Diapers make life much easier for parents. But if you use them incorrectly, you can face unpleasant consequences. For example, a leaking diaper or irritation on the baby's skin. YokoSun talks about the most common mistakes when using baby diapers, and also shares tips on how to avoid them.
Error 1: Wrong size selection
The wrong diaper size is much more inconvenient than it might seem at first glance. A diaper that is too small will put pressure on the tummy, leak, and even cause skin irritation due to the tight fit. Parents often miss the moment when to switch to a larger size - as a result, marks from the elastic band remain on the skin.
How to avoid: Focus on the child’s weight - manufacturers always indicate what size the baby’s weight corresponds to. If the child’s weight approaches the extreme size bar, it is better to switch to a larger size in the line. Observe the fit and moisture content of the diaper. Rub marks on the tummy after removing the diaper are a sure sign that a larger size is needed. If after three to four hours of wearing the diaper is wet, then the absorbent substance is no longer enough and the baby needs larger diapers.
Mistake 2: Infrequent diaper changes
Despite the fact that diapers can actually provide several hours of dryness and absorb even loose stools, infrequent changes can be harmful to health. If your baby drinks a lot, the diaper will fill much faster. And prolonged contact of skin with urine and feces leads to irritation and even dermatitis.
How to avoid: Change the diaper every 3-4 hours and immediately after the baby has had a big or small pee, do not allow unnecessary skin contact with feces. It is convenient to monitor the filling of the diaper using moisture indicators - they will change color after the diaper is full.
Mistake 3: Putting the diaper on incorrectly
If you put the diaper on incorrectly, it will leak and squeeze. Most often, parents pay little attention to Velcro - as a result, it is fastened asymmetrically, too tightly or, conversely, too loosely.
How to avoid: Make sure the diaper waistband is straight, not reaching your belly button, about a centimeter below. The waistband should not puff up, and the frills should not be wrapped inside the diaper. Velcro should be fastened symmetrically and fit within the mark to which the fasteners should reach. If the Velcro does not reach it or is further away, this is a reason to change the size to a larger or smaller one.
Mistake 4: Cream and powder without a doctor’s prescription
It is widely believed that using diaper cream or powder is literally necessary. Supposedly this is the only way to prevent diaper rash and irritation. In reality, everything is a little different. Powder can dry out your baby's skin and, as a result, cause irritation. Cream that protects the skin can also cause harm if used too often.
How to avoid: A breathable diaper solves the problem of diaper rash and irritation - one that does not create a greenhouse effect inside. Choose diapers that consist of several layers and with air channels - this will allow air to circulate inside.
Do not use powder or cream unless prescribed by a doctor. Instead, provide proper care for your coffee: washing it when changing a diaper without harsh cleaning agents, short-term air baths.
Mistake 5: Non-hypoallergenic diaper
Baby skin is much thinner and more sensitive than adult skin. Therefore, it is more susceptible to allergic reactions: the skin turns red, itches, and in worst cases even painful ulcers. This risk should definitely be excluded.
How to avoid: Choose hypoallergenic diapers, the production of which does not use chlorine (often used to bleach cellulose) and fragrances. Manufacturers indicate information about the composition on the packaging or official website. Thus, in the production of YokoSun diapers, fluff pulp is used; it is not subject to chemical bleaching. They also contain a Japanese absorbent that absorbs even liquid stool and a cellular layer that distributes moisture inside the diaper.
These mistakes are easy to avoid if you follow the recommendations for use, carefully monitor your baby's behavior and conditions, and choose diapers that really care about your baby's comfort.