Most babies will end up getting diaper rash at one time or another. Fortunately, in most cases, there is no serious harm done. Aside from some discomfort for baby, the biggest symptom is tired parents (from dealing with a fussy, uncomfortable baby). The good news, however, is that most cases of diaper rash can be prevented. Here are some things you can do to avoid diaper rash:

1. Make sure that you’re not putting her diapers on too tightly. Many cases of diaper rash are the result of diapers that are too snug around baby’s legs and bum. You should be able to comfortably insert two fingers into baby’s diaper at the legs.
2. Change diapers regularly. The most common cause of diaper rash is skin exposure to urine in the diaper. The sooner you change baby after she has wet her diaper, the better.
3. Change diaper brands if you notice diaper rash forming. Often, a change of diaper brand will help. Some babies have an allergic reaction to one brand of diaper or another.
4. Consider changing to cloth diapers. Babies diapered with cotton diapers are significantly less likely to develop diaper rash than those who are diapered with disposables. Babies in disposable diapers are a full seven times more likely to get diaper rash.
5. Allow baby to go without a diaper for a while after you clean her up. Let her bottom air out a little bit.
6. Consider using a clean washcloth with warm water instead of diaper wipes, which sometimes irritate babies’ skin.
7. Use a baby skin cream with zinc oxide.
8. Avoid using baby powders. Corn starch can create yeast problems, and talcum powder can cause respiratory problems. Additionally, powders don’t significantly reduce the chances of diaper rash.
9. Use gentle, unscented detergent for washing baby diapers and clothing.
10. For older babies, giving them cranberry juice can reduce the acidity of baby’s urine, which can reduce the chances for diaper rash.

While there is nothing you can do to completely eliminate all chances that your baby will have diaper rash, doing some or all of the suggestions listed above significantly reduces the chances that your baby will have diaper rash. If your baby does get diaper rash, following the suggestions can help reduce its duration.

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