How to Prevent Nappy Rash to Keep Your Baby Happy & Healthy

Nappy rash is common in all babies and typically happens when the delicate skin around your baby’s nappy area becomes irritated. Most babies with mild nappy rash don’t feel any discomfort at all, but more severe cases can cause your baby’s bum to feel sore.

Usually, nappy rash will clear up on its own within three to four days, however if your little one is suffering from regular outbreaks, read on to find out how to prevent nappy rash quickly and effectively.

Nappy rash usually starts when your baby’s skin is in contact with wee or poo for a long time, as this can lead to irritation and chafing. We understand that life as a parent can get super busy, and sometimes it can be difficult to keep on top of the constant nappy changes - however, changing your little one’s nappy as regularly as possible will help to protect their skin. Read our piece on five time management tips and techniques for new parents for more advice on juggling everything!

If you’re currently pregnant and are unsure what to expect, new-born baby’s nappies will need changing around 10 or 12 times a day and as they get older, their nappies will need to be changed at least six to eight times a day.

Keep your baby’s bum as clean as possible by making sure you clean the whole nappy area gently but thoroughly, wiping from front to back. Using warm water and cotton wool will be kind on your baby’s skin, but if you opt to use baby wipes for convenience, we recommend fragrance-free and alcohol-free wipes.

If you’re wondering how else to avoid nappy rash, steer clear of harsh products that may irritate their skin, such as fragranced bubble bath, detergent, and talcum powder.

Bath time is a great opportunity to spend some quality one-on-one time with your baby! Talking to them as you wash them, counting their tiny toes and even getting some toys to play with together, will help to make bath time a fun and special experience for both of you! Bathing your baby every day will remove irritants and possible bacteria which may have built up during the day. Make sure to dry your baby gently after washing them to prevent any further chafing!

Avoid bathing them more than twice a day as this could dry out their skin and make the area sore.

After your baby has been bathed or changed, lie them on a towel and leave their nappy off for as long as you can to let fresh air get to their skin. Your baby will love this nappy-free time and will enjoy being able to kick their legs in the air unrestricted by a nappy!

After removing your baby’s used nappy, clean and wash the affected area, dry with a soft towel and dab a small amount of our Mitosyl Protective Ointment onto the affected areas. It has been specifically formulated to soothe and treat your baby’s delicate skin - and is vegan-friendly too!

All you need is a pea-sized amount of the ointment, so make sure to squeeze the tube very gently; this will help you to keep it in good condition as well as saving product. To make your Mitosyl product last longer, you should also wipe around the neck of the tube after each use, clean away the residual product and close the cap tightly. Then, when you put your baby’s nappy on, make sure it isn’t too tight and leave some breathing room.

If your baby's nappy rash is spreading or getting worse, contact your GP or healthcare visitor for professional advice.

As parents, it can be easy to forget about nappy rash until your baby is experiencing the symptoms - as a new-born parent especially, we understand you have enough on your plate!

However, adding a small prevention step into your baby’s daily skincare routine can help protect their skin from nappy rash and prevent any disruption to your family. Nappy rash can be painful for your baby and may disturb their sleeping or eating patterns, so it’s best to nip it in the bud. 

We hope this article has revealed how to stop and prevent nappy rash to keep your little one happy and healthy. Do you have any other questions about nappy rash? What tips would you like to hear from us? Let us know on Instagram or Facebook. Alternatively, check out our guide on the Seven Triggers of Nappy Rash or visit our Everyday Advice Hub for more information.

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