Diaper rash is one of the most common skin problems in babies. An estimated 35% of all infants get it during their first year. It looks uncomfortable, and your baby isn't feeling great. But in most cases it can be treated at home, and often it can be prevented entirely.
This guide walks through the causes, what you can do and — most importantly — what actually stops it from coming back.
What is diaper rash?
Diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, is an inflammation of the skin in the diaper area. It can look like red, irritated skin, small bumps or, in more severe cases, open sores. It develops in the moist, warm microclimate that forms inside the diaper.
It's important to tell the difference between ordinary diaper rash and a yeast infection — they look similar but are treated differently.
The most common causes of diaper rash
1. Moisture against the skin for too long
The most common cause. Urine and stool break down the skin's natural protective barrier and create an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. The longer the diaper stays on, the higher the risk.
2. Friction
A diaper that's too tight or rubs at the leg cuffs can cause mechanical irritation. This is more common with the wrong size or if the diaper isn't fitted properly.
3. Reaction to the diaper material
Fragrances, lotions or synthetic fibers/plastic in the diaper can trigger contact reactions in sensitive baby skin. Many parents notice the rash disappears when they switch diaper brands — a clear sign of material sensitivity.
4. New foods
When your baby starts on solid food, the gut flora and the composition of the stool change. This can temporarily increase the risk of diaper rash, especially when introducing acidic foods like tomato and citrus.
5. Antibiotics
Antibiotics knock out the gut flora and increase the risk of a yeast infection in the diaper area. If your baby is being treated with antibiotics and gets diaper rash — contact your child health clinic to rule out yeast.
How do you treat diaper rash at home?
• Change more often: change the diaper every 2–3 hours during the day, and right away after a poo
• Let the skin breathe: lay your baby diaper-free on a towel for a little while every day
• Clean gently: use unscented wipes or clean water and a soft cloth — no rubbing
• Barrier cream: zinc oxide cream or petroleum jelly creates a protective layer against moisture. Apply at every diaper change until the rash has healed
• Skip scented products: scented wipes, soaps and diapers can make things worse
Please note! Seek medical care if the rash spreads beyond the diaper area, has clearly defined red edges (a sign of a fungal infection), doesn't improve after 3–4 days of home treatment, or if your baby seems to be in pain or has a fever.
How do you stop it coming back?
Change diapers regularly
No diaper should stay on a small baby for more than 3 hours during the day — whether it looks full or not. The humid microclimate that builds up is the problem, not just the amount of urine.
Choose the right diaper material
If your baby is sensitive, it's worth looking at what the diaper actually contains. Synthetic plastic film against the skin traps moisture and breathes less well than natural materials. Bammies have bamboo fibers directly against the skin — many parents find them softer, they breathe more effectively, and they're free from perfume, lotion and chlorine bleaching.
The right size
A diaper that's too small chafes. A diaper that's too big leaks and doesn't sit snugly at the legs, which increases friction. Check that the diaper fits properly — two fingers at the waist, and the leg cuffs should lie flat.
Fragrance-free products across the board
It's not just the diaper — scented wipes, laundry detergent and skin creams can all contribute to irritation. Go through your whole routine if the rash sticks around.
Common questions about diaper rash
Is diaper rash dangerous?
In most cases, no — it's uncomfortable but treatable. More severe cases with open sores, fever or signs of a fungal infection should be checked by your child health clinic or a doctor.
How long does diaper rash take to heal?
Mild irritation usually clears up within 2–3 days with more frequent changes and barrier cream. If it lasts longer than 4–5 days without improving — contact your child health clinic.
Could the diaper brand be the cause?
Yes, and it's more common than many think. Try switching to a fragrance-free brand with natural materials against the skin for 1–2 weeks and see if anything changes. Many Bammies families tell us the rash disappeared within a few days of switching.