Nappy Rash: What It Is and How to Soothe It
A Gentle Parent’s Guide to Baby’s Most Common Skin Struggle
One moment your baby’s skin is soft and smooth, and the next — angry, red, and sore around their nappy area. If you’ve just discovered your first (or fifth) case of nappy rash, you’re not alone.
At Neutral Nest, we believe in gentle care and responsive parenting — especially when it comes to your baby’s sensitive skin. Nappy rash is common, treatable, and not a reflection of anything you’ve done wrong. Let’s walk through what it is, what causes it, and how to calm it with kindness.
What Is Nappy Rash?
Nappy rash is irritation or inflammation in the area covered by a nappy — typically the bottom, genitals, and upper thighs. It can range from a few red patches to widespread soreness, and sometimes broken or blistered skin.
It may look like:
Red or pink patches on the skin
Warm, inflamed areas that seem sore to touch
Tiny spots or raised bumps
Baby seeming uncomfortable or crying during nappy changes
While it can look alarming, most cases are mild and respond well to gentle care.
What Causes Nappy Rash?
Nappy rash is usually caused by prolonged contact with moisture, especially wee or poo. Other contributing factors include:
Infrequent nappy changes
Sensitive or broken skin
Friction from tight-fitting nappies
Certain baby wipes or products
Antibiotics (for baby or breastfeeding parent)
Teething, which can lead to more acidic poos
Switching to solid foods, which can alter stool consistency
Every baby’s skin is different — what triggers one may not affect another.
How to Soothe Nappy Rash
1. Change Nappies Frequently
Keep your baby’s skin as dry and clean as possible. Change nappies:
Every 2–3 hours (or sooner if wet/soiled)
Immediately after a poo
During or after night feeds if needed
2. Use Plain, Gentle Products
Warm water and soft cloths are often enough — avoid fragranced or alcohol-based wipes when skin is sore.
Pat dry gently — don’t rub.
Our Neutral Nest muslins are perfect for drying or cleaning without irritation.
3. Apply a Barrier Cream or Ointment
Use a zinc-based cream or natural balm to create a protective layer between baby’s skin and moisture.
Choose something:
Fragrance-free
Hypoallergenic
Thick and soothing, not sticky or greasy
Apply at each nappy change to help skin heal and prevent further irritation.
4. Give Baby Nappy-Free Time
Air helps heal. Let your baby have some nappy-off time each day — even 10–15 minutes at a time helps.
Place a towel or muslin under them, and let them kick freely (and maybe have a little mess — that’s okay!).
5. Avoid Over-Washing or Scrubbing
Over-cleaning can strip natural oils and delay healing. Be gentle and resist the urge to use lots of different creams or treatments unless advised by your health visitor or GP.
When to Seek Advice
See your GP or health visitor if:
The rash worsens or spreads
It lasts longer than 3–4 days without improvement
Blisters, pus, or open sores appear
Your baby develops a fever
You suspect thrush (nappy rash with white patches or doesn’t respond to barrier creams)
They may suggest antifungal creams or other treatments.
Can You Prevent Nappy Rash?
Yes — to some extent. While almost all babies will experience it at some point, you can reduce risk by:
Changing nappies often
Letting skin breathe daily
Using breathable, natural-fibre nappies or liners
Avoiding heavily scented wipes and products
Applying a thin layer of barrier cream preventatively
And most importantly: respond to what your baby’s skin is telling you. If something seems to irritate, pause and switch to something simpler.
Final Thoughts
Nappy rash can be uncomfortable — for your baby and for you emotionally. But with calm care, simple changes, and a little time, it usually resolves quickly.
You’re not doing anything wrong. Your baby isn’t too sensitive. You’re just navigating a normal part of early life with love and attention.
At Neutral Nest, we’re here to support you with gentle essentials and reassuring guidance — because even the red, rashy days deserve softness.