What Are Some Ways to Avoid Summer Diaper Rash?

Any parent of a newborn will tell you that preventing diaper rash is an ongoing fight where constant vigilance is needed. Although you can probably manage diaper rash without a doctor visit, it can still be a painful process for the baby and for you. And if the rash does become infected, a visit to the doctor’s office will be necessary.

There are a number of causes of diaper rash. One of the most common cases is wetness. Even if you buy the most absorbable diaper, it won’t clear moisture away completely. If your baby is experiencing diarrhea, the combination of that with urine can be especially irritating to the baby’s skin. Leaving a baby with a soiled diaper for too long can also lead to diaper rash.

Other causes of diaper rash include a bacterial or yeast infection, chafing, and introducing new foods to the baby’s diet.

Why Is Diaper Rash More Prevalent in the Summer?

The weather is heating up, which might not be the best thing for your baby’s bottom. If you are sweating from your forehead, your baby may be overheated as well, and this could lead to more moisture in the diaper area. In addition to that, people are often more distracted in the summer months. There are summer vacations, barbecues, and other activities that can cause new parents to not change their baby’s diaper as frequently.

So what can you do to prevent summer diaper rash while enjoying some great family time under the sun too? First and foremost, know that prevention is the key. Frequent diaper changing is a must. If you do find yourself getting distracted, set a timer. You may also want to use talc-free baby powder. In regard to cleaning your baby during a changing, you should dry your baby’s bottom completely by patting the skin dry. You can also use ointment if your baby is prone to diaper rash.

In addition to these and other tips for prevention, consider the type of diapers you buy. If your baby is getting diaper rash often, you may want to consider changing the type of diaper you are using. Shop for baby diapers that offer as much absorption as possible. Also, please know that some instances of diaper rash are caused by chemical irritants. If this is the case with your baby, you will want to buy diapers that do not include those chemicals.