What does a bacterial diaper rash look like?

Common symptoms include red skin that looks like a sunburn and peeling, flaking, or scaling skin. Many babies with diaper rash have tender, swollen lumps on their skin. A more severe diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection or a bacterial infection. The yeast infection, called candidal diaper dermatitis, causes thick, white patches. A bacterial infection can cause pus-filled blisters or sores. If your baby is suffering from a more severe form, the CDC says you should seek medical care from your pediatrician.

How long does a diaper rash last?

The time required to heal depends upon the severity. It can take anywhere between 2 to 3 days to heal.

Is diaper rash painful for babies?

Although not all babies experience diaper rash, some may be left with painful skin irritation after wearing diapers. Observing redness and swelling in the groin area is normal after the diapers are worn for an extended period. However, pink rashes are not painful; they are more irritating. Raw rashes, however, could be painful and aggravate when the baby urinates. They are more commonly referred to as diaper dermatitis.

When should I take my baby to the doctor for a diaper rash?

If the diaper rash persists, it is always better to visit the doctor. The baby's pediatrician will examine the baby and may prescribe some medication to clear the rash.

How can I tell if my baby has a diaper rash?

You should see signs of redness and irritation on your baby's bottom - these should clear up within a few days. If you notice that their skin looks dry where their diaper is, this could be why the rash has not gone away after a few days. Please read our detailed list of symptoms.

How can I ensure my baby is not developing a diaper rash?

You should change your baby's nappy immediately after they have had an accident or when they wet themselves - follow this by patting them dry with a clean, soft and gentle towel.

What can I do to prevent my baby from developing a diaper rash?

Change wet or dirty diapers promptly, clean gently with water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes, and pat dry. A pharmacist can advise on a barrier cream; avoid soap and dusting powders on irritated skin.

I have tried everything, but my baby's diaper rash has not started to clear up yet - what should I do?

You should consult a doctor for advice - you can try using cotton cloths made of the bamboo fiber to clean away any debris from around the area that is bothering your child.

Can I bathe my baby every day to avoid diaper rash?

Yes, doing this is one of the best ways to ensure that your baby does not develop any rash since it will keep their skin completely dry and clean. Note: It is important to recognize that any medications or treatments discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Before using anything in your baby's care, always consult with your childcare provider.

Diaper Rash: Symptoms - Cause - Prevention and Treatment 2026

Table of Contents

Introduction

Diaper rash is one of babies’ and toddlers’ most common skin conditions worldwide. This type of rash typically occurs when a child with sensitive skin comes into contact with urine, feces, or stool on the bottom.

Related resource: diaper rash relief options.

Diaper rash can also involve contact irritation or a yeast or bacterial infection. Yeast and bacteria are different organisms; treatment depends on the cause.

Irritant diaper rash is not contagious. Some infections can affect the diaper area, so wash hands after changes and seek advice if infection is suspected.

Mild irritation often improves within a few days. Seek advice if it persists, worsens or spreads; fever or significant discomfort needs prompt assessment.

Diaper rash commonly involves irritation from prolonged contact with urine or stool, friction, or irritating products. It is not explained by blocked pores releasing bacterial toxins.

It should be treated as soon as it appears to prevent further irritation and infection. If a child has it frequently, you should consult your healthcare professional to determine the cause of the rash. This will help you decide on the best treatment for diaper rashes.

Symptoms of a Diaper Rash

According to the National Eczema Association, this skin condition affects 7 to 35 percent of infants. While several over-the-counter treatments are available, it’s always best to catch the rash early and treat it before it gets out of control. Here are diaper rash symptoms every parent should know.

Excessive crying – If your baby is suddenly extra fussy, it could be a sign that they’re experiencing discomfort from a diaper rash. If you notice your baby crying more than usual, especially during or after a diaper change, it’s worth checking for other signs.
Skin that looks red and irritated – One of the most obvious signs of diaper rash is red, inflamed skin in the diaper area. This can occur on the buttocks, thighs, or genitals. The skin may also be warm to the touch.
Small raised bumps on the skin – You may also notice small raised bumps on your baby’s skin. These bumps are usually red or white and may be filled with pus.
Scaly or cracked skin – Another symptom to look out for is scaly or cracked skin in the diaper area. This is often a sign that the rash has been present for some time and has not been properly treated.
Pain or discomfort when urinating – If your baby seems to be in pain or discomfort, this could be a sign that they have a UTI (urinary tract infection). While UTIs are more common in older children and adults, they can also occur in babies and toddlers. If you suspect your child has a UTI, speak to their doctor as soon as possible so that they can start treatment right away.
Fever – In some cases, they can also cause a fever in babies and toddlers. If your child has a fever and any other symptoms of diaper rash, it’s important to speak to their doctor immediately, as this could be a sign of an infection.
Chills – Chills are another possible symptom of an infection. Suppose your child is experiencing chills along with other symptoms of diaper rash. In that case, it’s important to seek medical help immediately, as this could signify sepsis – a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an infection.
Flu-like symptoms – In some cases, you may also notice that your child has flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, lethargy, poor appetite, and muscle aches. These symptoms can occur along with any other signs of diaper rash and usually indicate that your child has developed an infection.

Diaper Rash Causes

To understand what causes diaper rash, it is first important to know exactly what you are dealing with. Many parents assume that diaper rash is the same as a simple case of irritation, but this condition is much more than that.

Diaper rash usually starts with small patches of red skin in the baby’s anus and lower regions. These spots may or may not be painful and might appear to be pimples or other types of skin infections at first glance.

The Causes are vast, but typically the spots will be raised above the skin and very tender for your baby to touch. As the condition develops, the skin around these spots may begin to peel and flake away, leaving your baby with red patches all over its bottom.

The skin may also crack or bleed, making it even more uncomfortable for your little one to sit or lie down. Diaper rash is one of the most common skin conditions a baby can have and is obvious even when they are wearing clothing over their sensitive areas.

It is important not to confuse this condition with other types of rashes on a child’s bottom, such as yeast infections or allergic reactions.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

Irritation from urine or stool in a diaper – Probably the most common cause of diaper rash and always needs to be addressed immediately. This can occur when a diaper gets wet with urine or feces but also be aware that any time your baby sits or lies down on their bottom in a wet diaper, this can irritate their skin and cause a rash.
Using products made for adults – Many people mistakenly assume that the wrong products for babies cause diaper rashes, but this is not true. Often, the main culprits for adult products causing rashes are the ingredients used to make them.
Most people know that certain scents and dyes used in adult products are unsafe for children, but they often do not realize that the same can be true for baby products.
Sunblock or insect repellents tend to be strong, and many contain chemicals too strong for baby skin. Other common ingredients in adult products include perfumes and deodorizers, which can cause irritation or even an allergic reaction.
Bacterial infections – These can affect damaged diaper-area skin and may cause sores or pus. A clinician should assess suspected infection; diaper rash does not diagnose a urinary tract infection.
Yeast infection – Candida is a fungus that can cause diaper-area rash, particularly in moist skin folds. Ask a clinician or pharmacist about appropriate treatment.
Mechanical irritation to the skin – Diaper rash can also be caused by mechanical irritation from rubbing against a rough diaper or one that is too tight. This is a common cause of diaper rash, especially among babies with overly sensitive skin.
Sometimes, diaper rash is caused by irritation to the baby’s bottom – this could be because their diapers are too tight or there is a reaction to their nappy cream.
These problems should clear up within three days if you keep your baby clean and ensure that the surrounding skin is completely dry. If you see any signs of infection, like pus, or if your baby has been diagnosed with an infection in the past, make sure you mention this to a doctor before using any nappy rash treatment on them.

Diaper Rash Prevention and Treatment

After a diaper change, gently pat the skin dry. Avoid dusting powders: products described as natural can still be inhaled. The linked baby power product should not be treated as a recommended rash remedy.

Remember that changing diapers as soon as possible will help you treat any nappy rash more effectively – if your child’s nappy becomes soggy, you should change it immediately and then take some time out to clean their bum gently with warm water and mild soap before applying the diapers again.
For uncomplicated irritation, a pharmacist may recommend a barrier cream. A suspected yeast or bacterial infection needs assessment and may require a specific antifungal or antibiotic; barrier cream alone does not treat it.
Clean the area gently with water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. Avoid soap and fragranced lotions on irritated skin; do not promise that washing prevents every infection.
Suppose you notice any redness or irritation on your baby’s bottom. In that case, you should take them to the doctor before using any nappy rash treatment on them – while it is likely that they have just developed a yeast infection, it is also possible that they may have contracted an infection.
If the rash is not improving within a few days, gets worse or spreads, contact a clinician. Seek advice promptly for fever, marked pain, pus or blisters rather than waiting two weeks.
If you are using disposable diapers, consider switching to cloth diapers until the rash clears up. Cloth diapers are less likely to irritate your baby’s skin because they allow more airflow than disposables.
You should also make sure that they have nothing in their bottom at all before they go to sleep, or at least anything damp for a long period – you should gently pat them dry with a clean and soft towel after a bowel movement and then gently wipe away any fecal matter from around their bum to prevent any infection from occurring.

Allow skin to breathe – Allow your baby’s bottom some time without a diaper. Place them on a blanket on their back or sit up supported so they can kick their legs and get some air to the area.
Avoid dusting powders, including cornstarch and arrowroot. Powder can be inhaled; use gentle cleansing and an appropriate barrier cream instead.
Avoid harsh laundry detergents – Just like soap, laundry detergent can be harsh on your baby’s skin and should be avoided if possible. If you must use detergent, opt for a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free option to minimize irritation.
Do not rely on probiotics as a diaper-rash treatment. Discuss persistent rash with the baby’s clinician rather than giving or applying probiotics on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions about Diaper Rash

What does a bacterial diaper rash look like?
Common symptoms include red skin that looks like a sunburn and peeling, flaking, or scaling skin. Many babies with diaper rash have tender, swollen lumps on their skin.
A more severe diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection or a bacterial infection. The yeast infection, called candidal diaper dermatitis, causes thick, white patches.
A bacterial infection can cause pus-filled blisters or sores. If your baby is suffering from a more severe form, the CDC says you should seek medical care from your pediatrician.
How long does a diaper rash last?
The time required to heal depends upon the severity. It can take anywhere between 2 to 3 days to heal.
Is diaper rash painful for babies?
Although not all babies experience diaper rash, some may be left with painful skin irritation after wearing diapers. Observing redness and swelling in the groin area is normal after the diapers are worn for an extended period.
However, pink rashes are not painful; they are more irritating. Raw rashes, however, could be painful and aggravate when the baby urinates. They are more commonly referred to as diaper dermatitis.
When should I take my baby to the doctor for a diaper rash?
If the diaper rash persists, it is always better to visit the doctor. The baby’s pediatrician will examine the baby and may prescribe some medication to clear the rash.
How can I tell if my baby has a diaper rash?
You should see signs of redness and irritation on your baby’s bottom – these should clear up within a few days. If you notice that their skin looks dry where their diaper is, this could be why the rash has not gone away after a few days. Please read our detailed list of symptoms.
How can I ensure my baby is not developing a diaper rash?
You should change your baby’s nappy immediately after they have had an accident or when they wet themselves – follow this by patting them dry with a clean, soft and gentle towel.
What can I do to prevent my baby from developing a diaper rash?
Change wet or dirty diapers promptly, clean gently with water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes, and pat dry. A pharmacist can advise on a barrier cream; avoid soap and dusting powders on irritated skin.
I have tried everything, but my baby’s diaper rash has not started to clear up yet – what should I do?
You should consult a doctor for advice – you can try using cotton cloths made of the bamboo fiber to clean away any debris from around the area that is bothering your child.
Can I bathe my baby every day to avoid diaper rash?
Yes, doing this is one of the best ways to ensure that your baby does not develop any rash since it will keep their skin completely dry and clean.
Note: It is important to recognize that any medications or treatments discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Before using anything in your baby’s care, always consult with your childcare provider.