1. Nappy rash is not normal - trust your gut when you think it’s time to shake up your nappy routine
Every child is different so don’t ignore even the earliest signs that something isn’t right. We encourage you to shop around (hey, we’re Peachies, nice to meet you) until you find the best nappy brand for your little one. Compare the feel (outside and inside), fit, the amount of leaks you experience during the day or at night and, of course, skin-friendliness. Not all nappies are the same so trying multiple brands is the best way to figure out if your child is in the best nappy for their bum. We promise the search will be worth it once you land on the right brand.
2. Nappy rash, when linked to nappy wearing, is most often caused by:
- Urine touching the child’s skin for too long. This could be happening because the nappy fit is wrong and therefore when your child is wearing the nappy, they are not getting full use of the absorbent pad. Alternatively, the nappy might just not be efficient at moving liquid quickly away from the child’s skin so it’s pooling or not drying causing irritation - think of how a wet swimsuit can annoyingly rub on your skin.
- Similar to urine, diarrhoea and frequent bowel movements also can irritate skin when in contact with the baby's skin for excessive periods.
- Chafing - the nappy rubs on the child’s skin and creates irritation - when the nappy doesn’t fit correctly and/or is too tight.
Read more here on our tips for nailing nappy fit.
3. Nappy rash isn’t always caused by the nappy
We know this statement sounds rich coming from a nappy company. But it’s true. The world-renowned Mayo Clinic notes additional causes could be:
- Using a new product Your baby's skin may react to a new brand of baby wipes, diapers or a detergent, bleach or fabric softener used to launder cloth diapers. Ingredients in lotions, powders and oils might add to the problem.
- Developing a bacterial or yeast (fungal) infection What begins as a simple infection may spread to the surrounding skin. The area covered by a diaper is at risk because it's warm and moist, making a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. These rashes can be found within the creases of the skin. And you might notice red dots scattered around the creases.
- Introducing new foods As babies start to eat solid foods, the content of their stool changes. This increases the likelihood of diaper rash. Changes in your baby's diet can also increase the frequency of stools, which can lead to diaper rash. Breastfed babies might develop diaper rash in response to something the mother has eaten.
- Having sensitive skin Babies with skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or seborrheic dermatitis, may be more likely to develop diaper rash. The irritated skin of atopic dermatitis is usually in areas not covered by a diaper.
- Using antibiotics. Antibiotics can contribute to a rash by killing bacteria that keep yeast growth in check. Antibiotic use also increases the risk of diarrhoea. Breastfed babies whose mothers take antibiotics are also at increased risk of diaper rash.
Reach out to our team with hello@wearepeachies.com if you have any and all questions on nappies. We know navigating changes, fit, ingredients lists etc can be daunting and we’re happy to help!
