As a parent, seeing your little one in pain from a diaper rash is heartbreaking. Fortunately, there are effective creams that can bring fast relief.
We’ve been there, too, and understand that not all diaper rash creams are created equal. We’ve gathered insights from medical professionals, parents, and caregivers to provide you with the most comprehensive information. After extensive research on the causes and treatments of diaper rashes, we’ve created a guide to help you find the best cream to prevent and soothe diaper rashes.
Our Top Picks
Motherlove Diaper Balm
This gentle diaper balm is a natural remedy that does not include zinc oxide, petroleum, or any petroleum-derived products. It aids in reducing discomfort caused by diaper rash in babies and restores a healthy yeast balance.
The balm comprises organic plant extracts, including Oregon grape root and myrrh gum, which are naturally antifungal and antibacterial, making it ideal for a baby’s delicate skin. It is quickly absorbed, leaves no sticky residue, and can be used with cloth, bamboo, and disposable diapers.
Pros
- Creates a breathable barrier
- Contains extra-virgin olive oil
- Heals dry skin
Cons
- May stain fabric
TriDerma Baby Diaper Rash Healing Cream
This cream is a wonderful option for your baby’s delicate skin. It has been specially formulated to help relieve stubborn diaper rashes and soothe skin irritation such as cracks, redness, itching, and inflammation. Moreover, it can be used by anyone of any age dealing with skin rashes.
This diaper rash cream contains natural, gentle ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, shea butter, almond, coconut, and jojoba. It creates a non-greasy, moisturizing barrier that helps to heal and protect delicate skin. It is also cruelty-free and paraben-free, and safe for use with cloth diapers.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Prevents yeast infection
- Positive results within 24 hours
- Safe for sensitive skin
Cons
- Tube may not be user friendly
Desitin Maximum Strength Baby Diaper Rash Cream
This formula is hypoallergenic and free from parabens, phthalates, dyes, and soap, making it an ideal gentle option for everyday use. It has been dermatologically, and pediatrician tested and approved, providing further assurance.
Despite being gentle, it still provides maximum strength in treating diaper rash. It contains 40% zinc oxide, effectively treating and preventing diaper rash discomfort.
It’s an excellent choice for overnight use as it can provide relief for up to 12 hours, which can help alleviate your little one’s discomfort during the night. Hence, we highly recommend trying it out.
Pros
- Maximum strength.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Treats and prevents.
Cons
- Thick formula is hard to spread.
Sun Bum Baby Bum Diaper Rash Cream
Sun Bum Baby Bum diaper rash cream is a natural ointment made with zinc oxide that can help prevent diaper rash and alleviate chafing. It’s gentle enough for most skin types and helps create a protective barrier that blocks moisture while soothing irritated skin.
This cream is enriched with shea butter, cocoa butter, and aloe vera extracts that provide essential nutrients to the skin, leaving your baby’s bottom feeling soft and supple.
Pros
- Plant-based, vegan formula
- Talc-, preservative-, and dye-free
- No added fragrance
- Hypoallergenic formulation
- Paraben- and phthalate-free
Cons
- Some might not like the thick consistency
- Some may find it a tad oily
Sweetsation Therapy Chamomile Chubstick Diaper Ointment
This Chamomile diaper ointment is perfect for providing immediate relief to your baby’s skin rashes caused by diapers. Including zinc oxide, lavender, and chamomile extracts adds a gentle fragrance and helps reduce irritation by naturally creating a barrier between the skin and the diaper.
This ointment treats existing diaper rashes and prevents new ones from occurring. It is free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and dyes, making it an ideal option for use with cloth diapers.
Pros
- Multipurpose ointment
- No synthetic chemicals
- Provides a soothing sensation
- Made of 100% natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free and non-GMO
Cons
- Might leave a stain
Dr Brown’s Natural Baby Diaper Cream
This baby diaper cream is crafted with all-natural ingredients to safeguard your baby’s delicate skin from rashes. It can be applied daily as a preventative measure against future rashes. The cream features seven plant-based ingredients that work together to soothe the skin and reduce redness and irritation caused by diapers.
The cream creates a protective barrier on your baby’s bottom and spreads smoothly over the skin to moisturize it. It is free from harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, petroleum jelly, and phthalates, ensuring it’s gentle on your little one’s skin.
Pros
- Cloth diaper-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Refreshing formula
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May have a thin consistency
La Petite Creme French Organic Diapering Lotion
La Petite Creme diaper lotion creates a gentle, lustrous layer on your baby’s bottom, helping to keep the skin soft and moisturized. Its natural ingredients, including beeswax, olive oil, and glycerin, reduce existing rashes and prevent new ones from forming.
This unscented, organic lotion is suitable for use with all types of diapers and is specially formulated for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Long-lasting and travel-friendly
- Cloth diaper-friendly
- Free of chemicals
- Includes disposable cotton pads
- Nourishing
Cons
- May leave a slight residue on the skin
Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Zinc Diaper Cream
This diaper cream is grain-free and is crafted with nourishing ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and cocoa butter. It is perfect for daily use and can help reduce diaper rashes on your baby’s skin.
The cream is designed to soothe irritation on your child’s sensitive skin while creating a gentle, moisturizing barrier that promotes healing and prevents the formation of new rashes.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Plant-based ingredients
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Cloth diaper-friendly
Cons
- Some may not like the grainy texture
Tips for Choosing the Right Diaper Cream
Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a diaper cream
Type of Rash
If your baby is experiencing a regular diaper rash, you can choose a conventional diaper cream or ointment. However, a standard product won’t suffice if it’s a yeast rash, and you’ll require an antifungal cream.
Formulation type
Diaper creams are typically designed to treat minor rashes, but some ointments can be used as a preventative measure. Pastes are also effective for soreness and rashes.
Ingredients
It is recommended to choose diaper creams containing mild, natural ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin and have a soothing effect. Vitamin E, calendula, aloe vera, and jojoba oil are skin-friendly ingredients to look out for.
Compatibility
Consider whether the diaper cream is compatible with cloth diapers and can treat rashes on any part of the body. Some diaper creams are versatile in their application.
Cloth Diaper Creams FAQS
Are cloth diaper creams different from regular diaper rash creams?
Yes, cloth diaper creams are specifically formulated to be compatible with cloth diapers, as some traditional diaper rash creams contain ingredients that can damage or stain cloth diapers.
How often should I apply cloth diaper cream?
Cloth diaper creams should be applied at every diaper change, especially if your baby is experiencing a rash.
Can cloth diaper creams be used as a preventative measure?
Yes, some cloth diaper creams can be used as a preventative measure to keep your baby’s skin healthy and rash-free.
Can cloth diaper creams be used on other body parts besides the diaper area?
Yes, cloth diaper rash creams can be used on other body parts to soothe and heal rashes or other skin irritations.
Finding the right diaper cream for your cloth-diapered baby is important to prevent and treat diaper rashes effectively. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide.
However, by reviewing the top-rated diaper creams for cloth diapers and considering the frequently asked questions, parents can make an informed decision and keep their baby’s skin healthy and rash-free. Always consult a healthcare professional if a rash persists or worsens despite treatment.