Redness in washable diapers
Coralie Mabouledecouche
Diaper rash often worries parents: is it due to moisture, detergent, or an irritating material? The good news is that these irritations are preventable. With a compatible diaper cream and a suitable care routine, baby's skin stays healthy and protected. Here are some best practices to adopt to prevent and soothe diaper rash naturally.
Summary
Why use washable diapers to prevent diaper rash
Cloth diapers are gentle on baby's skin, but certain conditions can cause irritation: prolonged dampness, insufficient rinsing, or non-breathable materials. Preventing redness helps maintain baby's comfort and the diaper's performance.
💡 For a complete routine, discover our guide on laundry detergent compatible with washable nappies and the stripping method .
The main causes of irritation
1. Excess laundry detergent residue
Laundry detergent that is too concentrated or not rinsed properly can leave irritating deposits on the fibers.
- Use of an unsuitable or perfumed detergent;
- Insufficient rinsing cycle;
- Solution: opt for a gentle detergent suitable for washable nappies.
2. Excessive humidity
Humidity is the primary cause of skin irritations.
- Keep skin dry thanks to a protective suede veil ;
- Change baby every 2 to 3 hours;
- Allow the skin to breathe between diaper changes.
3. Chemicals in laundry detergents
- Avoid laundry detergents containing optical brighteners, fabric softeners or industrial glycerin;
- Opt for a laundry detergent that is dermatologically tested and free of perfume and dyes.
4. Friction and irritants
An elastic band that is too tight or a synthetic material can create mechanical irritation.
- Opt for natural fabrics: organic cotton, bamboo, hemp ;
- Check the fit of the elastic bands on the thighs.
5. Acidic stools and teething
During teething, stools become more acidic and irritate the skin more.
- Change your baby immediately after each bowel movement;
- Apply a barrier cream free of mineral oils and industrial lanolin.
Effective solutions to prevent redness
- Perform regular cleaning to remove detergent residue and limescale;
- Choose a cream (with calendula, light zinc or vegetable glycerin);
- Avoid using oily liniment on a daily basis;
- Rinse thoroughly and use a suitable detergent;
- Leave baby without a diaper for a few minutes each day to allow the skin to breathe.
Tips to protect baby's skin
- Alternate the materials to observe skin tolerance;
- Apply a thin layer of protective cream at each diaper change;
- Use a washable liner to avoid direct contact with the fibers;
- Rinse your diapers thoroughly to remove any residue;
- If redness persists, perform a Swoosh Test to check for possible clogging.
FAQ – Redness and cloth diapers
Do washable nappies cause more redness than disposable ones?
No. Redness mainly appears in cases of humidity, insufficient rinsing, or unsuitable detergent. With a proper routine, cloth diapers are actually gentler on the skin.
What cream should I use with washable nappies?
Choose a washable diaper cream without mineral oils, based on calendula or light zinc oxide. It protects without leaving a residue.
How to avoid redness during teething?
Change your baby immediately after a bowel movement and apply a thin layer of protective cream. The protective layer also helps limit contact with acidic stools.
Is liniment compatible with washable nappies?
No, its oily film can clog the fibers. Opt for a light cream or a gentle cleansing water.
How do I care for my diapers to avoid irritation?
Rinse in cold water, wash for a long time at 40–60 °C, use a suitable detergent, and dry thoroughly. A monthly deep clean maintains the effectiveness and softness of the fabric.
Conclusion
Redness with cloth diapers is not inevitable. By combining a compatible cream, a suitable detergent, and frequent diaper changes, you can provide your baby with optimal comfort and healthy skin, day after day.
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