What are the best nappies for babies on holiday?

During the holiday season, it’s normal for routines to change – spending more time outdoors, at the beach, by the pool, travelling more…All of this, combined with high temperatures, humidity and sweating, can increase discomfort and lead to nappy rash if certain precautions aren’t taken. As a result, a baby’s skin needs change in summer, which means choosing the right nappies for the holidays is particularly important – it makes all the difference when it comes to keeping your baby comfortable and protecting their skin. At Farmaciasdirect, we stock a full range and are here to advise and help you choose the most suitable option. Read on!

What to bear in mind when choosing nappies for the summer

If you’re wondering which are the best nappies for your baby in summer, the answer will depend on what they’ll be doing. They won’t need the same nappy for sleeping as they do for swimming in the pool or spending lots of time playing.

However, in general, due to the increase in heat and humidity, it’s important to choose a nappy with good absorbency, made from breathable and soft materials, and with a comfortable fit to prevent chafing and irritation. We’ll tell you what to bear in mind and what type of nappy to choose for each situation.

Swim nappies: the key for the pool and beach

Unlike normal nappies, which absorb liquids on contact, swim nappies are specifically designed for use at the beach or in the pool, as they do not absorb water and therefore neither swell nor slip off, making them much more comfortable.

A very common question about these is whether they retain urine. The answer is no, as they are not designed to absorb liquids. Although they may retain small amounts of urine, their main function is to contain stools, allowing water to pass through the nappy whilst your baby enjoys a comfortable swim. It is advisable to check the nappy every 30–40 minutes and change it immediately after the bath.

To choose the ideal swim nappy, you should bear in mind:
1. Size and age. Choose the swim nappy based on weight.
2. Proper fit. It must fit snugly to prevent leaks.
3. Comfort. Although it should fit snugly, you should also ensure that the baby is comfortable and that it does not feel too tight.

Here at Farmaciasdirect, we recommend:

Dodot Splasher

Dodot Splasher swim nappies are designed to be lightweight, allowing your baby freedom of movement, with a comfortable 360° fit and an elasticated waistband that adapts perfectly to your baby’s body, helping to prevent leaks even in the water. What’s more, as they have tear-away sides, nappy changes are very easy – there’s no need to pull the nappy down – making them ideal for quick changes.

Nappies for maximum summer activity

In summer, our babies become much more active; they spend far more time crawling, walking, playing or travelling, so they need a nappy that keeps up with all their movements without compromising on absorbency.

Here at Farmaciasdirect, we recommend:

Dodot Activity

Provides up to 12 hours of leak-proof protection, even at the back. Dodot Activity fits snugly and comfortably to allow for ease of movement, preventing leaks whilst playing or on the go. What’s more, thanks to its 3-layer system, it absorbs wee and loose stools more quickly, minimising contact with the skin and helping to prevent any skin irritation.

Nappies for sensitive skin in hot weather

Another aspect to bear in mind during the summer is your baby’s skin. It is naturally much more delicate, and during these months, the heat, sweat and prolonged contact with moisture can lead to irritation, chafing, redness or nappy rash. For this reason, in such cases, it is advisable to choose nappies specially designed to minimise contact between your baby’s skin and moisture and to provide extra care for the most sensitive skin.

Here at Farmaciasdirect, we recommend:

Dodot Sensitive

They are made from ultra-soft, high-quality materials to provide that extra softness for your baby’s skin. It features a 3-layer absorption system, which helps to absorb moisture quickly, reducing the time the skin remains in contact with it, and also provides up to 12 hours of leak-proof protection thanks to its barriers, preventing leaks at the back and sides. What’s more, Dodot Sensitive also features a handy wetness indicator on the front, which changes colour when the nappy is wet, letting you know when it’s time to change it without having to open it.

Tips for changing nappies away from home this summer

And as it’s common to spend many hours away from home during the holidays, maintaining good hygiene whilst changing nappies is essential to protect your baby’s skin and prevent nappy rash. The most important thing isn’t to do it perfectly, but to do it in a practical, safe and gentle way that respects your baby’s skin.
Firstly, packing a small nappy bag properly is key; it’s not about taking too much, but about taking the essentials: a portable changing mat, spare nappies, wet wipes, a change of clothes, protective nappy cream and a bag for disposing of used nappies. Having everything to hand will make changing nappies easier, even when you don’t have a proper changing mat available.

The steps to follow are:

1. Choose a safe place. The important thing is that it’s stable, clean and dry.
2. Get everything ready before you start. Never leave the baby alone at any time.
3. Wash your hands before you start.
4. Remove the soiled nappy. Do this gently, taking care not to drag any residue across the skin.
5. Clean the area properly, always wiping from front to back, without rubbing, and paying attention to the skin folds. One of the most common questions when changing a nappy away from home is how to clean without water. The most recommended options are:
   Wet wipes, the most practical option. Micellar water and cotton wool, the gentlest option for the skin
6. Dry the skin thoroughly: this is essential to prevent irritation, as trapped moisture can lead to nappy rash and dermatitis.
7. Apply cream, especially if the skin is red or sensitive. Applying a barrier cream at every nappy change can help protect the skin from moisture and chafing, particularly during the warmer months.
8. Put on a clean nappy. It should fit snugly but not be too tight, so that the skin can breathe.

As you can see, there isn’t just one nappy that’s best for every situation; the key is to choose the most suitable one depending on what your baby is going to be doing. At Farmaciadirect you’ll find a wide selection for every moment of the summer; we’ll help you choose the best nappy for this holiday so your baby can enjoy maximum comfort and protection.