Diaper Rash: What Causes It — and How to Help Prevent It

Diaper rash is one of those things nearly every parent encounters — often sooner than expected. You can change diapers faithfully, keep wipes nearby, and still notice redness appearing out of nowhere. If that’s been your experience, you’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong. Diaper rash is incredibly common, especially in newborns and young babies whose skin is still adjusting to life outside the womb.

Dr. Lyndsi Davenport, DO, an internal medicine physician and mom of three, reminds us that, “Baby skin is still developing and far more absorbent than adult skin.” According to her, diaper rash is often less about something parents are doing wrong and more about how sensitive a baby’s skin truly is in those early months. The good news? With gentle care and clean essentials, most diaper rash can be soothed — and often prevented.

Baby skin is still developing and far more absorbent than adult skin. Diaper rash is often less about something parents are doing wrong and more about how sensitive a baby’s skin truly is in those early months.

Why Do Babies Get Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash rarely has a single cause. More often, it’s the result of several everyday factors working together — especially during the newborn stage.

Common causes include:

• Moisture that stays against the skin for extended periods
  

• Contact with urine and stool, particularly during longer stretches between changes
  

• Naturally sensitive or still-developing skin
  

• Allergic reaction diaper rash, often triggered by fragrances, dyes, or added lotions
  

• Normal changes like teething, illness, or diet shifts that affect digestion
  

Because baby skin is thinner and more permeable than adult skin, irritation can appear quickly — even with attentive care.

How to Help Prevent Diaper Rash

Preventing diaper rash doesn’t require an elaborate routine. In fact, many pediatricians and physicians agree that simpler routines are often more effective.

A few gentle habits to keep in mind:

• Change diapers regularly, especially after bowel movements and overnight

• Clean the diaper area gently — wiping softly instead of scrubbing

• Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin

• Let skin breathe when possible, even for a few diaper-free minutes

• Support overall skin health beyond diaper changes
  

Dr. Davenport says prevention starts with ingredient awareness:

“I encourage families to think about what touches their baby’s skin all day long. Removing unnecessary ingredients like fragrances and dyes and keeping routines simple can make a meaningful difference for sensitive skin.”

Many parents find it helpful to simplify diaper changes by choosing the EveryLife Diaper & Wipe Bundle, which delivers EveryLife Diapers and EveryLife Wipes straight to your door. Made without added fragrances or harsh ingredients, they help keep baby’s skin clean, dry, and comfortable — an important step in preventing diaper rash.

Caring for Baby’s Skin Beyond the Diaper

Diaper changes are only one part of daily skin care. Bath time and moisturizing also play an important role in supporting a healthy skin barrier. Gentle cleansing and nourishing moisture help protect baby’s skin over time, making it more resilient to everyday irritation. EveryLife’s Suds Bundle, which includes our Baby Wash and Lotion, offers simple, nourishing care designed to keep baby’s skin clean, soft, and supported — without unnecessary ingredients. Dr. Davenport often reminds parents that skin is not just a surface — it’s an organ. Supporting it consistently, even outside of diaper changes, can help reduce common skin concerns like diaper rash.

When to Check In With Your Pediatrician

Most diaper rash improves with gentle care and time. It’s always okay to reach out if:

• The rash doesn’t improve after a few days
  

• You notice sores, oozing, or spreading redness
  

• Your baby seems especially uncomfortable
  

Trust your instincts — they’re part of caring well for your child.

Thoughtful Care, One Diaper Change at a Time

At EveryLife, we believe caring for babies isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up with love and choosing products that support your baby’s health and comfort. Diaper rash may be common, but with clean essentials and gentle routines, you can do your very best to keep your baby happy, comfy, and rash free. 

Lyndsi Davenport, DO, is an internal medicine physician, wife, and homeschooling mom of three. She also loves "EveryLife Diapers.