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Diaper rash is an awful problem that affects almost all babies. It occurs due to the warm, moist and enclosed environment in the diaper. The rashes can be due to the bacteria build up in the diaper’s unhygienic environment.

Infrequent diaper change, skin allergies, humid weather, poor laundering and new materials used in the diapers can irritate sensitive skin. These are some of the factors that contribute to rashes. The rashes can be quite painful for the baby and the problem can turn worse if you do not change the diapers frequently.

Although it is not a serious medical condition, diaper rash can cause discomfort and pain to the little ones. Fortunately, there are a number of effective and gentle home remedies that soothe the baby’s bottom.

Home Remedies for Diaper Rash

Corn Starch

The crumbly and powdery texture of corn starch will help in keeping the skin dry. It also soothes and cools the skin and prevents the growth of bacteria. You can also mix it with petroleum jelly and this paste is applied to the skin to get rid of moisture.

Vinegar

Ammonia is released by the bacteria present in the urine. Urine is alkaline and can easily irritate the sensitive skin of the baby leading to rashes. White vinegar is quite effective in neutralizing the alkaline state and hence a great home remedy.

In case, you are using cloth diapers, you could use white vinegar (1/2 cup) in the rinsing water while washing the diapers. In case, disposable diapers are used then mix white vinegar and water in the ratio of 1:8 and use this mixture to wipe the baby’s bottom before changing the nappy.

Baking Soda

The healing properties of baking soda help in curing diaper rash quickly. Dissolve baking soda (2-3 tbsp) in warm water (3-4 cups). Use this solution to wash the little one’s bottom.

Then using another dry cloth gently pat the skin before strapping the diaper again, as you will need the solution for the whole day, you can prepare it in the morning and store in a container for the day. Make sure that every time a clean and dry washcloth is used to avoid contaminating the solution.

Oatmeal

This is an effective remedy to soothe and protect your baby’s sensitive skin. Add dried oatmeal (a few tablespoons) to the warm bath water. Apply a little butt cream and then air dry before putting on a diaper.

Olive Oil

Mix water (5 drops) with olive oil (1 tbsp) and whisk them together until you obtain a creamy and smooth texture. Apply this mixture to the area affected by rashes and allow it to air dry before putting on the diaper.

Aloe Vera

This is one of the age old remedies for diaper rash. This remedy will quickly heal the rashes. Scrape out the sap from the leaf of the Aloe Vera plant with the help of a knife.

Clean the diaper area thoroughly and after it dries spread the aloe gel directly on the affected skin. It will not only soothe and heal the soreness, but also relieves pain. Apply ointment or Vaseline before diapering to shield against moisture.