Treating Diaper Rash Naturally

If you use cloth diapers, you have already made a decision to go the more natural route where your baby is concerned. Not only are there natural ways to diaper your baby, but there are also natural remedies to use in case diaper rashes should occur. Here are some ideas:

Let baby air out
Taking off the diaper and allowing baby to lie naked on a towel or blanket as often as possible may clear up rash. You can also pin on a cloth diaper loosely so air can circulate.

Clean baby with water and cloth wipes
Commercial baby wipes contain chemicals and perfumes that can irritate baby's skin, predisposing him to rash or making an existing one worse. Cleaning baby with water and cloth wipes (or using a mild natural soapy solution for messy changes) is preferable.

Use natural detergents for diaper laundry
Residues left in commercial detergents may be harsh, drying baby's skin. Switch to a natural detergent and do a double rinse.

Change baby frequently
For a time, go on hyper alert and change baby's diaper quickly each time it gets soiled. Urine and fecal matter can burn baby's skin and cause painful rash. This is especially true as baby begins eating solid foods. Breastfed babies generally have fewer episodes of rash. If you're bottlefeeding and baby's rash is persistent, talk to your pediatrician about changing the formula.

Try a diaper change.
In addition to changing baby frequently, try using a different kind of diaper altogether. Some babies who experienced chronic rash with disposables will do much better with cloth diapers. Or at least switch to perfume-free, natural disposables like the ones made by Seventh Generation, Tushies, MotherNature or Nature Boy & Girl.

Treat thrush (yeast infection)
Thrush is a common cause of diaper rash. Following the above tips will help, but if it persists, talk to your pediatrician. He may recommend an antifungal medication safe for baby. You can also try Gentian Violet, available at many drugstores. Ask your doctor for recommendations. A baking soda wash (one Tablespoon dissolved in a half cup of water) may also help. Pat it on baby's bottom with cotton balls after each change.

Acidophilus is safe for babies and can help combat yeast, especially a rash that may appear after baby has taken antibiotics. Ask a health care provider to recommend a brand and dose.

Use a bottom balm
Try a diaper rash cream made from natural ingredients to help form a barrier, keeping waste away from baby's skin. Look for calendula, Vitamin E and evening primrose oil in the list of ingredients. Burt's Bees and Weleda are excellent brands.

Talk to your Doctor
Persistent rash (especially if it's a "bulls eye" around the baby's bottom) can be a symptom of food allergy. Your doctor may recommend an elimination diet to help you find the culprit. Often babies outgrow their sensitivities at around age 3 and you might be able to reintroduce the food then.