Newborn Care Basics
Essential information for caring for your newborn, from feeding to sleep schedules.
This educational resource provides general information about newborn care. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for personalized advice about your baby's specific needs.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
Feeding Your Newborn
Breastfeeding
- Feed on demand - typically 8-12 times per day in the first weeks
- Watch for hunger cues: rooting, sucking motions, bringing hands to mouth
- Ensure proper latch - baby's mouth should cover most of the areola
- Feed from both breasts at each feeding
- Look for signs baby is getting enough: 6+ wet diapers, steady weight gain, contentment after feeding
- Seek help from a lactation consultant if you experience pain or difficulty
Formula Feeding
- Follow formula preparation instructions carefully
- Feed every 2-3 hours in the first weeks
- Hold baby during feeding for bonding and safety
- Never prop a bottle - always hold it
- Discard unused formula after 1 hour at room temperature
- Watch for signs of fullness: turning away, closing mouth, falling asleep
Sleep Patterns
Newborns sleep a lot, but in short bursts. Understanding their sleep patterns helps you manage expectations and create a safe sleep environment.
- Total sleep: 14-17 hours per day in the first month
- Sleep cycles: 2-4 hours at a time
- Day/night confusion: Common in first weeks - keep days bright and nights dark
- Safe sleep: Always place baby on their back in a crib with a firm mattress
- No soft bedding: Remove pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals from crib
- Room sharing: AAP recommends room sharing (not bed sharing) for first 6-12 months
Diapering
Frequency
- Change every 2-3 hours or when wet/soiled
- Newborns may have 6-10 wet diapers daily
- Breastfed babies may have frequent, loose stools
- Formula-fed babies typically have fewer, firmer stools
Diaper Rash Prevention
- Change diapers frequently
- Clean gently with warm water
- Allow skin to air dry
- Use diaper cream as needed
- Avoid tight-fitting diapers
Bathing Your Newborn
When to Bathe
- Sponge baths until umbilical cord falls off (usually 1-2 weeks)
- After cord falls off, tub baths 2-3 times per week
- Daily baths aren't necessary - can dry out baby's skin
- Focus on cleaning face, neck, hands, and diaper area daily
Bathing Tips
- Use warm (not hot) water - test with your wrist
- Keep room warm to prevent chilling
- Never leave baby unattended in water
- Use mild, fragrance-free baby soap
- Support baby's head and neck at all times
- Keep bath time short (5-10 minutes)
- Wrap baby in towel immediately after bath
Umbilical Cord Care
- Keep the cord clean and dry
- Fold diaper below the cord to keep it exposed to air
- Sponge baths only until cord falls off
- Don't pull on the cord - let it fall off naturally
- Watch for signs of infection: redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge
- Cord typically falls off in 1-3 weeks
Newborn Development Milestones
First Month
- Lifts head briefly when on tummy
- Focuses on faces 8-12 inches away
- Responds to sounds
- Grasps finger when placed in palm
- Makes eye contact
Second Month
- Smiles responsively
- Coos and makes vowel sounds
- Follows objects with eyes
- Holds head up for longer periods
- Shows more interest in faces
When to Call Your Pediatrician
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C) in babies under 3 months
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Persistent crying or unusual irritability
- Refusal to eat or difficulty feeding
- Signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, sunken soft spot)
- Unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking
- Vomiting (not just spitting up)
- Signs of infection around umbilical cord
- Any concerns that feel urgent to you