What Causes diaper rashes in the first place?
Below you will find one of the most comprehensive and up to date lists there is for cloth diaper safe creams for diaper rash. First, I wanted to stress that you also clear up the underlying problem; otherwise the diaper rash creams will just keep coming back. I’ve compiled the most common causes of diaper rash creams and how you might get to their causes.
- Are the diaper rash creams from ammonia build-up? Or simply from the diapers not getting clean in the wash. Does your little one’s tushie look red, like bad sunburn wherever the insert touches? After they pee, does it smell so bad that it burns your nose hairs? You may need to fix your wash routine. Ammonia means they aren’t getting clean in the wash. Once you’ve got a good routine and hopefully gotten rid of the stink, read this to see ways you can prevent ammonia from coming back.
- Does the rash look like what I described above, except youu also notice that the diapers smell like a poo filled barn yard even after a wash, it also means they aren’t getting clean. You’ve got to get the wash routine fixed otherwise they will just continue to smell and cause rashes. This is a good place to start. That article gives a good foundation for a solid wash routine.
- Is the rash yeast? Yeast tends to grow in the folds of baby’s skin, but can grow anywhere on their tush. A yeast rash can look red, irritated and raised. Once it gets worse you may see slightly raised red dots and it may begin to look scaly. You need to disinfect your cloth diapers and treat the rash FAST!
- Is the rash from product sensitivity? You may need to shop around for another detergent that doesn’t aggravate your baby’s skin the minute it touches it. If you use the same detergent on clothing and they don’t have an issue, this isn’t likely the problem.
- Is the rash from sensitivity to disposable wipes? All disposable wipes contain a preservative (even the water wipes). Some little ones are more sensitive to this. Try using cloth wipes and buy or make your own healthy wipes solution.
- Finally, if all of the above don’t clear up the rash, consider the possibility that there might be an allergy to a material used in the diaper. This is rare and only a very small amount of children have these types of sensitivities. Suede cloth is one thing that may cause a sensitivity. It is made of the same stuff as microfleece (100% polyester). However, it is thinner and more resistant to pilling making it look new longer. Try using natural fibers against baby (cotton, hemp, or bamboo). Also, some are allergic to PUL or TPU used in cloth diaper covers. Alternatives include covers made from fleece and wool. You can eliminate that suspected fabric and see if the rash clears. If it does, you know that is the issue.
- Most importantly, if you are unable to clear the rash after a few days and it looks like baby is suffering…call your pediatrician! Sometimes we all need a little backup!
Ok, now that we have the underlying problems clear…here is the list of cloth diaper safe creams and best diaper rash treatments! I will be including the original list with Autumn’s remarks about the creams as well as my own. This way you are getting two for the price of one! If I added my comments to a cream on the list I will note it with a (J). The * indicates that it has been personally used by Autumn or I and what our favorites are!
**Please note that even petroleum based rash creams can be use on NATURAL fibers such as cotton, bamboo, and hemp (no liner required). They will wash out in a good wash routine that uses HOT water. However, stick with this cloth diaper safe list if you are using any synthetic materials such as those that are found in pocket diapers or anything with a stay dry lining. Petroleum based creams will not wash out of those. **
Diaper Rash Creams
Aden & Anais Mum & Bub Soothing Ointment: Free of phytoestrogen, parabens, petroleum oils, phthalates, gluten and soy. It does contain fragrance though so may not be ideal for super sensitive skin.
Aleva Naturals Soothing Diaper Cream
Arbonne Baby Care Diaper Rash Cream
Avalon Organics Protective Ointment
Aveeno Soothing Relief Diaper Rash Cream w/ zinc oxide
Baby and Eve everyday bum balm : Organic, Made in Canada
*Bee All Natural’s Organic Baby Powder: Any baby powder not made with talc is safe for cloth diapers. Just use sparingly when applying as too much can create a cloud that can be inhaled. It’s for the tush, not your lungs ;)
Babo Botanicals Soothing Diaper Cream
*Babyganics Non-Petroleum Soothing Protective Ointment: Thicker cream, good to use as a moisture barrier on babies prone to wetness sensitivity. No fragrance so also great on sensitive skin.
*Balm! Baby- Diaper Balm: This is one you may not have heard of but I think it is wonderful. The Diaper Balm is also a First Aid ointment. So good in fact, that my mom used it on her radiation burns while she was going through cancer treatment! I can’t say it enough, I love this one!
* Bee All Natural Diaper Rash Salve: (J) Quickly clears up rashes from ammonia or sensitivities. The tube fits nicely in a diaper bag as well.
*Bee Green Naturals CocoBum Cream: (J) Nourishes, protects and heals. This is a creamier blend made by a WAHM. She states on her website, that due to the ingredients used, texture varies depending on the weather and temperature.
Bourdeaux’s All Natural Butt Paste (green tube): This is available in many drug stores and places like Walmart and Target. The main ingredient is zinc, which is cloth diaper safe. Zinc may stain but will not cause repelling.
*Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Ointment: Yes, this has zinc in it. Zinc is CD safe. It has been known to cause staining for some people. If you have that happen, don’t be alarmed. I like to use this when I want a good thick barrier cream.
*California Baby Diaper Rash Cream: can be purchased at many grocery stores and Amazon. Great aromatherapy scent. I have this thing about zinc oxide creams, as I apply them I immediately feel at ease as if they work faster and better. There have been cloth diaper users that claim this product leaves stains on their diapers. I have not experienced this yet. (J) I also have had no problems with zinc creams. I like that I can buy this in pretty much any local grocery store as well.
Calmoseptine: This comes highly recommended from pediatricians. Menthol helps to immediately relieve skin issues and zinc provides an excellent barrier.
* CJ’s BUTTer: (J) This is my other favorite that I reach for A LOT! I find if I really want to moisturize, this is the one. It works well when Sophia’s sensitive skin reacts to (a sometimes unknown) irritant. I also love the spritz, but I like the tubs as well. The Love Spell is heavenly smelling! (A) I LOVE the spritz, especially the pixie pie scent! I use it after every diaper change. It keeps Camden smelling good and his skin soft and supple.
*Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Balm now known as Earth Mama Organic Diaper balm
Earthly Remedies Baby’s Butt Cream
Eco Sprout Coconut Stick: This is a simple stick made up of 100% Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil blended with beeswax and vitamin E oil. Easy application and basic ingredients.
* Grandma El’s: Grandma El’s is my go to recommendation when someone needs a barrier ointment. I love the smell and wish it was gluten free so I could still use it.
GroVia Magic Stick Diaper Balm: (J) Made with natural and organic ingredients. Good if you don’t like to get your hands messy. However, because it is touched directly on baby, you will need a separate stick for each child if you have more than one in diapers. GroVia also has a version of this available with zinc in it.
Hello Bello contains zinc
Honest Company Organic Healing Balm: Some may worry that beeswax isn’t cd safe. It totally is, plus it is also a great to lock in moisture. It is also naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and germicidal.
Honest Company Rapid Relief Diaper Rash Cream: Goes on smooth and rubs in while still leaving enough of a barrier to help soothe skin.
*Kissing Blake Bum Balm I really liked this on rashes that had an open sore. It helped to speed the healing. There are no colorants or dyes, phthalates, formaldehyde, mineral oil, petroleum, or fragrances Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Koalin Clay, Beeswax, Lavender EO, Tea Tree EO
Lanolin: The kind used as nipple cream. Or what you use on wool to make them waterproof. Any pure brand is safe for cloth.
La Petite Creme Diaper Cleanser Lotion: (J) I’ve used this as both a rash cream and a cleanser and I prefer it as a rash cream. It may just be because I’m not really used to cleaning bums with a cream instead of a spray though. Very creamy and easy to use.
*LuSa Organics Booty Balm: (J) Made with organic ingredients. Good for diaper rashes as well as cuts, scraps, drool rash, windburn and sunburns. I am a big fan of all of the LuSa products.
Maty’s All Natural Baby Ointment
* MotherLove Diaper Rash and Thrush Ointment: Very versatile. I’ve used it on fungal spots with great success.
Northern Essence All Natural Diaper Rash Salves
Ora’s Amazing Herbal Baby Salve
*Organic unrefined virgin coconut oil: (J) This one is nature’s moisturizer. The ultimate cloth diaper safe ingredient. You can find this at any grocery store in their health food section. It is found in solid form. You can apply it by rubbing some between your fingers first. The friction will soften it up enough to be able to apply to little one’s bum. I found this to be a little more work than I wanted to be bothered with; but lots of people use this with great results.
Palmers Cocoa Butter Rash Cream
*Pooters Skin Therapy: (J) I turned to this stuff to treat a tick bite Sophia had. I then started to use it on a regular basis on any redness I saw. Cleared it up quickly every time. This is an excellent product for eczema as well.
Reese and Luke’s Shea Butter Baby Balm
Shea Moisture Raw Shea Chamomile and Argan Oil Baby Head-to-Toe Ointment
*Sweetbottoms Naturals All-Natural Soothing Herbal Balm
* Thirsties Booty Love: An excellent cloth diaper safe choice to apply every night before bedtime. Booty Love ointment will protect baby’s sensitive skin throughout the night from moisture and ammonia vapors. Anytime I used a barrier ointment at night my children wouldn’t have a red bum in the morning if the diaper reeked of ammonia. Sometimes ammonia can’t be avoided but still needs to be properly washed out. Make sure you are rinsing well and using a deep cleaning detergent appropriate for your water type.
TriDerman Stubborn Diaper Rash Healing Cream
Weleda Calendula Diaper Rash Cream
Wish Garden Herbs Baby Bum Balm
Megan says
Do you know if Diaper Derm is okay to use on cloth diapers? It contains “zinc oxide, lanolin, petrolatum, vitamin A, and vitamin D. No Fillers, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, talc, phthalate or parabens.”
If not, is there a method that I can use to strip the diapers and liners of any residual diaper cream? And is there another diaper cream that you could recommend that is cloth diaper safe and does not stain terribly?
Please let me know when you have a chance.
Thank you so much!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Something without zinc would be less likely to stain. It shouldn’t harm the diaper though beyond the stains. To get it out I’d get a small scrub brush or toothbrush and some dish detergent or even a tiny bit of your detergent if it’s liquid and just scrub away.
Mirjam says
Hi, thanks for sharing!
Young Living’s Seedlings Diaper Cream:
(Coconut oil, beeswax, castor oil, mangifera indica seed butter, sunflower oil, safflower oil, cocoa butter, maranta arundinacea root, avocado oil, astrocaryum murumuru seed butter, glyceryl rosinate, kaolin, lavender† oil, tocopherol, tamanu oil, vitis vinifera seed, hippophae rhamnoides seed oil, glyceryl oleate, olea europaea (olive) oil unsaponifiables, picea mariana† leaf oil, helichrysum† italicum flower oil, calendula officinalis flower, chamomile, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) flower extract, plantago major leaf, stellaria media leaf)
seems also right, right?
kind regards, Mirjam
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yes, looks good to me!
Autri @Diaper rash problem says
Which diaper should I use to prevent diaper rash? Waiting for your answer. I am worried about my baby diaper rash!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It isn’t so much the diaper. If you are worried about rashes be sure to change baby every 2-3 hours during the day. And you could certainly choose a rash cream from this list either as a preventative or for existing rashes.
Autri @Diaper rash problem says
I am using Desitin Maximum Strength Diaper Rash Paste. Now It`s better. Thanks for your reply.
Kristina Kinslow says
Any idea about Doterra diaper cream?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yup, it looks safe to me!
cbd cream near me says
Thank you for this amazing article. This has been a struggle of mine for so long. I am hoping that this will help me. I will gladly share your article with my community of 237K Instagram followers.
Scared_FTM says
Is Evereden Natural Diaper Rash Cream CD safe? Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Sunflower Seed Oil, Castor Seed Oil, Beeswax, Coconut Oil, and Grape Seed Oil.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yes, completely safe to use with cloth diapers.
Jenny wang says
Hello!
I have the following French diaper creams:
-Weleda calendula cleansing changing cream
-bepanthen pommade with lanolin, beeswax,
-mysotil with petrolatum zinc oxide and lanolin.
I have both cotton and bamboo diaper liners.
What is the best combination of creams and reusable diapers?
Please help! Thank you so much!!!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Jenny! Of the ones you mentioned I would go with Welenda. The others might need the use of a liner.
ashley says
Is simple truth organic diaper balm cloth safe?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yes :)
rachelle says
Hi there, I’m very new to pul diapers and my first experience was not a good one. That was about two years ago. Big problems with leaking and stinking and after about 2 months I gave up and went back to disposables. Now I ran into a friend that uses just pul/cd and she loves them. I’m willing to give them another try, and after coming upon your site I realize what might have gone wrong the first time (washing routine and water not hot enough). But I do have questions. I don’t know what my liners are made of. If they’re microfiber or bamboo. Is there a way to know the difference if you only have that one kind? And also I’m using A&D diaper rash salve now, will it affect my liners?
Alix says
Hello! We are expecting our first child in June and are going to cloth diaper. An amazing friend graciously lent us her whole newborn CD collection and I want to keep them as nice as possible. I was planning on using Hello Bello Diaper Cream which is a zinc oxide base (list of ingredients down below) but I am hesitant as I don’t want to permanently stain her diapers but I’m worried that a liner will make the newborn diapers too bulky. I also purchased the Zarbee’s daily bum cream for my husband’s diaper bag. (He will be using either disposable inserts or disposable diapers while out and about so I’m not worried about him using the wrong diaper cream in his bag.) Do you think this is an okay diaper cream to use on her CDs? I included the Zarbee’s daily bottom balm ingredients down below. Thank you again!
Hello Bello Diaper Cream Ingredients:
(ACTIVE) ZINC OXIDE 40%, RICINUS COMMUNIS (CASTOR) SEED OIL*, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL*, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED WAX
POLYHYDROXYSTEARIC ACID, ZEA MAYS (CORN) STARCH, HYDROGENATED PALM OIL
THEOBROMA CACAO (COCOA) SEED BUTTER*, CETYL PALMITATE (VEGETABLE WAX NATURAL), BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL*
TOCOPHEROL, CALOPHYLLUM INOPHYLLUM (TAMANU) SEED OIL*
Zarbee’s Baby Daily Bottom Balm Ingredients:
RICINUS COMMUNIS (CASTOR) SEED OIL*, TRIBEHENIN, BEHENYL BEESWAX, CANOLA OIL, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, TOCOPHEROL, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CALENDULA OFFICINALIS FLOWER EXTRACT
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Both creams should be fine and should wash out in hot water. If you ever have a stain just take a dish soap and scrub with an old toothbrush. And I’m just mentioning my husband ended up using cloth in the diaper bag and had no issues. Just figure out what his favorite brand is and be sure to stock the bag with those!
Laurelinn says
Hello! Thank you for all your work and dedication to this website and the cloth diapering community!
I would like to ask if this cream is cloth diaper safe?
Ingredients: Aqua, Ethylhexyl stearate, Zinc oxide, Glycine soja oil, Panthenol, Lanolin, Cera alba, Glycerin, Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil, Linum usitatissimum seed oil, Sorbitan oleate, Polyglyceryl-3 polricinoleate, Zinc sulfate, Magnesium sulfate, Parfum, Tocopherol, Glyceryl caprylate, P-anisic acid, Sodium hydroxide, Citric acid.
Thank you in advance!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It looks ok to me!
Laurelinn says
Thank you! It’s Hipp Babysanft care Nappy rash cream.
Donna says
Hello, recently my baby seems to be pooping a little bit every diaper change.. because I can’t smell it through the diaper when I go to change him he has a rash.. we’ve been using Desitin at night with the disposables and that seems to heal him pretty good… we use baby bum diaper cream during the day from your list with our pockets.. but his little bum is still super red (only in the area where the poo sits) I’ve started checking him every hour and changing him every 1-2 hours to try and avoid him sitting in it but he’s still pretty irritated… any advice??
Also, the diaper cream has not come out of the diapers. I washed first wash with vinegar in cold heavy duty, then hot with oxiclean… saw they had diaper cream so I put them back in with oxiclean and did a quick wash hot.. the diaper cream is still on. What am I doing wrong?? : /
Amelia says
I’m looking for a replacement for the Babyganics cream you have listed. I can’t find it anywhere but it’s worked best for our babe. Someone suggested Cloud Island all purpose cream as a similar Vaseline like consistency but I wasn’t 100 % sure it is cloth diaper friendly. Thoughts?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yup Cloud Island all purpose cream is cloth diaper safe!
Amelia says
Thanks!
Naomi Matatov says
I didn’t see it in your list… is Beauty Counter’s Baby Calming Diaper Rash Cream safe to use ok cloth diapers.
Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Cera Alba/Beeswax/Cire d’abeille, Silica, Tapioca Starch, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It’s safe! I’ll add it when I get a chance! Thank you!
Megan says
Hello,
I’ve been using Bourdeaux’s All Natural Butt Paste (green tube) recently and have noticed that it causes neon yellow/green staining. This does come out in the wash and with sunning, but it is a very alarming color (think glow stick colors). Just wondering if this is still safe to use on my baby or if it just occurs after sitting waiting for wash day? Wondering if others have experienced similar issues with this particular diaper cream. I previously used Burts Bees All purpose ointment but that was leavong my kangacare liners feeling oily.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
I haven’t heard of that kind of stain occurring. How much do you use? Perhaps you could get away with a bit less. A little really does go a long way and it may wash out easier.
Jessica says
Hi! Just wondering if Green Beaver Natural Diaper Cream is ok on all types of cloth diapers? Here’s an ingredient list:
Sunflower Seed Oil
Saponified Castor Seed Oil *
Beeswax *
Zinc Oxide
Tapioca
Avocado Oil *
Chamomile *
Tocopherol
Beta-sitosterol
Squalene
*Ingredients from organic farming
Thanks!!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Looks ok to me!
Amanda Goodwin Shenker says
Tubby Todd Sweet Cheeks? Thank you!
Sarah Magnuson says
I’ve been using baby mantra for months with no repelling issues. However, I’ve been battling stink issues could the stink issues be caused by the cream?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It appears to be cloth safe. If you have stink it is a sure sign the diapers aren’t getting clean in the wash. I would look at your wash routine and make some changes there.
Cassandra Gurule says
Hi Jennifer, FTM here and I was just wondering if Baby Bum Diaper Rash Cream is CD safe? Thank you so much! This is the ingredient list. Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Beeswax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado), Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Gardenia Taitensis Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Looks good! I’ll add it to the list as well! Thanks for reaching out!
Cari says
So, thinking about trying the new Boogie Bottoms diaper rash spray. How do you feel about this one being CD safe?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It’s not, it has mineral oil in it.
Vicki Gubbe says
My daughter just switched to cloth diapers for her 11month old due to a sensitivity to something in the disposable diapers. My granddaughter had a horrible rash and the doctor recommended resinol. It is safe for CD?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It is if you are only using natural fibers like hemp, cotton or bamboo. But if you are using anything synthetic like the inner material on pockets usually is then you’d need a liner.
Priyanka Bansal says
Diaper rashes are annoying yet common in babies, their skin is delicate and require much more than ordinary cream. You can use natural and organic babo botancials diaper rash cream which is infused with the power of calendula, chamomile, and shea butter.
Sarah says
What about All Good Goop?
Organic Olea Europaea (Extra Virgin Olive Fruit Oil)*, Pure Cera Alba (Beeswax), Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula)*, Organic Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey)*, Organic Plantago Lanceolata (Plantain)*, Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender)*, Organic Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow)*, Non-GMO Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender Essential Oil)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Looks safe to me.
Mari says
Hello Jennifer,
What do you think about Triple Paste medicated ointment for cloth diapers it was recommended by her pediatrician?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It’s good stuff. It’s very thick in consistency which keeps moisture away so the rash can heal. I would say go for it. Just be aware you don’t have to use so much that you can write your name in it. It will wash off natural fibers but you’ll need a liner if you use pockets or anything synthetic such as stay dry liners.
Rachel says
Bought a tube of Badger Diaper Cream and I’m wondering if it’s CD safe; I don’t see it on this list. The ingredients are Zinc Oxide, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, Tocopherol (Sunflower Vitamin E)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Rachel! It’s safe. I’ll be sure to add it. Thanks!
William Wilson says
Thank you so much for this post! I am now going to venture into cloth diapering with my almost 4 month old. I appreciate this is one of the main ingredients in Calmoseptine is petrolatum. Since this is a petroleum product. Can you tell me how much safe is it for the baby? Thanks in advance for your answer also for your helpful article.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Just use a small amount to cover any rashes completely.
Taylor says
Would a cream with these ingredients be okay on a diaper with a stay dry topper?
Organic coconut oil, Bees Wax, Shea butter, Pumpkin seed oil, Safflower oil, Hemp seed Oil, and Essential oil or fragrance oil.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Seems ok to me :)
Taylor Lehman says
Is Zincofax safe? I was gifted a tube from another CD mama at my shower and haven’t used it yet but want to make sure beforehand!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It’s safe on all natural fibers. But if you use pockets you should use a liner.
Taylor Lehman says
I’m using Bumgenius AIOs
Jennifer Reinhardt says
I believe those have stay dry topper. That means it’s a synthetic material so you should use a line.
Hana Truesdell says
bordeaux butt paste Green tube has castor oil. I thought that wasn’t ok to use?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
The green tube is cloth diaper safe.
Julia says
Thank you so much for this post! I am now going to venture into cloth diapering with my almost 5 month old. I apologize if you already addressed this, but is triple paste a “no-no” for cloth diapers. My little one has never really had issues with diaper rash terribly **knock on wood** but when she has, triple paste always works great so fingers crossed it will work with cloth diapers. I will be using Bumgenius pocket diapers if that helps!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Julia! Triple paste is safe with natural fibers such as hemp, bamboo and cotton. However with the synthetic stay dry liner of the pocket, you should use a liner with the triple paste as it could cause repelling.
Julia says
Thank you so much!!
Karina says
Do you know if Mustela is a diaper rash cream that can be used while cloth diapering. On the tube it recommends a thick layer as well and I read in one of your replies that applying creams to thick may cause the diaper to not absorb properly. I’ve just started looking into buying cloth diapers for my 3 month old but I have so much Mustela diaper rash cream, I hope I can still use it with the cloth diapers.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Any cream can be used on natural fibers. Hot water should wash it away (although zinc can stain). On synthetics it’s a different story. So for pocket diapers or any stay dry lining a liner would have to be used. Unless there is a severe rash, you shouldn’t need a super thick layer of anything.
Karina says
Oh that’s good to know since Zinc is the main active ingredient. Thank you so much for the reply!! Your website has been incredibly helpful in beginning to cloth diaper.
Mandy says
One of the main ingredients in Calmoseptine is petrolatum. Since this is a petroleum product, how is it cloth diaper safe? I love this product, but don’t want to ruin my diapers. Thanks!
Christine says
Hi, love the list! It has so many different types of oitments I’ve been wanting to try but avoiding so I don’t ruin my diapers. My favourite ointment for just about everything is made by a local company called soapstones natural skincare, the ointment is called “Baby Bum Butter” but I have been weary of using it with my diapers, do you think it’s ok for use? Here is the discription and ingredient list off their website:
BABY BUM BUTTER
Made with the finest tropical oils including organic shea nut oil, hemp, grapeseed oil, beeswax, jojoba, castor, and apricot kernel oil. Enhanced with soothing Vitamin E and Meadowfoam Oil.
Ingredients: Apricot Kernel Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Beeswax, Jojoba Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Lavender Essential Oil.
Thanks for your advice ?
Kylee says
Hi there, I was wondering if you had any information on baby mantra diaper rash cream it is a saved for us but I haven’t used it with our cloth diapers yet and wanted to be sure!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Kylee, I looked on their site and I only see a partial list of ingredients. When you click the ingredients link it just loops you around to the home page. If you can get me the ingredients list I can let you know for sure. Thanks!
Amanda says
For the bordeaux butt paste, why only the green all natural one? So would the red bottle not be good for the diapers?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Amanda, The red tube has Castor Oil and Mineral Oil which coat fibers and don’t wash away leaving a layer of water repellent basically.
Morgan says
This must be my cloth diaper problem! Was getting so frustrated I actually cried a few times! Is there a way to remove the layer created by the red tube butt paste? I have tried stripping with grovia pods without success
Jennifer Reinhardt says
A dish soap like dawn with is a degreaser. Use a little of that and then scrub with an old toothbrush.
Amber Goode says
Ah!! I forgot about motherlove…. my chunky son tends to get yeasty quick in his rolls…. his neck is a constant battle, the prescription cream just makes it look more irritated, I’ll have to try the motherlove thanks?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Thanks for mentioning. I checked it out and I agree it look safe. I added to the post. Thanks again!
Christy says
Hello, we are battling some serious diaper rash here that will not going away :( it was yeast and HFM but has since cleared up. After treating w bleach, we are back in cloth! She still has redness and irritation though. Dr says the problems have cleared, we just gotta knock out the rash. Any suggestions for particularly effective cd friendly diaper creams for rash? We use earth mama angel baby. Thank you!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Are you sure that the redness isn’t from something like ammonia burns? THat would only clear once the wash routine gets fixed. If it is truly just a normal diaper rash and Earth Momma isn’t doing the trick, you might try something like Grandma El’s. It’s my favorite cd safe barrier cream. It goes on thicker and stays put longer. Also, give baby LOTS of naked air time. Try using cloth wipes if you are using disposables as the disposable wipes could be a culprit. Good luck! I hope LO get the rash clear soon.
Stefanie Ryan says
This is so helpful, thanks!
Kate says
I think PURE Haven Essentials would also be safe. 100% natural. They never use paraffin or petro- based ingredients in any of their stuff. If you want a link to check it out, would you please email me or let me know how I can send it to you?
Jessica C. says
Thanks so much for this list!
Deborah D says
I am going to show my sister this post. It may help her.
may lynn huang says
Hi just want to be super duper clear are u guys saying honest healing balm id safe for cloth? Bc I love it but have been avoiding it bc b4 some ppl were saying it’s not?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Some people think beeswax is safe. But it is. Honest Healing Balm is totally cloth safe. :)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Sytske, I’d say no as it contains ingredients made of petroleum derivatives. If you do use it, be sure to use a liner.
Susanne says
I just wanted to add plain Coconut Oil to the list. We prefer organic, extra virgin (any brand) and have found it to be a life saver! We always used as a preventative when our first baby was EBF and since then, on any sign of redness or irritation. It has never failed! Costs less too. :)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
It’s already there! lol :)
Cecile L. says
Hi Jennifer,
I have recently started a company in Florida who manufactures and sells a US-made version of a famous French all natural diaper lotion. It is called La Petite Creme and serves as both a Cleanser and a Lotion. It is composed mostly of Olive Oil and Limewater and is perfectly safe for cloth diapering.
More at http://www.LaPetiteCreme.com. Happy diapering!
laura says
Is Burts Bee’s not ok to use? I have read on other blogs that it is?
Irina Johnson says
Diaper Rash is a serious concern for new born and babies. The best option for parents is to change their diapers every 4-5 hours
Ashlee says
I have some Arbonne Baby diaper rash cream. I have read the ingredients and it does not contain Cod Liver Oil or Parafin. Is it safe? You can see the list of ingredients by following this link: I am not sure what other ingredients might make it unsafe to use with cloth diapers.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Ashlee! I’ve actually had other people ask me about that one before. The one ingredient I think I would be weary of is the carnuba wax. I personally feel like it might cause repelling issues. I couldn’t really find documentation to support my thoughts, but I would probably use a liner with it myself.
Ivana says
Avalon Organics is NOT CD safe…. (At least in my experience)
Thank you for this list.. It’s soooooo helpful! :) but..
I would just like to add I bought the Avalon Organics for my little guy and it ruined all his CD’s.. It took me a couple runs with it to realize they were all stained and felt greasy and coated where it touched the diapers.. After I noticed they started repelling. Now I’m stuck with a toothbrush and dawn trying to save them. Lol
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Ivana, Thanks for taking the time to comment! I double checked the ingredients and there doesn’t appear to be anything that would cause issues. That doesn’t mean they can’t happen as nothing is 100%. Any cream should be used sparingly. Enough to get the job done and, in Earth Momma Angel Baby’s words “but not enough to write your name in” :). That is the only thing I can think of that may have happened. Is it possible that you use a lot and it wasn’t washing off the cloth because of the amount? Either way, nothing works for everyone and hopefully you found something that you love!
Nicole says
Have you tried my gypsy child’s happy nappy bum balm?? I use it and absolutely love it!!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
No I haven’t nicole! I might have to.
Irina Johnson says
Thank You for the list of Creams and ointments that can be use if ones baby suffers from Diaper Rash
Anel says
I didn’t see it on the list, but is the Honest brand’s diaper rash cream safe for CD? Thanks!
Paula says
Honest brand diaper rash cream is not safe for cloth diapers because it contains zinc oxide. Their healing balm contains beeswax as barrier protection. I think that is safe for cloth diapers, but I’m not sure.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Actually zinc is not what makes something not cd safe. It is petroleum and caster oils that aren’t good for cloth.
Andrea says
Honest Co list of inactive ingredients says it contains “Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil”
Andrea says
I would like to know if Honest Co Healing Balm is okay though
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Yes, it is safe. I’m working on another update with a more complete list of creams.
Laura V says
So the Honest Co. Healing Balm (not the diaper rash cream by the same brand) IS cloth diaper safe even though it has castor seed oil in it?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Laura, Here are the Healing Balm’s ingredient list taken from Honest Company’s website. It is totally CD safe. Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Calophyllum Tacamahaca (Tamanu) Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Oil*, Tocopherol (Non-GMO)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Anel, I’m not sure if you saw my reply. I will be updating this list again soon. But Honest Company seems to be safe.
Chrissy says
I love Shea Moisture Head To Toe Ointment as well as the CJs Butter & of course coconut oil is amazing for so many things! Shea Moisture said this is CD safe.
Hayley Elliott says
Have you had any issues using the Shea Moisture with your cloth? We just started using cloth and the Shea Moisture is what we use for rashes and rash prevention, but we haven’t used it with cloth yet because we weren’t sure if it was cloth safe.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Hayley! Nope totally safe. In fact many of the cd safe creams you buy contain it.
Emily Smith says
I looked on the babyganics website and they say that their diaper creams and ointments are cloth diaper safe – is there any reason they aren’t on the list?
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hey Emily! I am actually working on another update to cover more of the commerically available cd safe creams. I agree, you will should be fine using it.
Jessica says
Has anyone used Burt’s Bees Baby Bee 2-in-1 Cream to Powder? My little one got diaper rash and that cleared it up so fast while keeping his bum soft. However, I used liners on my CD until it cleared up because I wasn’t sure if it was CD safe.
Vanessa O says
I currently have the honest company healing balm and everyone agrees is cloth diaper safe!! So thumbs up on that one!! Honest has recently come out with an actual diaper rash cream (which I also purchased) anyone know if it’s CD safe?
Lauren says
Do you know if the Weleda Baby diaper rash cream is CD safe? I am a FTM and my son is just over a month old. I loved this cream and stocked up when I got it on sale, and have just purchased all of my cloth diapers to start using when my son is big enough. I will be slightly disappointed if I can’t use the cream, but would be more upset if I ruined the CDs!!! Thanks!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Lauren, It is the MOST cd friendly cream, but I think if you use it sparingly or with a liner you should be ok.
Lucy L says
Has anyone heard of or used Waxelene? It is a petroleum alternative. It’s ingredients are organic soybean oil, 100$ natural beeswax, organic rosemary oil, and 100% natural vitamin E oil. It sounds like a great baby bottom product and potentially safe for CDs? Any thoughts??
Polleen says
Yes! Waxelene is cloth diaper friendly and so great for baby and the entire family’s dry skin needs.
Tamara says
Yes! We love Waxelene! Have been using it since our toddler was a newborn with 0 problems. It smells great too! :)
Louise Tinker says
The Honest Company’s Honest healing balm is great for butt rash and is CD safe too!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Thanks Louise! Your right it does seem to be safe. Thanks for pointing that one out!
tiffanie says
I ordered from CJs this week and it seems that Love Spell is no longer offered :( such a bummer – it smells SO good!
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Oh no! Tiffanie, you’re right. I wish I had stocked up! That was my absolute FAVORITE!
Erin R says
Dumb question here…when something is “CD Safe” – does that mean no liner is necessary? Or do you use a liner but can wash them in the same laundry load? (On that note, can you use CD un-friendly creams with a liner, and wash in same load?) It seems weird to be able to put coconut oil directly on the bum, directly on diaper, without any oil/repelling issues but I’m a FTM due any day now and haven’t plunged into the CD world yet…
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Erin, There is no such thing as a dumb question. Smart people ask when they don’t know :) Yes, if it is cloth diaper safe, no liner is necessary. You can apply these creams, throw on the diaper, launder as usual. You shouldn’t have any problems. If you use a non-safe cream you use a liner and it shouldn’t be washed with the diapers. There are paper throw away liners you could use. I hate to say it but if you ever have serious problems and NEED to use a non-CD safe cream, some just use a disposable until they stop needing the cream. Everything won’t seem so confusing once you actually start doing it. And if you do have a question. Just ask! Congrats and good luck!
Andrea says
I would love to know if Thirsties Bootie Love and Mother Love Diaper Rash & Thrush ointment are similar (or the same)in te way they look, feel and smell when used on baby’s bottom. I notice they have practically identical ingredients listed. I love Mother Love Diaper Rash ointment, but have found the Thirsties to be a little more affordable, but haven’t purchased it yet. Also, I feel as if I’m the only one out there with a baby that has a sensitivity to coconut oil. (CJs BUTTer gives her a rash because of it.)
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Andrea, Thirsties Bootie Love is a thicker consistency cream. I don’t recall it really having a smell. You could always get a sample of it first to see if you like it.
Jennifer says
My baby is sensitive to CJs and coconut at well. :(
Becca Smith says
You mentioned grandma els was not gluten free. Why do you think that? I emailed the manufacturer before I ordered some and they assured me it was. Was the customer representative I spoke to mistaken? I’m concerned because my son’s baby-sitter has Celiacs and I don’t want her reacting to it.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
I will double check and get back to you on that Becca! I am not sensitive to glutens but Autumn is. I will let you know what I find out.
Jennifer Reinhardt says
Hi Becca, Grandma El’s uses wheat germ oil. Which in someone who is very sensitive can still cause a reaction. Autumn provided me a great link explaining it. http://glutenfreern.com/wheat-germ-oil/.
I also emailed the company and was told that it was gluten free. But it appears it is not wheat free. Thanks!