They’re small, soft and squirmy—so it’s no wonder that caring for your baby’s hygiene can feel a little daunting. Newborn Grooming 101: What Every Parent Should Know is here to ease those first-time jitters and guide you through the essentials. From sponge baths to brushing wispy hair and trimming tiny nails, every task becomes a chance to nurture and connect. And don’t worry—practice makes progress.
Cleaning the umbilical cord stump and cutting tiny fingernails, while learning how to care for your newborn’s eyes, nose and ears may be overwhelming at first. Think of it as another wonderful opportunity to bond with your baby, and remember to communicate while you are grooming.
This guide will help you on this intimate journey of grooming your infant:
The umbilical cord stump
The umbilical cord is your baby’s life source throughout pregnancy. This is clamped and cut after birth, leaving the umbilical stump. The clamp is left on for the first day or so of your newborn’s life; thereafter, your doctor or midwife will remove it. The cord stump needs to remain as dry as possible for the following 10 to 14 days, after which it will fall off. Do not be tempted to pull at it.
The cord has no nerve endings, so cleaning your baby’s cord is not painful for them. If your baby cries and fusses, it is because the surgical spirits is cold and they may not like the cool sensation on their skin.
Keeping the cord stump clean:
- Pat the cord, including the clamp if still attached, and the entire area of the navel with a piece of cotton wool or gauze that has been moistened with surgical spirits. Don’t be afraid to lift or move the cord stump – it is important to get the spirits into the base of the cord in order for it to dry out.
- Gently pat the area dry with clean cotton wool.
- As the cord stump begins to dry and shrivel, you can begin to clean it with a cotton bud.
- An aloe-based medicated powder may be used as an alternative to, or in addition to, surgical spirits. Sprinkle medicated powder over the umbilical area.
- It is essential that the stump be kept clean and dry. Even after the stump has fallen off, the wound must be allowed to get as much air as possible to prevent infection.
- When putting a nappy on your baby, fold over the top to keep the stump exposed to air. Some disposable newborn nappies now even have a cutout for the stump.
A spotting of blood for the first six weeks or so is normal, but a swollen and red cord stump and surrounding area may be signs of an infection, as is pus coming from the navel. Consult your doctor at the first sign of infection.
Ears
Ear wax is secreted by the body to protect the ear canal. It seals out the moisture, dust, pollution and bacteria. Ear infections are common among small babies, so maintaining a routine of keeping your newborn’s ears clean is essential.
After your baby’s topping and tailing routine or when you’ve bathed your infant:
- Take a piece of damp cotton wool and gently wipe the outer part of your baby’s ear. Never insert anything into your baby’s eyes, nose or ears. Cotton swabs, buds or fingers could rupture the eardrums or make the walls of your baby’s ears bleed.
- Do not wipe the inner part. Only wipe away ear wax that has been naturally expelled from the ear canal.
- Be sure to wipe well behind the ear.
“With a little patience, help and choosing those moments when your baby is calmest, grooming them doesn’t have to be as scary as you might at first think.”
Eyes
The delicate eyes of your newborn need proper attention to keep them healthy. Clean them regularly for the first few months of your baby’s life.
- Your newborn’s skin is very sensitive. Dampen a piece of cotton wool with water that has been boiled and cooled. Only use a facecloth after about three months.
- Newborns often have crusty eyes after a sleep. With your baby’s eyes closed, wipe the eyelids from the inside to the outside corners to prevent the spread of any infection.
- If there is a mild infection (a sticky discharge; red and swollen eyes) try a drop of breast milk in each eye. If the antibacterial properties in the breast milk do not relieve the infection, consult your paediatrician.
- Use a new piece of cotton wool for each eye.
- Blocked tear ducts form tears in the eyes which roll down the cheeks. Your paediatrician will assess this and suggest a course of action, if necessary. However, most blocked tear ducts open on their own during a baby’s first year of life.
Nails
Your baby’s fingernails will be very thin and sharp, and will grow very quickly. It is important to keep them short to prevent your baby from scratching their own skin.
- Use blunt-nosed baby scissors.
- Trim your infant’s nails while they are sleeping, if possible. Otherwise, it may be advisable to have your partner present to help you hold your baby in a safe and comfortable position.
- Trim fingernails weekly. The toenails do not need to be trimmed until your baby is older.
- Smooth down sharp nails with a used emery board – this is easier than cutting the nails and will help to reduce the number of times your baby accidentally scratches themselves.
- Trimming their fingernails after bath time may be easier as they will be even softer. You can even tear them with your own fingernails at this time.
Nose
A baby with a congested nose may have difficulty feeding, and the stuffiness may also interrupt their sleep. The dry mucous membranes in the nose can be moistened with a couple drops of saline solution in each nostril. This will help to loosen the mucus.
- Use the corner of a folded tissue to gently coax mucus out of your infant’s nose.
- For daily, problem-free cleaning, gently wipe your baby’s nose and around each nostril with a piece of damp cotton wool.
- Let your baby sleep in a slightly elevated position – about a 30-degree angle. Gravity helps to drain the nasal passages and helps your little one to breathe easier.
With a little patience, help and choosing, those moments when your baby is calmest, grooming them doesn’t have to be as scary as you might at first think.
FAQs: Baby Care Basics: Newborn Grooming 101
How often should I bathe my newborn?
Newborns only need a bath 2 to 3 times a week. Daily baths can dry out their delicate skin. On non-bath days, you can gently clean their face, neck, and nappy area.
What’s the best way to clean my baby’s face?
Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton wool and warm water to gently wipe their face. Pay attention to folds around the eyes, ears, and neck, where milk or lint may collect.
Can I use soap or shampoo on my newborn?
For the first few weeks, plain warm water is usually enough. If you do use soap or shampoo, choose ones that are mild, fragrance-free, and made specifically for babies.
How do I care for my baby’s nails?
Baby nails grow quickly and can be sharp. Use baby nail scissors or a soft emery board while your baby is calm or sleeping. Avoid biting them off, as it can cause infection.
How should I clean my baby’s ears?
Wipe only the outer part of the ear with a soft cloth. Never insert cotton buds or anything into the ear canal, as this can cause injury.
Is it normal for my newborn to have flaky skin?
Yes, many newborns shed a layer of skin in the first few weeks. This is normal and doesn’t need treatment. You can use a gentle baby moisturiser if the skin seems dry.
How do I clean my baby’s eyes?
If your baby has discharge or sticky eyes, gently wipe from the inner to the outer corner using cotton wool dampened with cooled boiled water. Use a fresh piece for each eye.
Do I need to brush my newborn’s hair?
If your baby has hair, use a soft baby brush or comb to gently smooth it. Brushing can help prevent cradle cap and soothe your baby.
What is cradle cap and how do I treat it?
Cradle cap is a common, harmless condition where greasy, yellowish scales form on the scalp. You can gently massage in baby oil, leave it for a few minutes, and brush it out before washing.
When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Until then, you can gently clean gums with a soft cloth.
What baby grooming items should I have at home?
A basic grooming kit should include baby nail scissors or a file, a soft brush or comb, cotton wool, baby wipes, baby-safe shampoo and body wash, and a thermometer.\
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general guidance only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your midwife, health visitor, or GP if you have concerns about your baby’s grooming, skin, or health.
Taking your premature baby home is an exciting yet daunting experience. Learn what to expect, what to watch out for, and how to care for …
