They are available in vast range of sizes, shapes and qualities. They are more expensive than washable nappies. They are more absorbent. A disposable nappy can last from 4 to 8 hours. It has an adjustable waist which is essential for a reasonable fit.

b. Washable Nappies
Some parents still swear by washable terry nappies. If you are equipped to launder and dry them they will cost less money in the long run as compared to disposable nappies.
Cloth nappies are certainly better for the child since the child's bottom gets more air making it more comfortable and reducing the chance of diaper rash. Washable nappies must be soaked in chemicals nappy sterilant.



DIAPER RASH

Reason for Diaper Rash

There is a good reason why your baby is not sitting on a pretty bottom. Exposed as it is in the nappy area to high moisture, little air, a variety of chemical irritants and infectious organisms in urine and faeces. Nappy rash can remain a problem as long as baby is in nappies butincidence usually peaks between 7 to 9 months when a more varied diet is reflected in the more irritating nature of stools.
Aggressive and frequent cleansing of the nappy area with detergents and soaps can increase the susceptibility of an infants skin.
The exact mechanism responsible for nappy rash isn't known but is believed that it begins by the chronic moisture and is further weakened by friction caused by the chafing of the nappy.


TYPES OF NAPPY RASH

The term 'nappy rash' describes a number of different skin condition in the nappy area. They are as follows :

1. Chafing Dermatitis
This is the most common form of nappy rash. It is seen as redness where friction is greatest. It generally comes and goes causing little discomfort

2. Perianal Dermatitis
This is usually occurs in a bottle fed baby. It is seen as redness around anus usually caused by the alkaline stools

3. Atopic Dermatitis
This usually begins between 6 months to 12 months of age. It may turn up in other parts of the body first and the rash is itchy.

4. Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
This is a deep red rash, often with yellowish scales, which begins on the scalp, though it can start in the nappy area and spread upward.

5. Candidal Dermatitis
This usually appears in the creases between the abdomen and thighs. It is an uncomfortable rash, bright red and tender

Impetigo
It is caused by a bacteria.
It can be two different forms
a. bullous i.e. large, thin walled blisters that burst and leave a yellow brown crust
b. non bullous i.e. thick yellow crusted scabs and a lot of redness

It can cover thighs, buttocks, lower abdomen and may spread to other parts of the body.

Intertrigo
This usually occurs as a result of rubbing of skin on skin. This rash appears as a poorly defined reddened area. In infants it is usually found in the deep inguinal folds between the thighs and lower abdomen and often in the armpits.


6. Tidemark Dermatitis
It occurs due to friction caused by the edge of a nappy rubbing against the skin.


PREVENTION OF NAPPY RASH
   
1. Less Moisture
To reduce moisture on skin, change nappy as often. Keep the nappy area dry and clean.

2. More Air
Expose the baby's skin to air. Keep your baby bare bottomed part of the time placing her on a plastic mat to protect the surface below.

3. Fewer Irritants
Try to expose your baby to fewer irritants such as soaps. Soaps can dry and irritate the skin so use it only one daily. Baby soaps are generally recommended.
Use cotton wool with water instead of wipes. Wipes contain substances that irritate your baby's skin. Be careful to pat baby dry after washing

4. Different Nappies
Of your baby has recurrent rash, change the brand of nappies.

5. Protecting Baby's Skin
Spread thick protecting layer of ointment such as Desitin, Zinc Oxide, Sudocrem on baby's bottom after washing it will prevent urine from reaching it.