5 Ways to Soothe Diaper Rash Naturally
Diaper rash. Ugh, the worst, right? If you're a mom like me, you've probably seen those red, irritated bum-bums and felt your heart break a little. I'm Lora, mom of two and founder of Bonobo Baby, and I've been there more times than I can count. Diaper rash is so common, it's practically a rite of passage! But after lots of trial and error (and some serious mom tears), I've found 5 natural ways to soothe diaper rash that actually work. Plus, I'll share my secret weapon: the Bonobo Baby Bidet. Let's get those little bums happy again!
Tip 1: Rinse With Water Instead of Rubbing
First up, let's talk about using water alongside your wipes. Wipes are a diaper change staple, but they can sometimes irritate sensitive baby skin, especially if they've got alcohol or fragrances. The American Academy of Pediatrics says cleaning with water "may be less painful than wiping if the skin is irritated," and suggests using "a squirt or spray bottle of water for severe rashes, if possible, to rinse without rubbing" (HealthyChildren.org). Water gently cleans without rubbing that rashy bum raw, and you can still use your wipes to finish the job. I used to carry a spray bottle for this, but it was such a hassle. More on my fix for that later!
Tip 2: Air-Dry the Bum After Changes
Moisture is diaper rash's best friend, so let that bum breathe! After cleaning with water and wiping, pat the area gently with a soft cloth (no rubbing!) and let your baby go diaper-free for 10-15 minutes. I'd lay my little ones on a towel and let them kick around. It's like a mini spa day for their bum! This helps dry out the skin and avoids that damp environment where rashes thrive. Bonus: it's a great time for some tummy time or snuggles.
Tip 3: Use a Barrier Cream with Zinc Oxide
A good barrier cream is a must. Look for one with zinc oxide, like Desitin or Boudreaux's Butt Paste. They're like a shield for your baby's skin. Zinc oxide helps protect against moisture and irritation from urine or poop, which are the main culprits behind diaper rash. I'd slather on a thin layer after every change when my babies were rashy, and it worked wonders. Just make sure the skin is clean and dry first (see Tip 1!) so you're not trapping moisture underneath.
Tip 4: Change Diapers Frequently
I know, diaper changes feel never-ending, but keeping that bum dry is key. The longer your baby sits in a wet or soiled diaper, the more likely a rash will flare up. Aim to change diapers every 2-3 hours, or right after a poop. Don't let it sit! I got into a rhythm with my kids, and it made a huge difference. Pro tip: keep a stash of diapers in every room so you're never caught off guard. Less time in a wet diaper means less chance for irritation.
Tip 5: Try the Bonobo Baby Bidet, My Go-To Fix
Here's where my secret weapon comes in: the Bonobo Baby Bidet. This little device secures to most wipes packs, like Huggies, Pampers and WaterWipes, and spritzes a gentle mist of water to clean your baby's bum. It makes it easy to follow that water-first advice at every change, making your wipes even gentler. I love how it reaches those tricky spots (especially for my baby girl!) and wipes away cleanly. No soaking, just soothing. Since using Bonobo, I've used way fewer wipes, and changes are so much gentler.
If your baby's rash is severe, has blisters or open sores, or isn't getting better with home care, check with your pediatrician.