Isla Bennett
Newborns have fast-growing nails that need to be trimmed regularly to prevent them from accidentally scratching themselves or their parents. While some sources suggest cutting a newborn's nails within the first week of life, others recommend filing them every few days before clipping them after a few weeks. Toenails, in particular, may need to be trimmed twice a month or even less frequently. The task can be daunting for new parents, but with the right tools, a positive attitude, and helpful tips, it can be done safely and effectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to cut newborn nails | In the first week of life, then every 2-3 days for the first 3 weeks |
| How often to cut | Once a week for fingernails and every 2-3 weeks for toenails |
| Tools | Baby nail clippers, baby nail scissors with rounded ends, emery board, electric file |
| Baby's position | On your lap, on a flat surface, or when they are asleep |
| Holding technique | Hold the baby's hand or foot firmly, gently pull the pad of the finger or toe away from the nail |
| Cutting technique | Cut straight across, then file to smooth sharp edges |
| Precautions | Avoid biting or peeling nails, do not cut down the sides of the nail, do not use adult nail clippers |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut newborn nails safely
Newborns' nails have often been growing since before birth, so they may need a "manicure" in their first week of life. Their nails are softer and more pliable than adults' nails, but they can be sharp enough for babies to scratch themselves, especially on their faces.
Timing
The best time to cut your baby's nails is when they are asleep or very drowsy and calm. After a bath is a good time because their nails will be softer.
Lighting and positioning
Make sure you have plenty of light and that you hold your baby on your lap or on a flat surface.
Holding your baby's hands and feet
Hold your baby's hand or foot firmly and gently pull the pad of their finger or toe away from the nail. It can help if someone else holds the baby while you cut.
Cutting the nails
Use baby nail clippers or baby nail scissors with rounded ends. Cut the nail straight across, not too short, and avoid shaping the nail or cutting down the sides to prevent ingrown nails and infections.
Aftercare
Smooth the nail with an emery board (nail file) if there are any sharp edges. Check your baby's fingers for any fresh cuts or signs of infection.
Alternative methods
Some parents choose to use an electric nail file or bite or peel their baby's nails. However, biting or peeling the nails is not recommended as it can spread germs and cause infections or accidentally tear the nails back too far.
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How often to cut newborn nails
Keeping your newborn's nails trimmed is essential to minimise scratches to their face and eyes. Newborns have no control over their movements, so they can accidentally scratch or claw at their face and eyes.
It is recommended to trim a newborn's fingernails at least once a week and their toenails a few times a month. Toenails grow more slowly and require less maintenance. In the first few weeks of a newborn's life, their nails will still be soft, so it is possible to gently peel off the ends with your fingers. However, it is important to ensure that you do not peel off too much of the nail.
Some newborns may have longer nails than others, and some babies' nails grow faster than others. Therefore, it is important to regularly check your newborn's nails and trim them as necessary. Many parents report trimming their baby's nails every few days, especially in the first few weeks of life, as they can get very sharp quickly.
If you are worried about using baby nail scissors or clippers, you can gently file your baby's nails with an emery board. However, avoid using a metal emery board as it may damage your newborn's delicate skin. It is also important to note that biting your baby's nails is not recommended, as it can transfer germs from your mouth to your baby's skin and lead to an infection.
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What tools to use
Cutting a newborn's nails can be a daunting task, but it is important to prevent self-scratching and infections. The right tools can make this task easier and safer.
Baby nail clippers are designed for cutting a newborn's nails. They are small and allow for precise cutting. Some even have built-in magnifying glasses to help you see tiny nails better. When using clippers, ensure you cut straight across and avoid the sides of the nails to prevent ingrown nails and infections.
Baby nail scissors with rounded tips are another option. The rounded tips reduce the risk of accidentally poking your baby's skin. Like clippers, use scissors to cut nails straight across, avoiding the sides. If hangnails are present, scissors can be a good alternative to clippers.
If you are nervous about using clippers or scissors, an emery board (nail file) can be used to file down nails instead. Filing takes a little longer but can be a safer option. Nails should still be filed straight across, not on the curves, to prevent hangnails.
It is important to note that you should not bite or peel your baby's nails. Doing so can spread germs and cause infections. It can also be painful if you accidentally tear the nails back too far.
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What to do if you accidentally cut your newborn
It is important to trim your newborn's nails to prevent them from scratching themselves. However, trimming a newborn's nails can be challenging, and accidents can happen. Here is what you should do if you accidentally cut your newborn while trimming their nails:
Assess the Cut
If you accidentally cut your newborn's finger or toe, the first step is to assess the severity of the cut. Newborns have very small fingers and toes, so even a tiny cut can result in a lot of blood. Do not panic if you see blood; this is normal and does not necessarily indicate a serious injury.
Stop the Bleeding
If the cut is bleeding, your priority is to stop the bleeding. Gently apply pressure to the wound using a soft, clean cloth or a sterile gauze pad. Hold it firmly in place until the bleeding stops. You can also soak the injured finger or toe in warm water to clean the wound and help stop the bleeding. Do not use a bandage or dressing on the cut, as your baby may suck or chew on it, which could pose a choking hazard.
Prevent Infection
After stopping the bleeding, take steps to prevent infection. Apply a small amount of antiseptic cream or ointment to the cut to keep the area clean and prevent bacteria from entering the wound. Ensure your baby does not suck or lick the affected area, as their mouth may contain bacteria that could cause an infection. You can put a clean mitten or sock on the baby's hand to prevent them from sucking on the affected finger.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
Keep an eye on the cut over the next few days to ensure it is healing properly. If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around the cut, take your baby to the doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend other treatments to clear up the infection.
Learn from the Experience
Accidents happen, and many parents have accidentally cut their newborn's skin while trimming their nails. Try not to be too hard on yourself, and remember that your baby is likely to recover quickly from the incident. Learn from the experience and take extra care the next time you trim your baby's nails. With practice, you will become more confident and comfortable with the task.
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How to prevent ingrown nails and infections
Newborns' nails can vary in length, and some babies' nails grow faster than others. It is recommended to cut a newborn's nails when they are longer than their fingertips, as they may scratch themselves. The best time to cut a baby's nails is when they are asleep or very drowsy and calm. It is important to cut nails straight across, without shaping them, as cutting down the sides can cause ingrown nails and infections.
To prevent ingrown nails and infections, follow these steps:
Preventing Ingrown Nails
- Soak your nails in warm water before cutting them, or cut them after a shower or bath, as this will soften them.
- Cut your nails straight across, avoiding tapering or rounding the corners. Cutting nails too short can cause the skin on the sides to cover the corners, leading to ingrowth.
- Avoid ripping or tearing nails, as this can also lead to ingrown nails.
- Wear shoes that fit correctly. Ill-fitting shoes can cause trauma to the sides of the nails, increasing the risk of ingrowth.
- Avoid toe trauma, such as banging your toe or getting stepped on.
Preventing Nail Infections
- Clean your nail trimmer before using it to avoid the spread of bacteria.
- Avoid biting your nails or cuticles, as this can create tiny cracks or cuts in the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
- Avoid exposure to irritants such as detergents and other chemicals, as these can irritate the skin and lead to a nail bed infection.
- Avoid working with wet hands for prolonged periods, as this increases the risk of developing nail infections.
- If you have an underlying skin condition, take extra precautions, as you may be more susceptible to nail infections.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to cut your newborn's nails in their first week of life and every two to three days during the first three weeks.
It is recommended to trim your newborn's fingernails at least once a week and their toenails a few times a month. However, some newborns may need their nails trimmed more frequently, such as every few days or even daily, as their nails tend to grow quickly and can be sharp.
It is recommended to use baby nail clippers or baby nail scissors with rounded tips. You can also use an emery board to file your newborn's nails if you don't feel comfortable using scissors or clippers.
It is recommended to cut your newborn's nails when they are calm, drowsy, or asleep. You can hold them on your lap or on a flat surface, with their hand or foot firmly in place. Having someone assist you by holding the baby or distracting them with a toy or song can also be helpful.
Yes, it is important to work in a well-lit area to see the nails clearly. Always pull the pad of the finger or toe gently away from the nail to avoid cutting the skin. Cut the nails straight across, and avoid shaping or cutting down the sides to prevent ingrown nails and infections. If you accidentally cut your baby's skin, apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the bleeding stops.
