Diaper Rash
One element of diapering that continues to escape 'change' is diaper rash. The first signs of diaper rash are small, red bumps on the lower abdomen, buttocks, genitals or thighs. Today's disposable diapers contain super-absorbent materials, which help keep babies drier, but there are other factors that can still cause diaper rash; such as teething, a change in diet, a cold or other illness, or antibiotics.

While your baby can have a reaction to disposable diapers, it's highly unlikely. Most studies have shown that diapers are usually not the cause of a rash. All of the raw materials used in White Cloud diapers have been thoroughly tested, are safety-approved to ensure trouble-free use, and have no added perfumes or dyes. All diaper manufacturers currently use similar materials and none would use any products not considered safe for a baby. However, just as adults can be allergic to certain foods or medications, some children may not be able to wear some of the materials found within disposable diapers.

Pediatricians agree that the best way to keep your baby from developing diaper rash and other infections is to change the diaper frequently and clean his/her skin thoroughly after each and every diaper change. Still, if your baby's skin does get irritated, change his/her diaper even more often, lessening the time his/her tender skin has to be wet.

If your baby seems anxious or restless during changing time, try to turn the ritual into a happy one by singing a favorite song, telling your baby a silly story or giving him/her a toy for a distraction. Change your baby on a large, clean surface, solid enough so you can hold up squiggly legs, wipe his/her bottom and get a clean diaper underneath him/her. Always keep one hand on baby when she's beginning to roll over or crawl so there's no danger of falling from a changing surface high off the floor. Babies on certain medications, including antibiotics, are more susceptible to diaper rash and yeast infections (which develop from severe diaper rash).

Change your baby even more frequently and take extra care to clean the entire area covered by the diaper. As soon as you notice diaper rash, thoroughly coat the affected area of baby's skin with a lotion, or ointment like zinc oxide, after thoroughly cleansing it with a disposable wipe that's impregnated with a soothing lotion, such as aloe.

If the diaper rash appears moist, use a talcum-free baby powder. If it is dry or flaky, use a moisturizing lotion with a soothing ingredient like aloe. Let your child go without a diaper whenever you can, whether or not she has diaper rash. If she has a rash, which doesn't improve in a few days, call your pediatrician. When babies start to eat solid food you may notice a greater tendency toward diaper rash. More frequent changes and cleansing the soiled area, and all around it, with a gentle wipe will help alleviate this problem.

All facts, data, and useful tips provided are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for medical advice.