See your doctor if the rash does not improve within one week or is severe. Persistent nappy rash that does not respond to nappy creams might need a medicated cream, such as an antifungal (e.g. Canesten, Daktarin, Nystatin to treat candida infections) or hydrocortisone (e.g. Sigmacort 1% to treat the redness).

The name “diaper” stuck in the US and Canada. In Britain the word “nappy,” short for baby napkin, became more popular and replaced it.

Parents who practice the 'nappy-free' method, also known as Elimination Communication or 'baby-led' potty-training, introduce the potty to their babies when they are newborns. The method involves learning to spot the signs that tell you when your baby needs to go, and holding them over a potty, sink or toilet.

Nappy thrush looks like a bright red shiny rash with clear patches, and red dots with pus-like bumps. It's different to nappy rash, which happens because of moisture on babies' skin. Antifungal creams, ointments, gels and drops are commonly used to treat thrush.