Liam Carter
Newborns' nails are often soft and pliable, but they can be sharp enough to scratch themselves and others. Cutting a newborn's nails can be a daunting task for new parents, but it is essential to keep the baby's nails clean and trimmed to minimise scratches to their face and eyes. This is because newborns have no control over their movements and can accidentally claw themselves. Toenails grow more slowly and require less maintenance, but fingernails should be trimmed at least once a week, and toenails a few times a month.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to cut newborn nails | Once a week for fingernails and once every few weeks for toenails. Some parents report cutting their baby's nails every few days, while others report not having to cut their baby's nails at all. |
| When to start cutting newborn nails | Some parents start cutting their baby's nails in the first week of life, while others wait until the nails have hardened, usually around one month. |
| Tools to cut newborn nails | Baby nail scissors with rounded tips, baby clippers, emery board, or nail files. |
| Techniques to cut newborn nails | Cut fingernails following the natural curve and toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the nail too low and nipping the quick. |
| Precautions when cutting newborn nails | Avoid using metal emery boards as they may damage the baby's delicate skin. If the baby's nails draw blood, apply pressure with a sterile gauze pad to stop the bleeding, but do not bandage the cut as it may pose a choking risk. |
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What You'll Learn
How often to cut newborn nails
Newborns' nails grow quickly and can be sharp, so it's important to keep them trimmed to prevent scratches to their face and eyes. When your baby is very young, you may need to trim their nails twice a week or even more frequently, as their nails harden and stop growing so fast. Toenails grow more slowly and require less maintenance, so they may only need trimming a few times a month.
If you're nervous about using scissors or clippers, you can gently file your baby's nails with an emery board. Make sure to use a special baby emery board and avoid metal ones, as these may damage your newborn's delicate skin. You can also cut their nails while they're sleeping or feeding, as they may wriggle otherwise. Alternatively, you can ask someone to help you by holding the baby while you trim.
As your baby gets older, you may be able to reduce how often you trim their nails. Once they reach toddler age, for example, you may only need to trim their fingernails once a week and their toenails every three to four weeks. However, some babies have faster-growing nails, so you may need to trim them more frequently.
It's important to use the right tools when trimming your baby's nails. Use special baby scissors with rounded tips or baby nail clippers. Avoid biting your baby's nails, as this can transfer germs and lead to infection.
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How to cut newborn nails
Cutting a newborn's nails can be a daunting task for new parents. However, it is essential to keep your baby's nails trimmed to minimise scratches to their face and eyes and to reduce the risk of infection. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut your newborn's nails safely:
Step 1: Choose the right time and place
Try cutting your baby's nails when they are calm, such as after bath time, as their nails will be softer and easier to cut. You can also try cutting them while they are sleeping or feeding.
Step 2: Gather the right tools
Use special baby nail scissors with rounded tips or baby nail clippers designed for this purpose. Avoid using adult nail clippers or scissors, as they may be too sharp or bulky for your newborn's delicate nails. Keep a clipper in your diaper bag so you can take advantage of any opportunity to cut their nails.
Step 3: Prepare the nails
Before cutting, clean your baby's hands and nails. You can also apply a bit of Vaseline under the nail to create an extra barrier between the nail and the skin, reducing the risk of accidental cuts.
Step 4: Cut the nails
Hold your baby's finger or toe firmly but gently. Cut the nail straight across, following the curvature of the finger to minimise sharp edges. Cut the nails just above the skin fold, leaving a small line at the tip. Do not completely remove the white tip, as this can damage the finger.
Step 5: Smooth the edges
After cutting, slowly run a nail file against any jagged or uneven edges until they are smooth.
Step 6: Handle accidents
If you accidentally cut your baby's skin, don't panic. Rinse the cut with cold water and cover it with sterile gauze or cloth. Apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops. Avoid using bandages, as they could pose a choking hazard if removed.
Remember, it is important to trim your newborn's nails regularly, about once or twice a week, to prevent them from becoming too long and sharp. You can also use mittens or socks on your baby's hands as a temporary measure to prevent scratches, but only for short periods, as your baby needs to have their hands free to explore and develop their sense of touch.
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Which tools to use
Newborns' nails are soft and pliable, and they can accidentally scratch themselves, especially around the face and eyes. It is essential to keep their nails clean and trimmed to minimise scratches and the risk of infection. Toenails grow more slowly and are generally very soft, so they require less maintenance and can be trimmed monthly.
When cutting a newborn's nails, it is important to use the right tools. If you don't feel confident using scissors or clippers, you can gently file your baby's nails with an emery board. Make sure to use a special baby emery board and avoid metal ones, as they may damage the baby's delicate skin. You can also use baby nail scissors, which have rounded tips to reduce the chance of poking and to follow the curves of the baby's fingers. These usually come with a removable guard to protect the baby from the blades.
If you are using clippers or scissors, be careful not to snip the fingertip skin. Press the finger pad away from the nail as you cut. If you accidentally draw blood, simply apply a little pressure and some antibiotic ointment. After clipping, if any nails are jagged or uneven, slowly run the file against them until they are smooth.
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What to do if your newborn scratches themselves
It is common for newborns to scratch themselves, especially their faces and eyes, as they have no control over their movements. To prevent this, it is important to keep your baby's nails clean and trimmed. Here are some tips on what to do if your newborn scratches themselves:
Firstly, try to keep your baby's nails short and well-maintained. You can use baby nail clippers or scissors to trim their nails gently. If you are worried about using clippers or scissors, you can also gently file their nails with a soft emery board specifically designed for babies. Newborn nails are soft enough that you can even gently peel off the ends with your fingers. Just be sure to clean your hands first.
If you are unable to trim their nails right away, you can put mittens or socks on your baby's hands as a temporary solution to prevent scratches. However, some babies may not keep these on, and it is important to allow babies to have their hands free to explore and feel with their fingers. Therefore, this should only be a temporary measure until you are able to trim their nails.
Additionally, there are natural remedies that can help deter babies from scratching. For example, you can brew a weak solution of chamomile tea, allow it to cool, and then gently dab it onto your baby's face using a clean cloth or cotton pad. Chamomile has soothing properties and may help alleviate itchiness, reducing the urge to scratch.
If your baby has already scratched themselves and you notice bleeding, don't panic. Gently hold a piece of clean, damp cotton wool to their fingertip and apply a little pressure until the bleeding stops. You can also give your baby a warm bath and pat the scratched area dry afterward. If needed, you can apply a gentle natural eczema cream or lotion to the affected area.
It is important to remember that it is normal for babies to scratch themselves, especially when they are learning to control their movements. Most babies stop scratching their faces by the time they are between 4 and 6 months old. However, if you are concerned about your baby's scratching, you can always consult your paediatrician or healthcare provider for more personalised advice.
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How to prevent scratching
Keeping your newborn's nails short and well-maintained is essential to prevent them from scratching themselves or you during feeding time. Here are some tips to prevent scratching:
Trim their nails regularly
Newborns' nails are soft and can be gently peeled off with your fingers. However, as they grow, their nails harden and require more frequent trimming. Aim to trim their fingernails at least once a week and their toenails a few times a month. You can use baby nail scissors with rounded tips or baby clippers. Some parents also use an emery board to file down the nails, but this may not be sufficient if the nails are long and sharp.
Be mindful of nail edges
When trimming your baby's nails, ensure that the edges are rounded instead of jagged. Jagged edges may still be sharp enough to cause scratches.
Take advantage of naptime
Trimming your baby's nails while they are sleeping can be easier as they are less likely to wriggle or fidget. Keep a clipper in your diaper bag so you can take advantage of naptimes or car rides to trim their nails.
Get help
Trimming a baby's nails can be daunting, especially when they are fidgety. Ask someone to help by holding the baby's hands still and distracting them with a song while you clip.
Use mittens or socks
As a temporary measure, you can put mittens or socks on your baby's hands to prevent scratches. However, some babies may not keep these on, and prolonged use may hinder their exploration and sense of touch.
Remember, trimming your baby's nails is important for their safety and yours, especially during breastfeeding. Always be gentle and cautious to avoid any accidental nicks, and don't panic if you draw blood—simply apply pressure with a sterile gauze pad to stop the bleeding.
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Frequently asked questions
Your newborn's nails should be trimmed at least once a week. Toenails can be cut less often, only a few times a month. In the first three weeks of life, you may need to cut their nails every two to three days until they harden and their growth slows.
You can use baby nail scissors, which have rounded tips for safety, or baby clippers. Many baby nail-care kits also come with nail files or emery boards. If you are worried about using scissors or clippers, you can use an emery board to file down your newborn's nails instead.
If you accidentally draw blood, you should use a sterile gauze pad to gently apply pressure to the cut until the bleeding stops. Do not put a bandage on the cut as it could come loose and pose a choking hazard.
