There has been some debate lately over whether fleece can cause diaper rash. Some parents believe that the fabric is too rough for a baby’s delicate skin and can lead to irritation and rashes. Others claim that fleece is soft and non-irritating and that it is actually the detergents used to wash fleece clothing that is more likely to cause problems.
So, what is the truth? Let’s take a look at the evidence and find out!
What Are Cloth Diapers?
Cloth diapers are an alternative to disposable diapers. They are made from cloth fibers and consist of a waterproof outer cover and two inner absorbent-layer options. The most common type of baby cloth diaper is the all-in-one, which has the waterproof layer and one of the absorbent layers sewn together.
There are several reasons why parents returned to using cloth diapers. Some parents feel that they are more environmentally friendly than disposable diapers, as they can be reused multiple times. Others find that cloth diapers can be more comfortable for their baby, as they do not contain harsh chemicals.
If you are considering using cloth diapers, it is important to do your research to find the type of diaper that will work best for you and your child.
Disposables often have high absorbency that can leave a baby feeling dry for hours. So you have to choose a cloth diaper that comes close to disposables in terms of absorbency.
There are many different brands and styles of cloth diapers available, so you will want to find the one that is right for you. You can read online reviews, talk to other parents who use cloth diapers or visit a store that specializes in them. Read our full advice section on cloth diapers including how to use cloth diapers.
Can You Use Fleece Liner for Cloth Diapers?
If you’re looking for a polar fleece or microfleece cloth diaper liner, you may be wondering if you can use fleece for cloth diaper liners. The answer is yes! Fleece makes an excellent material for cloth diaper liners because it’s soft, provides a stay dry barrier and breathable. Plus, it’s easy to wash and dry. Read our complete guide to diaper liners.
If you’re using a fleece cloth diaper liner, be sure to place it between the baby’s skin and the cloth diaper. This will help to keep your baby’s bottom dry and comfortable. Fleece diaper liners can also be used as an extra layer of protection under cloth diapers.
Can Fleece Liners Cause A Baby’s Diaper Rash?
Many parents are surprised to learn that cloth diapers can actually cause cloth diaper rash in babies. The main culprit is the superabsorbent material such as athletic wicking jersey and suedecloth used in many cloth diapers, fleece liners as well as pocket diapers, which have a tendency to suck dry the natural moisture from a baby’s skin. This can lead to dry, irritated skin, which is a perfect breeding ground for cloth diaper rash.
Why Are My Cloth Diapers Giving My Baby a Rash?
Most babies will experience cloth diaper rash at some point in their lives, regardless of what type of diapers they wear. While cloth diapers can sometimes be more susceptible to causing or worsening cloth diaper rash on a child, they’re not entirely to blame for the rash of cloth diapered babies.
If you started cloth diapering and noticed a baby’s rash, there are a few reasons why this might be the case:
Baby Wipes
Cloth diapering might not always cause diaper rash. Disposable baby wipes are often made with alcohol and synthetic chemicals, which can irritate your baby’s skin and cause bad rashes. If you’re using disposable wipes, be sure to read the label carefully and avoid those that contain alcohol or fragrances. You may also want to consider switching to a different brand that is gentler and fragrance-free.
You can also use cloth wipes instead of disposable wipes. In fact, cloth wipes with plain water are actually better for your babies. They are more gentle and won’t cause as much irritation to your baby. Store them in a wet bag when soiled and wash them the same way with soiled baby cloth diapers.
Baby’s Diet
When solid foods are introduced to a baby’s diet, the pH of their stool changes. This can cause diaper rash in two ways:
- The acidic stool can irritate the skin, leading to inflammation and redness.
- The change in pH can also disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria on the skin, leading to an overgrowth of yeast or other organisms.
Poor Hygiene
Diaper rash is a condition that can be caused by many different things, but poor hygiene is one of the most common causes.
If urine and poop remnants that contain bacteria that can irritate the skin are not cleaned properly, they can lead to cloth diaper rashes.
Poor hygiene is not the only cause of cloth diaper rashes, but it is one of the most preventable.
Remember that some babies have wetness sensitivity. This means they are more prone to developing a diaper rash if their bottoms come in contact with their own pee or anything wet.
Wash Routine
Unlike disposable diapers, you actually have to wash cloth diapers. And poor laundry routine can lead to diaper rashes.
If you use a mild detergent, no fragrances, and no bleach, your cloth diapers should not cause diaper rash. However, if you do not follow these simple washing instructions, your cloth diapers could be the cause of your baby’s diaper rash.
So what should you do to prevent diaper rash? First, make sure you are using a mild detergent in warm water, not cold water. Second, do not use any fragrances. And third, do not use bleach. By following these simple washing instructions, you can help prevent diaper rash.
Not washing diapers regularly can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi, which are two common causes of diaper rash. Cloth diapers should be washed every two to three days to prevent this from happening. If you notice your baby has a rash, make sure to check their cloth diapers first.
It is also recommended to run your cloth diapers through an extra rinse cycle to make sure all soap has rinsed out.
Cloth diapers are a great way to be eco-friendly and save money, but it’s important to take care of them properly. Regularly washing your cloth diapers will help prevent diaper rash for your baby.
Laundry Detergents for Diaper Laundry
Detergent sensitivity is not common but it can happen. If you use too much detergent or fabric softener, it can cause diaper rash. Using less detergent might not wash the diapers thoroughly enough. Read our guide to washing cloth diapers and how to strip wash diapers if you have used too much detergent.
You don’t want to use too much because it can irritate a baby’s skin, but you also don’t want to use too little and end up with a smelly mess. Just like with anything, you’ll have to experiment to see what works best for you and your baby. Remember that many detergents contain harmful chemicals.
If you’re using too much detergent, try using less and see if that helps. If you’re not using enough, try using a little more. Sometimes it takes a few tries to get it just right, but it’s worth it to avoid a rash on your baby’s bum.
If you’re still having trouble, there are other things you can try. Some people recommend adding vinegar to the wash cycle. Others say that soaking the diapers in a solution of baking soda and water before washing can help. Again, it’s all about trial and error to see what works for you.
Strong detergents can also damage diaper fabric as well as irritate your baby’s sensitive skin.
Yeast Rashes
There are three primary causes of yeast rashes: overgrowth, poor hygiene, and skin irritation. Overgrowth occurs when the yeast that’s naturally present on your baby’s skin multiplies. Poor hygiene allows the yeast to grow unchecked. And finally, skin irritation can provide an entry point for the yeast to cause a rash.
What Can You Do if a Rash Develops During Cloth Diapering?
If you are cloth diapering, it is important to be aware of the signs of a rash. By taking care of your baby’s skin and changing diapers frequently, you can help prevent rashes from developing.
Change Cloth Diapers Regularly
First, make sure you are changing cloth diapers regularly. A wet or soiled diaper can irritate the skin and cause a rash. So, change diapers often to keep your baby’s bottom clean and dry.
Use Diaper Cream
The diaper rash creams help to soothe the skin and create a barrier between the wet diaper and the baby’s skin. Many diaper rash creams contain zinc oxide, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal the rash. Petroleum jelly can also be used to treat diaper rash but it is NOT safe to use with cloth diapers. It helps to soothe the skin and create a barrier between the wet diaper and the baby’s sensitive skin.
Apply rash cream or home made natural remedies to the diaper area at each diaper change. Be sure to clean the area well before the application of the diaper rash cream.
For yeast rash, you might be prescribed antifungal creams.
Diaper-Free
Being Diaper-free gives the skin a chance to breathe; and second, it helps get rid of the moisture that can lead to diaper rash in the first place.
The easiest way is to put them on a waterproof mat or sheet during diaper changes, or during supervised playtime. This way, if they happen to go to the bathroom, it’s not a big deal.
Whatever method you choose, diaper-free time is a crucial part of treating diaper rash. By allowing your baby’s skin to breathe and stay dry, you can help prevent the painful and uncomfortable rash from developing in the first place.
Avoid Certain Foods
Acidic foods can cause more rashes. This includes highly acidic fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Avoid fruit juices, too. They’re often acidic and can irritate your baby’s bottom.
There are a few possible explanations for how acidic food could contribute to diaper rash. One theory is that when acidic poop comes into contact with a baby’s skin, it can cause irritation and redness. Another possibility is that acidic foods can change the pH balance of the skin, making it more susceptible to rashes.
Use Home Remedies
Coconut oil is one of the most popular home remedies for diaper rashes. It can moisturize dry skin which prevents further irritation.
Coconut oil and olive oil have natural antibacterial properties which can kill bacteria in the diaper area.
Conclusion
Fleece is a popular fabric for cloth diapers because it is soft, durable, and can be easily wiped clean. However, fleece has also been linked to diaper rash. If you are using fleece in your cloth diapering system, make sure to keep an eye on your baby’s skin for any signs of irritation. Alternatives to fleece include cotton flannel or wool.
