Hi,
If you are using disposable nappies, nappy cream can actually clog up the pores of the nappy and reduce their effectiveness. Therefore it should be avoided unless your baby is sore.
If you are using washable nappies then nappy cream won't affect them in the same way. However, again it is unnecessary unless they actually have a rash.
Remember that it's poo and wee mixed together which causes most nappy rash so keeping your baby clean and dry is the most important thing. Nappy wipes are dreadful as they almost always contain alcohol which is drying, and they are made from plastic which is why they're not flushable - yet more waste in the environment.
I strongly recommend plain water on cotton wool, or fleece or terry squares (wash them with your nappies if you're using cloth). Alternatively, try Ellie Smellie Wipes which are wetted with aloe vera, tea trea and lavender and made from paper, so flushable (and the manufacturer makes a donation to an AIDS orphanage in South Africa for every pack sold!).
Powder can be useful for some babies from time to time, especially if they're very wrinkly, but really leaving them to dry naturally is much better. It's certainly not something I would recommend using every day as it can be inhaled by your baby - not good.
I personally like Bepanthen as a sore bottom barrier, especially when the skin is extremely sore and/or has broken down. Burts Bees diaper cream is nice for unbroken skin which is a bit red. Canestan cream is a life saver when the attack is caused by thrush (check with your GP or health visitor).
Finally, silk bourette liners popped inside a nappy (dispie or cottie) works magic when trying to heal a nappy rash (assuming the root cause, eg thrush, is being treated). Just take good care of them and hand wash them.
Hope this helps,
Emma
www.makesachange.co.uk/
The Organic and Fair Trade Baby Boutique