Diaper rash — red, irritated skin in the diaper area — affects most babies at some point. It’s usually caused by moisture and friction plus contact with pee and poop. The fix is simple and works for most rashes within a few days: change diapers often, clean gently, let the skin air-dry, and apply a thick layer of zinc oxide or petroleum barrier cream.
Key takeaways
- Change wet or dirty diapers promptly, including at night if the rash is bad.
- Clean with warm water or fragrance-free wipes, and pat dry.
- Apply a thick barrier cream at every change — like icing a cake; no need to wipe it all off.
- Give diaper-free time on a towel when you can.
- A bright red rash with spots at the edges, lasting more than 2–3 days, may be yeast — see your pediatrician.
Common causes
- Prolonged contact with pee or poop, especially diarrhoea.
- Diapers that are too tight and rub.
- New foods, which change stool acidity.
- Antibiotics (for baby or breastfeeding parent), which can lead to yeast rashes.
- Fragrances or alcohol in wipes, soaps or detergents.
Treatment routine
- Change more often — every 2–3 hours by day and as soon as you notice poop.
- Clean gently: warm water and a soft cloth, or alcohol- and fragrance-free wipes. Avoid scrubbing.
- Pat dry and let the skin air for a few minutes.
- Apply barrier cream thickly: zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.
- Size up or loosen the diaper if it’s tight. Our diaper calculator suggests a size by weight.
Types of rash
| Type | What it looks like | What helps |
|---|---|---|
| Irritant (most common) | Red, shiny skin where the diaper touches; creases often spared | The routine above |
| Yeast (candida) | Bright red, raised, with small “satellite” spots; often in skin folds | Antifungal cream from your doctor |
| Allergic / contact | Rash matching where a product touches | Switch wipes, diapers or detergent |
| Bacterial | Blisters, crusts, pus or yellow scabs | Needs a doctor — may need antibiotics |
Prevention
- Frequent changes and a thin layer of barrier cream as routine.
- Fragrance-free products; rinse cloth diapers well.
- Diaper-free time during play — a waterproof mat under a towel makes this easy.
See your pediatrician if the rash
- doesn’t improve after 2–3 days of treatment;
- has blisters, pus, open sores or yellow crusts;
- comes with a fever or your baby seems unwell;
- spreads beyond the diaper area.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use baby powder?
Not recommended — babies can inhale it, and cornstarch can feed yeast.
Cloth or disposable — which causes fewer rashes?
Either works if changed often. Disposables wick moisture well; cloth needs frequent changes and thorough rinsing.
Are wipes okay on a rash?
Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes or plain water while the skin heals.
More newborn care basics in our newborn care guide.
