Tips for Buying Non-Irritating Diapers

If someone were to ask you the most important article of clothing that you put on your baby, your head will more than likely be filled with visions of cute outfits or tiny socks. The correct answer, however, would be the diaper. How it fits and what it's made of will make all the difference when it comes to your baby's mess being contained. Yes, the diaper is undoubtedly the most important article of clothing you will put on your baby. If your baby has sensitive skin, choosing the correct diaper becomes an even more crucial decision.

First and foremost, make sure the diaper fits your baby properly. Use the weight suggestions on the package, but also keep in mind your baby's body type. The diaper should be snug, but should not cut into your baby's belly or around his or her legs. These are areas where moisture already tends to accumulate, and adding a diaper that is too tight only locks in the moisture, causing a rash or even a yeast infection.

Pay attention to labels. Most diapers contain fragrance--perfumes to help mask the not-so-good odors and help keep your baby smelling fresh and clean. These, along with chlorine, dyes and other chemicals, can cause skin irritations and rashes on your baby's hind parts. Use diapers that are fragrance-free and contain all-natural ingredients. There are many diapers claiming to be made for sensitive skin, stating they are hypoallergenic. However, many of them still contain fragrance, so they may not help with your baby's delicate skin.

Look at how the diaper is made. Make sure it is made of breathable material, meaning it allows air to circulate. Consider diapers that contain a liner that absorbs moisture. This keeps your baby's bottom dry, keeping rashes and irritation at bay. Many diapers made for newborns contain a wetness indicator. This strip down the center of the diaper changes color, allowing you to be better able to tell when your baby needs to be changed. Changing a wet or soiled diaper as soon as possible helps keep sensitive skin from breaking down.

If you've exhausted every brand of non-irritating diaper on the market, and your baby's skin is still irritated, take a look at the other products you use to clean your baby. For instance, many brands of wipes, lotion, soap and detergents also contain the same perfumes, dyes and chemicals. Using scented baby wipes to cleanse your baby during diapering may be the culprit if your baby has a rash.

In the end, the best way to deal with your baby's sensitive skin is to go green with the products you use. Anything used to clothe or clean your baby should be gentle and all-natural. Non-irritating diapers, wipes and soaps will help assure that your baby's skin stays as soft as the day he or she was born.