I am always interested in simplifying the cloth diaper routine. My most recent routine involved pre-wetting cloth wipes with a solution and keeping them layered in a pop-up container. On the go, I would simply wet wipes with water or keep a spray bottle handy. All of these options work fine, but pre-moistened wipes are often cold and I don’t always remember a water bottle. This is where La Petite Creme intrigued me – it is a diaper cleanser and lotion in one that requires no water.
La Petite Cream co-founder Cecile Largeau learned about this French system of diapering from a Baby Nurse named Fanny. Cecile grew up in France, but moved to the US before having children. When her daughter was born, Fanny took Cecile under her wing and showed her how to diaper the “French way.”
Fanny explained that French moms don’t use baby wipes to change a diaper. They use a lotion made of all natural ingredients (primarily olive oil and lime water) that is applied on a cotton pad or a washcloth. This lotion is unique because it does not need to be rinsed off. The cream that is not wiped off creates a thin layer of olive oil that remains on the skin for protection. This natural barrier helps nourish skin and guard against diaper rash.
Cecile started by making lotion for her own kids, alongside Fanny. She decided to create the natural La Petite Cream product line after having her pediatrician regularly ask, “Why are French babies the only ones without diaper rashes?” The cream can be used with both disposable and cloth diapers, but is especially ideal for using along cloth wipes.
La Petite Cream sent me a full-sized 8 oz pump bottle, a 2 oz travel size, lovely cloth wipes, and super-soft disposable cloth pads. I immediately added the 8 oz pump to my diaper station and prepared a pop-up cloth wipes container with dry wipes. I then added the 2 oz size with some cloth and disposable wipes in a small wet bag for travel.
I was uncertain at first if I should put the cream directly on baby or on the wipe. Putting a dab on baby for a wet diaper works, but it is less effective with a soiled diaper. I found that the most efficient method with La Petite Cream is to put a moderate amount on a cloth wipe, then fold the wipe to distribute the cream.
The more you spread out the cream, the better. This will allow you to make the most of one wipe. I will admit that I found La Petite Cream frustrating for soiled diapers at first because I felt like I couldn’t make the most out of one wipe and be as efficient. But I learned to use the wipe more efficiently over time and to add a bit of cream directly onto the baby’s skin after the first wipe or two.
I ultimately found that a squeeze or two of La Petite Cream and one wipe could go a long way. The picture below uses some grape jelly as a stand in for poop. I distributed the cream on the wipe, did an initial clean, folded the wipe over, then used the cream soaked to the back to finish wiping. I conquered the grape jelly mess with one wipe and it left my hand clean and moisturized – and left with a clean, delightful smell.
I have never heard of this but I really like the idea. We currently use cloth wipes and I use a spray bottle to spray directly on baby, wipe clean, then apply some bottom balm. But my son hates diaper changes and this would reduce a step, getting everything done sooner. I’d love to try this.
This all-in-one cream is such a great, idea, I’ve never seen anything like it. I love the all natural ingredients too. Already added to my registry!
Interesting, sounds really awesome! I would absolutely give this a try rather than using spray or wetting the wipes. Is this good for curing diaper rash as well?
I am not sure if it helps with existing diaper rashes, as far as healing goes. I will say that it helps prevent future rashes.
I just learned about this a month or so ago and I really want to try it. Thanks for the review!
It looks awesome, I can’t wait to try it myself. It’s always interesting when you realize you forgot your water bottle and you’re trying to clean a messy diaper. This would save that headache!
I like the focus on prevention rather than treatment. Such a great idea to keep the skin clean and healthy and protect with oil.
I think it makes a big difference for dryness and redness.
I use the same cloth wipes ;] I usually make my own wipe spray but can’t wait to try this!
Sounds great for newborns with red bums from going poop every change!
I love this idea! it seems way more convenient than carrying around a spray bottle.
I can’t wait to try this on my little one!
Looks great! I’m intrigued.
Ooh! This looks awesome. Would love to try!
it is oaww, it is oll i need it
Thanks for the picture! I was wondering how to use this with a soiled diaper and the picture helped a lot. Looks like a great idea! I feel like the only time I need the wet wipe is also the time it stings my little guys bum so this would help with that!
What a neat product! I currently use a spray bottle solution with my cloth wipes but this sounds a whole lot better. I really like that it acts as a protective barrier against rashes.
I didn’t know there was “French way” to diaper!
Me either! It was all new to me. 🙂
I love that it requires no water. I’ve got to try these products soon!