Many parents think they can’t use diaper creams if they are using cloth diapers. With diaper cream offering serious protection and relief from diaper rash, this is a scary prospect. Luckily, there are some diaper creams that are suitable for cloth diapers. You just need to know how to spot them. We are here to help you choose the right diaper cream to work with your cloth diapers.
Why Some Diaper Creams Don’t Work with Cloth Diapers
If you are using cloth diapers, you may think you can just use diaper cream in the same way as with disposable diapers. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Some diaper creams work by forming a protective barrier on the skin to stop moisture from causing a rash. When this is rubbed on a cloth diaper, it can also create a barrier. This can cause the diaper to become less absorbent and lead to diaper rash.
Diaper creams containing petroleum or heavy oils are more likely to cause a buildup.
This can be hard to wash out and can ultimately lead to a rash. It can also reduce absorbency. Product buildup can also make the diapers smell unpleasant and shorten their lifespan.
What Makes a Diaper Cream Safe for Cloth Diapers
Luckily, there are diaper creams out there that can be successfully used with diaper creams. Some things to look out for are:
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a natural mineral that can be very effective at treating and preventing diaper rash. It is particularly good at preventing further outbreaks of diaper rash. This is because it works by creating a protective barrier on the skin to stop moisture from irritating the skin. However, it’s important to note that this can transfer to the diaper and reduce its absorbency. If you are applying zinc oxide and using a cloth diaper, make sure you apply a thin layer and use it in moderation.
Avoid Petroleum, Mineral Oils, and Waxes
Look for diaper creams that don’t contain petroleum, mineral-based oils, or waxes. These will be listed on the ingredients. Creams that are made with these ingredients are likely to cause a buildup or affect absorbency.
Look for Natural Butters and Non-staining Ingredients
Natural ingredients will be less prone to buildup on cloth diapers. Ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil will moisturize and protect the skin without affecting the cloth diaper’s efficiency. They also won’t cause any staining, extending the lifespan of the diapers.
Best Practices for Using Diaper Cream with Cloth Diapers
Using a suitable diaper cream can improve the effectiveness of cloth diapers, but there are also other things you can do.
Use Liners
Using diaper liners is a great way to use diaper cream and cloth diapers. Liners are usually made from paper or fleece. These sit inside the diaper and stop the skin and diaper cream from coming into contact with the diaper. This reduces the amount of buildup while keeping your baby’s skin protected.
After use, paper lines can simply be thrown away. Fleece lines are absorbent and breathable. They can also tolerate harsher washing conditions to remove buildup.
Tailor Your Washing Routine
Adapting your washing method can greatly increase the lifespan of cloth diapers and reduce the buildup of diaper cream. First, begin by washing them in a cold water cycle to help remove any dirt. You can then wash them on a hot water cycle with a good amount of detergent. It is also a good idea to wash them as soon as you can after use to avoid stains.
Protect Your Baby’s Skin in Other Ways
Although diaper creams are effective in treating and preventing diaper rash, there are other things you can also do. You should change diapers as soon as they become soiled to reduce moisture exposure. You can also switch to a lighter diaper cream, which won’t affect the diaper’s absorbency as much.
Best Diaper Creams for Cloth Diapers
There are lots of suitable diaper creams that can be used safely with cloth diapers. You should look for a cream that contains mostly natural ingredients. It is best to avoid any that contain petroleum or heavy oils, as these will cause buildup and stains.
If your baby suffers from diaper rash, look for one with a low-to-moderate amount of zinc oxide. Dr. Talbot’s Diaper Rash Ointment contains 18% zinc oxide, which will treat and prevent diaper rash. It will still be effective when spread thinly or used with a diaper liner.
Diaper creams containing shea butter and beeswax will also be safe to use with cloth diapers. They will still offer effective relief from diaper rash.
How to Apply Diaper Cream Without Causing a Buildup
If you prefer not to use liners, you can also minimize buildup when using a cloth diaper.
Thin Layer
If you are applying creams that contain active ingredients like zinc oxide, applying a thin layer will stop it from damaging the diaper. If your baby suffers from severe or frequent diaper rash, make sure you are repeating the application frequently.
Targetted Application
To avoid affecting the diaper, you can also apply the cream only to the areas that are red or rash-prone. This will reduce the amount of diaper cream coming into contact with the cloth diaper.
Use a Diaper Brush
One of the best ways to apply diaper cream is by using a brush, like Dr. Talbot’s Silicone Diaper Brush. It allows you to apply a thin layer to the areas that most need it. It also means you don’t have to use your hands for extra cleanliness.
What to Avoid in Diaper Rash Creams for Cloth Diapers
As well as good practices and washing methods, there are some things you should avoid when choosing a diaper cream to use with cloth diapers. You should look for a cream that doesn’t contain petroleum or cod liver oil, as these will reduce the cloth diaper’s ability to absorb moisture.
You should also make sure you check the ingredients before purchasing. Just because a cream claims to be ‘natural,’ doesn’t mean it is free from these ingredients that damage cloth diapers.
Conclusion
Finding the right diaper cream will help you have a successful experience with cloth diapers, as well as protect your baby’s skin. Choosing the wrong one will damage the diaper, causing leaks and unwanted odors.
When choosing a diaper cream, it pays off to spend extra time reading the labels and knowing which ingredients to avoid. This is especially true when you are using cloth diapers.
If you want more articles and tips about parenting and caring for your family, take a look at our Mom Blog and Wellness Blog.
FAQs
Can I use any diaper cream with cloth diapers?
No, as some diaper creams will contain ingredients that can reduce the diaper’s absorbency.
Is zinc oxide okay for cloth diapers?
Yes, but use sparingly and ideally with a liner.
Do I need a liner every time I use diaper cream?
This depends on the type of diaper cream. If it is cloth diaper-safe, you don’t need to use a liner. Otherwise, yes, as it is a good idea to protect the cloth diaper’s absorbency.
