Guide for New Parents on Nappy Hygiene and Nappy Rashes

Parents often choose disposable nappies as they are easy to use and change, once you select the appropriate size for your baby. On the other hand, if you choose reusable nappies it is very important to wash them thoroughly keeping in mind the nappy hygiene.

nappy hygiene

Washing the reusable nappies for nappy hygiene:

  • Any fecal bacteria could cause infection or any traces of ammonia from urine could irritate the baby’s skin.
  • Always use pure soap, soap powders or liquid detergents to avoid any irritations caused due to biological powders or strong detergents.
  • You need to have at least 24 nappies if you are using fabric nappies and also the nappy liners.
  • Make a routine to wash the reusable nappies to make your life easier.
  • Keep two plastic sterilizing bins with strong handles and bins – one for the wet nappies and the other for the soiled nappies and the liners.
  • Fill the sterilizing bins with the sterilizing solution each morning.
  • Rinse the wet nappies in cold water before adding it to the respective bin.
  • In case of soiled nappies, remove as many feces as possible with the lavatory spray down the lavatory and flush it. Squeeze it and put it into the bin kept for soiled nappies.
  • Now wring them out after soaking it for the required time.
  • The urine nappies should be rinsed thoroughly in hot water and then dried.
  • Soiled nappies need to be washed in the hot mode, rinsed and then dried.
  • Along with the nappies sterilize, wash and dry the nappy liners too.
  • Dry the nappies outside in the sun as it bleaches out the stains if any.
  • You can opt for nappy laundry services for a weekly fee but you need to buy more nappies for the same.

Nappy Rash:

Nappy rash is caused when the traces of ammonia from urine irritates and burns the skin. When urine is left onto the baby’s skin for too long, it is broken down to ammonia by bacteria. Thus, small red dots appear on your baby’s bottom, it is a mild nappy rash. If you see an inflamed area of broken skin or pus-filled spots, it becomes serious and you need to consult a doctor. Breastfed babies are less prone to nappy rash as compared to bottle-fed babies.

Nappy Hygiene Preventive Measures for Nappy Rashes:

  • Change the baby’s nappies more often.
  • Nappies should be thoroughly washed, rinsed and sterilized before each use.
  • Keep your baby’s skin dry and well-aired.
  • If your baby sleeps throughout the night, you can use a disposable pad for extra absorbency inside a toweling nappy.
  • If your baby has nappy rashes, it is necessary to get his skin exposed to air for at least 15-20 minutes.
  • As soon as you see the broken skin start using a nappy rash cream. Immediately stop using the plastic pants as they prevent the urine evaporating.
  • Do not use soap and water to wash the baby’s bottom with a nappy rash.
  • Use one-way nappy liners to keep your baby’s skin dry.
  • Generously apply a thick barrier cream on the nappy rash.
  • Make sure you remove all the traces of ammonia by thoroughly washing and rinsing the nappies.
  • Leave your baby’s bottom open to the air whenever feasible for you.
  • Never leave your baby lying in a wet nappy.

Have more tips to add on nappy hygiene? Please share with us in the comments section below.

Wish you a very Happy and Hygienic Parenting!

 

 

Divya

Divya is a writer, who loves to read and write. She is a Company Secretary by profession. She is passionate about art, reading, writing, music, and creativity. She loves to do research on ‘Parenting’ and discover new things now and then. Her passion about positive parenting pushed her to write on ‘Wonder Parenting’. Her loving daughter, Vachie, helped her to dig deep and reach new heights on Parenting. She believes that ‘Parenting is Patience’ and shares her own journey to express that parenting approach differs for every individual.
Simple Living High Parenting!

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