Newborn - Everyday care
Cord Care and Bathing a Baby
How to care for the umbilical cord stump, when it falls off, sponge baths, how often to bathe a baby, and signs of infection to call about.
Ask Cradle about thisTLDRThe short version, if you only have a minute
- Keep the cord stump clean and dry; it falls off on its own in 1-3 weeks. No alcohol needed.
- Sponge baths until it falls off. After that, about 3 baths a week is plenty in the first year.
- Use about 2 inches of warm (not hot) water, keep the water heater at 120°F (49°C) or lower, and never leave the baby alone in the bath.
The cord stump
- It dries and falls off on its own, usually in 1-3 weeks. Ask the doctor if it's still there after that.
- Keep it clean and dry; fold the diaper below it. No alcohol is needed; use plain water if it gets dirty, then pat dry.
- A few drops of blood when it comes off is normal. A pink, moist bump left behind (umbilical granuloma) is worth mentioning at a checkup.
- Call if the skin around it is red and spreading, it oozes pus, smells bad or keeps bleeding.
Baths
- Sponge baths only until the stump falls off.
- Babies don't need daily baths; about 3 a week is plenty in the first year. Too many dry the skin.
- About 2 inches of water that feels warm, not hot, on your wrist or elbow. Set the water heater to 120°F (49°C) or lower.
- Never leave a baby alone in or near water, even for a second. Gather everything first.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser; pat dry and check skin folds.
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Grounded in: AAP HealthyChildren ("Bathing Your Newborn", "Umbilical Cord Care"). General information.
General information, not medical advice. If something feels wrong, trust that and call your pediatrician or provider. See Sources.
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