Can Scented Diapers Be Irritating?

Diapers can be pretty gross. In the course of a year, you will have changed 2,300 diapers. Considering that diapers typically contain sodium polyacrylate, a super absorbent compound that can absorb up to 30 times its weight in urine, it is understandable that parents may want to look for diapers and wipes with a pleasant fragrance. But it is important to keep in mind that scented products often contain chemicals that can irritate a baby's skin, leading to a wicked rash and irritation. Forgoing scented diapers and wipes is probably best for your baby's sensitive skin. But don't worry, you don't have skip out on the scented diaper pail liners.

  1. Fragrance and Irritation

    • Diapers and wipes have come a long way, and since their debut in the 1960s they have become the conventional choice for most parents. But when it comes to baby's skin, less is more. The Baby Center website reports that a scented diaper typically contains citral, a citrusy-smelling mixture often found in lemon and orange oils. The fragrance is generally found between the absorbent core and the outer layers of the diaper. They say that while some babies are sensitive to citral and other perfumes in diapers, an allergic reaction is uncommon. However, chemicals in scented diapers can dry out and irritate your little one's skin, so WebMD recommends sticking to non-scented diapers and wipes, and perhaps even opting for ones made for sensitive skin. If your baby experiences irritation, you can simply use water to clean his skin. "Parenting" magazine also advises cloth diaper users to avoid fabric softeners or antistatic options, as they are irritants as well.

    Other Causes

    • Irritation can be caused by many things, as babies have very sensitive skin. If your baby sits in his diaper too long, if he doesn't have enough breathing room or if his bum is damp, his skin can become easily irritated. If your baby develops a rash, clear it up by changing him frequently; avoid wiping too harshly and use some diaper ointment per your pediatrician's recommendation. KidsHealth.org warns that if the diaper rash carries on beyond 48 to 72 hours; if you see pus, blisters or boils; or if your baby has a fever; it is time to see your doctor.

    Diaper Choices

    • There are many different diaper choices out there: brand names, store brands, budget brands and cloth diapers. Whatever you choose, always look for fragrance-free. KidsHealth.org instructs parents to look for redness or irritation around the legs and adhesive strips, making sure the diaper is not too tight or that it is not sticking to the skin. You may need to experiment with brands to see what works best for your baby. Every baby is different, so what irritates your friend's baby may not bother yours.

    Preventing Irritation

    • Diaper rashes and irritation are painful, and can cause your baby to be upset. To avoid irritation or help clear it up, use these simple strategies suggested by WhatToExpect.com. Change him frequently and leave some air room. Even though diapers are very absorbent and they may not feel too wet, the chemicals in diapers are still sitting on his skin. Make sure he is completely dry after a bath or cleaning. Any wetness can trap moisture leading to irritation. Let your baby go diaper-free and get some fresh air on his sensitive skin. Place an absorbent pad underneath him to catch any accidents.

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