How to Prevent Nappy Rash in Newborns: A Simple Routine
The best way to prevent nappy rash in a newborn is to keep their skin clean and dry. Change nappies often, clean gently, give them some nappy-free time and leave a light barrier on the skin at every change. That's the whole routine. You don't need a cupboard full of creams.
If your baby does get a rash, don't blame yourself. Nappy rash can show up quickly and for no obvious reason, even when you're doing everything right. Between the two of us we've had four kids in nappies, and every single one has had a red bottom at some point.
Why do newborns get nappy rash?
Think about where that tiny bottom spends most of the day: wrapped in a warm, damp nappy. Wee and poo irritate the skin, and the nappy rubs every time your baby kicks. Moisture plus friction is the classic recipe for red, sore skin. Plastic covers that trap dampness can make it worse.
Newborn skin is also thinner than ours, so it reacts faster.
Our 5-step routine
- Change often, and straight after a poo. A newborn can go through eight or more nappies a day. Poo sitting on skin is the biggest irritant, so don't wait for the next scheduled change.
- Clean gently. No scrubbing. A soft pad or cloth and a light touch do the job. Fragrance and alcohol can sting tender skin, so check the label of whatever you use.
- Let the skin breathe. A few minutes of nappy-free time on a towel lets the skin dry properly before the next nappy goes on.
- Leave a barrier at every change. A barrier sits between your baby's skin and the next wet nappy. Thick zinc creams do this. So does liniment, a natural, no-rinse nappy change cleansing lotion: it cleans and leaves a light layer of olive oil and beeswax that helps protect against nappy rash, in one step.
- Check the fit. Too tight and it rubs. Too loose and it leaks. You should be able to slide a finger under the waistband.
Using cloth nappies?
The same routine applies: change often and wash nappies well. One tip from experience: thick zinc creams can build up in cloth nappies and stop them absorbing. Liniment leaves a much lighter layer, so it's an easy match for cloth.
When should I see a GP about nappy rash?
Most nappy rash settles with good care at home. See your GP if the rash:
- hasn't improved after a week of care at home
- has blisters, crusts or pimples
- is spreading
- comes with a fever, or your baby is upset and not sleeping
Your maternal child health nurse is also a great person to ask.
Quick questions
Can I use liniment on a newborn?
Yes, from the very first nappy change. It has four ingredients and no fragrance or alcohol.
Do I need a barrier at every change?
It's one of the simplest ways to help protect your baby's skin between nappies. Liniment leaves it as you clean, so there's no extra step.
Is nappy rash my fault?
No. It's very common, and it can appear even with frequent changes and good care.
New to liniment? The First Try Bundle is a small bottle and a pack of organic cotton pads for $14.90.
Sources: Raising Children Network, healthdirect. This article is general information, not medical advice.