaper loosely so that air can circulate between it and the skin.
Rinse the baby's bottom with clear water. Use mild soap, like Dove, only after bowel movements. Rinse well after using soap.
Food allergies can cause a diaper rash. Babies who eat solid foods may develop allergies. Try only one new food a week.
Use a diaper liner if you use cloth diapers.
If you are using cloth diapers, use cloth diaper covers that allow air circulation. Avoid plastic pants.
If you wash your own cloth diapers, use a mild soap or detergent and double rinse the diapers to get out any soap residue. Do not wash diapers with other clothing and do not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Bleach the diapers to kill any germs.
At night, use disposable diapers that lock wetness away from the skin. Change the diaper once during the night.

How can I help my child?

If your baby does get a diaper rash, increase daily "air time," and use a diaper rash cream that contains zinc oxide, such as Desitin or Balmex, to protect the skin from further irritation. Petroleum jelly may also be used. Using larger-sized diapers may also help. Avoid scented disposable wipes.

When should I call my child's health care provider?

Sometimes a more serious skin infection can develop that will need further treatment. Contact your baby's health care provider if the rash:

develops into sores or does not get better in 3 days, or
becomes bright red, covers a large area, and is surrounded by red dots.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File CHL3718F.HTM Release 9.0/2006