Red bumps on your child’s bum? Here’s how to treat and prevent them.

You're changing your baby's diaper when you suddenly spot red bumps on their bottom. There are several reasons why red bumps can appear in this area. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the possible causes, how to prevent them, and how to treat red bumps and other types of diaper rash. We’ll also explore which sustainable products can help, like the vegan, hypoallergenic Derma Eco diaper cream designed to soothe red bumps on your child’s bottom.Together towards more planet-friendly living. 

5 Types of Diaper Rash: Prevention & Treatment

1. Fungal Diaper Rash

What is it and what causes it?
Fungal diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection, usually by the Candida fungus. This fungus naturally lives on the skin but can multiply rapidly in warm, moist environments like a wet diaper. This leads to fungal diaper rash.

How to recognize it?
Fungal rash shows up as bright red patches with sharp edges, sometimes surrounded by small pimples or flaky areas. It often appears in the skin folds and can be painful or itchy.

How to prevent it?

• Change diapers regularly and keep the area dry.

• Let the skin dry fully after changing.

• Avoid wipes with perfume or alcohol that can irritate the skin.

        Try these hypoallergenic, fragrance-free baby wipes >

How to treat it?

• A doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream – use as directed.

• A soft, protective diaper cream like Derma Eco Baby Nappy Cream can help calm and heal the skin.

2. Diaper Rash with Open Sores

What is it and what causes it?
This rash develops when regular diaper rash worsens and the skin breaks due to friction, moisture, and bacteria. It can be quite painful, especially if the skin stays wet.

How to recognize it?
You’ll see bright red areas and sometimes open sores or broken skin. It may bleed or look moist.

How to prevent it?

• Keep the diaper area dry and clean.

• Use a protective cream with natural ingredients.

• Give your baby regular ‘nappy-free’ time.

• Try a different brand or type of diaper – your child’s skin might respond better. For example, Moomin Baby diapers, or one of our cloth diapers or bamboo diapers. Bamboo is gentle on the skin and highly absorbent.

How to treat it?

• Use a zinc ointment or a thick, soothing cream like Derma Eco Baby Nappy Cream.

• Avoid perfumed wipes and clean gently with lukewarm water and a reusable cloth.

• Let the skin dry thoroughly before putting on a new diaper.

3. Heat Rash

What is it and what causes it?
Heat rash appears as small red bumps or blisters caused by excessive sweating, which clogs the sweat glands. It’s common in summer or under tight, non-breathable clothing.

How to recognize it?
Tiny red or clear bumps, often in skin folds like the groin or on the buttocks. The rash can itch or sting.

How to prevent it?

• Dress your baby in breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo.
  Discover Bamboo Diapers >

• Keep your baby out of overly warm environments.

• Keep your little one out of direct sunlight, especially if they’re very young.

How to treat it?

• Let the skin breathe by giving your baby diaper-free time.

• Keep your child cool – the bumps usually go away within a few hours.

• Watch for signs of overheating:

Heavy sweating

Dry mouth

Fewer wet diapers or dark-colored urine

Dizziness or headache

Excessive crying

Lethargy

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, move your child to a cooler place and offer fluids if possible. Always contact a doctor if you’re unsure or if symptoms are severe or persistent.

4. Diaper Rash with Blisters

What is it and what causes it?
This type of rash can be caused by a bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. It occurs when the skin becomes irritated and bacteria multiply.

How to recognize it?
Red areas with moist or pus-filled blisters. Sometimes they burst and form a crust.

How to prevent it?

• Keep the diaper area clean and dry.

• Use gentle care products without perfume or irritants.

• Maintain good hygiene when changing diapers.

Want to know how many diapers you need and how often to change them by age? Read our blog:
“Cloth & Disposable Diapers: How Many Do You Need?”

How to treat it?

• For severe or recurring blisters, consult a doctor.

• Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and pat dry.

• Use a soothing, protective cream like Derma Eco Baby Nappy Cream.

5. Diaper Eczema

What is it and what causes it?
Diaper eczema is a form of eczema caused by a mix of moisture, friction, and irritation from urine or stool. Children with sensitive skin or eczema-prone skin are more susceptible.

How to recognize it?
Red, dry patches with flaking, sometimes with itchy bumps. The skin can feel rough and look chapped.

How to prevent it?

• Use hypoallergenic diapers and avoid harsh wipes.
  Try these Smartkids wipes made from FSC-certified wood pulp >

• Apply a natural, protective diaper cream regularly.

• Avoid synthetic fabrics in clothes and diapers.

How to treat it?

• Use a moisturizing, soothing cream like Derma Eco Baby Nappy Cream.

• Wash the area with a mild, fragrance-free wash gel.

• Consult your GP or a dermatologist if symptoms persist.

Looking for sustainable products for red bumps on your child’s bottom?

At Grace is Green, you’ll find a wide range of sustainable and skin-friendly products to prevent and treat red bumps on your child’s bottom. Always sustainably tested and truly eco-friendly. From eco diapers to sustainable toys and vegan baby care. From playful towels to cool plates, utensils, and cups.

Our top picks:

• Derma Eco Baby Nappy Cream – Vegan and hypoallergenic

• Eco baby wipes made from FSC-certified wood pulp without microplastics (Smartkids)

• Swim diapers

Take care of your little one’s skin and the planet. Discover all our sustainable baby care products on Grace is Green!