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Life is completely different now that your baby is here, and it’s natural to have plenty of questions about what to do next and How to Take Care of a Newborn Baby. Total Bump has prepared this guide to help you feel confident and ready to care for your newborn in no time.
What to Expect When You Bring Your Newborn Home?
Bringing your newborn (or twins!) home is such a joyful and exciting milestone, but it’s completely normal to feel a bit exhausted or overwhelmed.
You may have already prepared for your baby’s arrival by setting up a cozy nursery. Now is the perfect time to organize your home so that essentials like diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and feeding supplies are always within reach. We’ve put together some great ideas for you in our Essential Baby Gear Checklist, with 30 must-have items for your newborn.
Adjusting to life as a new parent can feel like a big transition, especially if it’s your first time—or if you’re juggling a growing family with other kids. Remember, there’s always support available to help you navigate this precious and transformative chapter.
In the first few days, focus on keeping a simple routine. Feed your baby when they’re hungry (which could be every 2-3 hours), and don’t forget to change diapers regularly to avoid rashes. Let your baby sleep as much as they need, but try to wake them up for feedings if necessary. Spend plenty of time bonding through skin-to-skin contact, and talk or sing to them—this helps with emotional development. If you’re breastfeeding, try to find a comfortable position and be patient with the learning curve.
Rest when you can, even if it’s just a quick nap while your baby sleeps. It’s also helpful to keep a list of important phone numbers handy your pediatrician, a lactation consultant, or a trusted friend who can offer guidance. Don’t hesitate to ask for help around the house or with the baby—whether it’s from your partner, family, or a hired professional. And most importantly, take time for yourself too, this is a big adjustment, and self-care is just as important as caring for your baby.
How Do I Handle My Baby?
If you’re new to being around newborns, they might seem super fragile at first, but don’t worry Here are a few helpful tips for you:
Keep Your Hands Clean: Before picking up your baby, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to keep germs away. Newborns have tiny immune systems and can catch infections easily. It’s also a good idea to remind anyone else who wants to hold your baby to do the same.
Start with Support: When you first hold your baby, always make sure to support their head and neck. Newborns have limited head control, so it’s important to gently cradle their neck with one hand while supporting their bottom with the other.
Use Both Hands: When picking up your baby, gently slide one hand under their bottom and the other behind their head. Hold them close to your chest for added comfort and security, both for you and for your baby.
Try Different Positions: You’ll find that different holding positions work better at different times. The “cradle hold” (holding them against your chest with their head resting in the crook of your arm) is great for bonding and soothing, while the “football hold” (with baby tucked under your arm, facing outward) can be helpful for breastfeeding or if you need extra support.
Stay Calm and Confident: It’s completely normal to feel nervous at first, but try to stay calm. Your baby can sense your anxiety, so taking deep breaths and speaking to them gently can help both of you feel more relaxed.
Engage Through Touch:
Babies really enjoy being close to you, feeling your warmth and comfort. If you’re sitting down, try holding your baby in your lap or against your chest while you talk or sing to them. Your touch and voice provide comfort and reassurance.
Watch Their Cues:
As you handle your baby, keep an eye on their body language. If they seem fussy or uncomfortable, try adjusting how you’re holding them. If they’re relaxed and calm, you’re probably doing just fine!
Take Breaks If You Need Them:
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed or need a break, it’s totally fine to put your baby in a safe spot, like their crib or bassinet, and take a breather.
Handle with Care: Never shake your baby, even playfully or out of frustration. Shaking can cause serious harm, including brain injuries. If you need to wake your baby, try gently tickling their feet or softly blowing on their cheek instead.
Secure Your Baby Properly: Whether you’re using a stroller, carrier, or car seat, always make sure your baby is strapped in securely. Avoid sudden movements or anything too bouncy that might make them uncomfortable.
Keep Playtime Gentle: Newborns are too delicate for rough play like bouncing on your knee or tossing in the air. Stick to soft, soothing interactions to keep them safe and happy.
Ask for Help:
Don’t hesitate to ask your partner, family members, or friends for assistance, especially when you’re still getting used to handling your little one. It’s perfectly okay to need support!
How Can I Soothe My Baby?
Soothing your baby can feel like an art, but with a little patience and these gentle techniques, you’ll find what works best for your little one:
- Massage
A calming massage can work wonders for a fussy baby. Use a bit of baby-safe lotion or oil and gently rub their back, tummy, arms, and legs. Not only can this help your baby relax, but it’s also a lovely bonding experience for both of you. - Sounds
Babies find comfort in familiar, rhythmic sounds. Try playing white noise, soft lullabies, or even humming to them. The sound of your voice, especially when you speak or sing softly, can be incredibly soothing. - Swaddling
Swaddling mimics the cozy feeling of being in the womb and can help your baby feel safe and secure. Wrap them snugly in a soft blanket, keeping their arms tucked in but leaving enough room for their legs to move. A well-swaddled baby often feels calmer and sleeps more soundly.
Every baby is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment with these techniques to find what works best for your little one. Sometimes, your touch and presence are all they need to feel comforted.
How Do I Care for the Circumcision and Umbilical Cord Area?
Here are simple steps to care for your baby’s circumcision and umbilical cord area. You might feel afraid to touch it at first, but you’ll soon discover that it’s easier than you thought.
- Umbilical Cord Care
- Keep the area clean and dry. Use a sponge bath to avoid getting the cord wet until it falls off naturally, which usually happens within two weeks.
- Make sure the diaper sits below the cord to prevent irritation.
- Resist the urge to pull or tug at the cord, even if it’s hanging on by a thread—let it fall off on its own.
- Circumcision Care
- If your baby has been circumcised, gently clean the area with warm water during diaper changes. Avoid using soap unless recommended by your doctor.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the tip of the penis to prevent it from sticking to the diaper.
- Watch for redness, swelling, or signs of infection, and contact your pediatrician if you notice anything unusual.
Remember, both areas will heal quickly with proper care. Be gentle, and always follow your doctor’s guidance if you have any concerns. Your baby will be good as new in no time!
When to Seek Medical Attention?
Call your doctor or seek emergency care if you notice any of the following:
- Heavy, bright-red bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure.
- Your baby hasn’t had a wet diaper within 8–10 hours after the circumcision.
- Signs of infection, such as swelling, increased redness, or foul-smelling discharge.
- A rectal temperature higher than 100.4°F, especially if your baby is less active, has lost their appetite, or has unusually watery bowel movements.
Following these steps will help ensure your baby heals comfortably and stays healthy. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
How Do I Diaper My Baby?
Changing diapers might feel tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it in no time! Keep everything you need—clean diaper, wipes, and diaper cream—within reach. Gently clean your baby’s bottom, fasten the new diaper snugly (but not too tight!), and make sure the tabs are secure. That’s it! For a full, step-by-step guide, check out our detailed article on How to Change a Diaper for new moms.
When Should I Bathe My Baby?
Some parents bathe their babies daily as part of a bedtime routine or to clean up frequent messes like spit-up and diaper blowouts. However, for most families, bathing two to three times a week is plenty after the first couple of weeks.
In fact, it’s best to wait at least two weeks before giving your newborn their first full bath. During the first week, babies naturally shed about three layers of skin as they adjust to the dry air—something that often surprises new parents! To prevent irritation, keep their skin moisturized with a chemical-free lotion and wash their clothes with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent before dressing them.
After those first two weeks, bathing your baby a few times a week is perfectly fine and can continue into their early childhood years. Of course, you can adjust based on your baby’s skin needs and your family’s routine.
How Often Should I Feed My Baby?
Newborns usually need to eat every 2-3 hours, or about 8-12 times a day, whether you’re breastfeeding or formula-feeding. Look for hunger cues like lip-smacking, rooting, or fussiness rather than waiting for a set schedule. As your baby grows, they’ll start eating less frequently but in larger amounts. By around 2-3 months, feedings may space out to every 3-4 hours. Always follow your baby’s signals—they’ll let you know when they’re hungry or full!
What Should I Know About My Baby’s Sleep?
Newborns sleep a lot—typically 16-18 hours a day—but in short bursts. They wake frequently to feed, as their tiny tummies need refueling. At first, their sleep cycle is shorter, with naps and nighttime sleep often mixed up. By around 3-4 months, they may start to sleep for longer stretches at night. It’s important to always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress, and avoid soft bedding to reduce the risk of SIDS. Each baby is different, so be patient and adjust to your baby’s unique sleep patterns.
Always place babies on their back to sleep to lower their risk of SIDS.
Newborn Baby Care Tips
It might feel like a lot, but don’t worry—you’ve got this! Here are some simple tips to help you care for your newborn:
- Dressing Your Newborn: Babies need to stay cozy, so it’s best to dress them in one extra layer than you’re wearing. A onesie or shirt with a diaper is a great start, followed by a cozy pajama or nightgown. Finish with a soft receiving blanket to keep them warm. On hot days, just a single layer of clothing is enough.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Skin-to-skin, also known as kangaroo care, is a wonderful bonding experience where you hold your baby close with their bare skin against yours. It’s not only great for emotional connection but also helps regulate their body temperature and heart rate. Plus, it releases feel-good hormones for both of you!
- Nail Care: Baby nails grow quickly, and it’s important to keep them trimmed to avoid accidental scratches. Once a month, gently trim their nails using baby-sized clippers or a soft nail file. Clean their hands before and after to keep things hygienic.
- Sponge Baths: Wait until at least 24 hours after birth before giving your baby their first bath. After that, a bath about three times a week is plenty—too many can dry out their delicate skin. Until their umbilical cord stump falls off, stick to sponge baths. Lay your baby on a soft surface, like a changing table or blanket on the floor, and gently wash their face and body with a damp cloth. Keep them warm by only uncovering the areas you’re washing.
It may take a bit of time to get the hang of things, but these tips will help keep your little one clean, cozy, and happy, and if your baby was born in winter here is a full article about Winter Care Tips for Newborns.
Thank you for reading! If you found this article helpful, be sure to explore more tips and guides for new parents on TotalBump. Our site has everything you need to make your parenting journey smoother. Happy reading
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