Everyday care
Bath, cord, nails, and taking a temperature
When to get help: fever, breathing, feeding and other warning signs. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
Bath
- Two or three baths a week are enough at first. Use warm (not hot) water, test it with your elbow, and never leave your baby alone in the bath, even for a moment.
- Until the cord stump falls off (usually in 1 to 3 weeks), a sponge bath is easiest. Keep the stump clean and dry.
Nails and skin
- File or trim nails when your baby is calm or asleep. Mild newborn rashes and peeling skin are common and usually go away on their own.
Taking a temperature
- Under 2 years, a rectal temperature with a digital thermometer is the most accurate. Armpit is fine for a first check: confirm a high reading.
- Log it in Temperature: the app tells you when a reading is a fever.
Medicines
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before giving any medicine, and follow the label exactly. Use the measuring syringe that comes with it.
- Never give aspirin to children, and don’t give ibuprofen under 6 months unless your doctor says so.
Car seats
- Rear-facing in a properly installed car seat for every ride, for as long as the seat allows.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
- NHS (UK National Health Service)
- Canadian Paediatric Society (Caring for Kids)
General information for most babies, not medical advice. Your doctor, nurse or midwife knows your baby: always ask them, and call your local emergency number in an emergency.