Nappies & nappy rash

You can use either cloth or disposable nappies, or you can use both! Here’s what you need to know about both nappies, and baby’s nappy rash.

You will need at least 24 cloth nappies and some nappy pins.
Cloth nappies are reusable, so you need to clean, wash, dry, and fold them.
Washing nappies is easier if you use a nappy liner.
Using ‘over nappies’ will help keep your baby’s clothes dry.
Some cloth nappies are shaped to fit your baby, and have Velcro or snap closures so they don’t need nappy pins.
They also come in a range of sizes.

They are convenient, easy to use, and are absorbent, so they keep the baby’s skin dry.
You will need a constant supply of disposable nappies, as they are not reusable.
Good-quality disposable nappies have a breathable cover to allow air flow through the nappy and around the skin.
Breathable covers help to keep the skin drier and prevent skin irritations and nappy rash.
Disposable nappies protect against leaking as they have special elastic waist and leg bands for a snug fit.
Disposable nappies come in a range of sizes to suit your baby.

Nappy rash is common, because a baby’s skin is sensitive. Here are some ways to heal nappy rash:

Lie your baby on a change mat or blanket on the floor, without a nappy on. Air helps heal the rash.
Use a warm, wet cloth to wash your baby’s bottom - some baby wipes that contain alcohol and soap can cause dry skin or make the rash worse.
Greasy ointments such as Vaseline, or zinc and castor oil creams can help.
Use soap flakes, nappy-wash powders or liquids to wash nappies.
Rinse nappies twice to get rid of the soap or nappy wash.
Dry them in the sun and wind.

Talk to your midwife, Plunket nurse, or pharmacist about other treatments.