DIY Natural Diaper Rash Remedy (with tallow and lanolin)
Designed specifically for dry patches and diaper rash, this simple diaper rash remedy balm allows you to skip the overpriced, chemical-laden creams and nourish your baby’s skin gently and naturally.
This post may contain affiliate links, please read our privacy policy for details.
As a new mama, I’m making it my mission to use only the best products on our little boy. Until I work up the courage to use cloth diapers, we are using disposables which can cause redness and rashes on little sensitive baby bums.
We were loading on the zinc cream as per doctors orders but it wasn’t doing much to clear up the redness. We were gifted a baby balm that contained lanolin and it worked great! Once that ran out, I opted to make my own using lanolin, tallow, infused olive oil and beeswax. Simple, hydrating, soothing and even more effective than the gifted balm!
It seems slightly inappropriate to show a photo of my boy’s bum so you’ll have to take my word for it. He hasn’t had a diaper rash since I started using this diaper rash balm! Obviously every baby is different, it may not suit your baby’s skin type, but this balm is what works for us!
I’ve also put little daps of it on dry patches on his skin and it’s worked like a charm! I even use it when he doesn’t have a diaper rash. It keeps his skin hydrated and poops easier to clean up!
Keep in mind, as this diaper rash remedy balm contains lanolin, which is traditionally used to waterproof fabrics, it is NOT suitable for cloth diapering! But you can use it if you dare and have a REALLY thorough diaper-washing routine.
Why You’ll Love This Tallow & Lanolin Baby Balm
Tips
let it cool down slowly: I found the beeswax cooled down faster than the other ingredients. Allowing it to properly combine, cooling down on the double boiler slowly and stirring it while cooling ensure the ingredients stay combined and smooth.
always dry your baby’s skin: Completely dry your baby’s skin before applying the balm. This ensures proper hydration and that there’s no excess moisture trapped to help clear up rashes quickly. (I use these reusable cotton cloths to wipe and dry baby bum!)
do NOT use with cloth diapers: This balm contains lanolin, which is traditionally used to waterproof fabrics, which is NOT suitable for cloth diapering!
makes for a great gift: I love gifting this baby balm to new mamas! It is a thoughtful and useful gift. They may even ask you for more…
Ingredients
- tallow: bought online or learn how to render your own
- lanolin (aka wool wax): I got some online but if you’re able to source locally, do that!
- beeswax: I’ve got local beeswax but you can find in online or in stores
- olive oil: preferably herbal infused with chamomile and/or calendula but plain olive oil is fine too
Materials
- small metal bowl for melting ingredients on top of double boiler
- kitchen scale for precise measurements (the one linked is the scale I use and love and have used in bakeries I’ve worked at, it’s legit)
- little silicone spatula for mixing
- small saucepan for double boiling (the one linked comes with a small silicone spatula!)
- 4 oz. jar for storing the balm
Step-by-Step Instructions
STEP 1: Measure out the tallow, beeswax, lanolin, and olive oil into a medium metal bowl.
STEP 2: Choose a small saucepan that the metal bowl can rest on without touching the bottom. Fill the saucepan halfway with water to create a double boiler.
STEP 3: Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Place the bowl of fats on top of the saucepan, allowing them to melt slowly. Stir often during this process.
STEP 4: Once the mixture is completely melted, turn off the heat. Give the liquid a final stir and wipe any residue from the edges of the bowl.
STEP 5: Leave the bowl on top of the saucepan to cool. This slow cooling process ensures the edges don’t set faster than the centre, preventing grainy “hard bits” from forming in the balm.
STEP 6: Stir the mixture occasionally while it cools. This may take one to two hours depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
STEP 7: Once the balm has reached a firm, paste-like consistency, transfer it into a clean jar for storage.
STEP 8: Use about a pea-size amount (or as much is needed) on your baby’s DRY bum after a diaper change!
DIY Natural Diaper Rash Balm FAQ
How To Store
- Airtight Container: Use a little jar or tin with a tight lid to prevent oxidation and keep the fats fresh.
- Cool & Dark: Store away from direct sunlight, stovetops, or humid bathrooms.
- Stable Temperature: Avoid fluctuating heat, which can melt the balm and cause it to reset with a grainy texture.
- Keep it Clean: Always use dry, clean hands to scoop the balm to prevent introducing bacteria or moisture.
Shelf Life: Properly stored, this balm stays fresh for 6–12 months.
DIY Natural Diaper Rash Cream | Soothing Tallow & Lanolin Balm
Ingredients
- 35g tallow
- 25g olive oil plain or herbal infused
- 25g lanolin
- 5g beeswax
Instructions
- Measure out the tallow, beeswax, lanolin, and olive oil into a medium metal bowl.
- Choose a small saucepan that the metal bowl can rest on without touching the bottom. Fill the saucepan halfway with water to create a double boiler.
- Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Place the bowl of fats on top of the saucepan, allowing them to melt slowly. Stir often during this process.
- Once the mixture is completely melted, turn off the heat. Give the liquid a final stir and wipe any residue from the edges of the bowl.
- Leave the bowl on top of the saucepan to cool. This slow cooling process ensures the edges don’t set faster than the centre, preventing grainy "hard bits" from forming in the balm.
- Stir the mixture occasionally while it cools. This may take one to two hours depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
- Once the balm has reached a firm, paste-like consistency, transfer it into a clean jar for storage.
- Use about a pea-size amount (or as much is needed) on your baby's DRY bum after a diaper change!
