A good Nappy changing routine really is the key to keeping your little one happy and free from nappy rash. Your baby’s skin is thinner than that of an adults, more absorbent and with a higher pH leaving it prone to irritation. Nappy rash is caused when this delicate skin comes in contact with irritating chemicals in urine and feces. This is then further agitated by a tight nappy which causes friction and prevents air circulating.

So, to help prevent nappy rash, make sure to follow this 5 step routine:

1. Always be prepared

As a new mother, you’ll spend a lot of your time changing nappies so preparation is key. Make sure your changing bag is fully stocked at all times with the following essentials;

• Spare nappies
• Wet wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Plastic or biodegradable bags to dispose of used nappies
• Changing mat
• Spare clothing and bibs
• Bepanthen ointment

2. Let your baby’s skin breath

While trying to prevent nappy rash, it’s important to let your baby kick their legs without a nappy as much as possible. Make sure the room is warm and there is a towel or nappy on stand-by for any little accidents.

3. Change nappies frequently

It’s vital to stop stale urine being in contact with your baby’s delicate skin so make sure to change your baby’s nappy frequently.

4. Clean the area thoroughly

There are no shortcuts with nappy changes, ensure the whole area is cleaned and then allowed to dry completely before applying Bepanthen.

5. Ensure nappy is loose enough for some air to circulate

Make sure that firstly your baby is wearing the right size of nappy and secondly when putting on a new nappy allow enough room for some air to circulate.

Nappy rash prevention begins with a good skincare routine to reinforce and support the skin’s barrier.  Clinical midwife Margaret Merrigan Feenan recommends applying a thin layer of Bepanthen ointment on clean dry skin at every nappy change. Bepanthen contains Provitamin B5 which has a hydrating and soothing effect on the skin and helps the skin repair its natural protective barrier. It is also free from perfumes, preservatives and antiseptics and is so gentle that it can be used at every nappy change and on newborn babies. The ointment comes highly recommended by a panel of international paediatric dermatologists. Bepanthen is also celebrating winning two gold awards, best baby skincare category at the Boots Maternity and Infant awards in addition to the best baby cream at the National Parenting Product Awards.

This article has been sponsored by Bepanthen
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