My baby has a rash

Babies do get rashes from time to time but cloth nappies are usually not the cause. If there is a rash, check below to see the cause and find the solution.

Wet nappy rash

Wetness rashes can occur if the nappy is too wet. It is usually a light pink, blotchy looking rash that appears only on the areas where the nappy touches (not between the bum cheeks).

How wet is too wet?

Is the entire nappy saturated? No dry patches? This is often an indication that the nappy needs more layers to distribute the wetness and is likely the cause of the red rash. A damp nappy should feel like a wrung out face cloth. Not soaking wet.

Solutions:

Add a Pokkeleokkie booster to the nappies. If using flats, use a booster within the nappy and then lay another one between nappy and cover.

If using day or night fitteds, add the booster between nappy and cover like above. This reduces the bulk.

Use a fleece liner which creates a stay dry effect on the bum. This will only work if the nappy has enough absorption to cope, otherwise the wetness will seep through.

(Dry) Maizena powder rubbed on the bum is a wonderful solution and works very well and is cloth safe. Place a changing mat under baby to prevent mess.

Wet wipe rash

Store bought wet wipes are often full of nasties. This rash mirrors the bum wipe- between the cheeks. It`s red and raw looking. 

Stop using wet wipes and switch to the Wipey reusable cloth wipe/ face cloths.

Wet elastic rash/welts/red lines

This rash appears as red like welts where the elastics of the cover sit, usually inner thighs.

This means the nappy is not coping (is far too wet) and needs more absorption. Opt for fully absorbent nappies, like flats or fitteds as opposed to a non fully absorbent style of nappy. Boost the nappy and swop out the type of cover. Opt for our fleece bound Superwraps which are designed to prevent this happening.

Thrush (not nappy related)

This rash is bright red and consists of small, red like spots between bum cheeks and around private areas. It is very persistent and does not go away. It is very common in babies under a year old. Easily treated. Please consult a chemist/nurse to get treatment.

Stop using cloth nappies, strip them and wait for the thrush to clear before moving back to cloth. Flats can be used through thrush IF properly hot ironed before every use. Spores of thrush hang onto cloth nappy fibres and if continued, will reinfect.

Teething rash (not nappy related)

Solutions

Keep nappies as dry as possible. Change regularly and add extra boosters until the rash gets better. It does pass.Sometimes a cream such as Bepathen/ Fissan paste can help. Use fleece liners to protect the nappy. (Dry) maizena powder rubbed on the bum is a wonderful solution, works very well and is cloth safe. The powder dries it out. Place a changing mat under baby to prevent mess.