Reviewed by The Mom Store editorial team, October 2026. See our editorial policy.
Newborn care in the first weeks comes down to a few things done over and over: feeding often, putting your baby down to sleep safely, keeping them clean and comfortable, and knowing the signs that mean you should get help quickly. This guide covers each one, with links to the health guidance behind it. Family members will offer plenty of advice, much of it kind and some of it outdated, so it helps to know what current guidance actually says.
Feeding
Newborns feed little and often. The NHS guide to breastfeeding in the first few days says feeds may come every one to three hours at first, and that babies feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours in the first few weeks, including at night.
Feed when you see early hunger cues rather than waiting for crying. The NHS lists getting restless, sucking a fist or fingers, making murmuring sounds and turning the head with an open mouth, called rooting. Skin to skin contact after birth helps keep your baby warm and calm and is a good time for the first feed.
In the first days your breasts make colostrum, which the NHS describes as very concentrated, so your baby needs only about a teaspoon at each feed. Your breasts usually feel fuller around two to four days after birth as more milk arrives. If you are using formula or expressed milk, ask your midwife or doctor to show you how to prepare and sterilise bottles.
For more detail, including how to tell your baby is getting enough, see our breastfeeding questions and answers.
Safe sleep
The American Academy of Pediatrics parent guide to safe sleep sets out a few rules that apply to every nap and every night:
- Place your baby on their back to sleep.
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface with only a fitted sheet. Keep pillows, bumpers, soft toys and loose blankets out of the sleep space.
- Share a room, not a bed, with your baby for at least the first six months.
- Do not rely on home or wearable monitors to prevent SIDS. The AAP says there is no evidence they do, and they should not replace these safe sleep steps.
In many Indian homes a newborn sleeps between parents or on a soft mattress with pillows on either side. Current guidance is clear that a separate, firm, flat space next to your bed is safer. Dress your baby in light layers for the room temperature rather than piling on blankets.
Bathing and cord care
The AAP guide to bathing your newborn recommends sponge baths only until the umbilical cord stump falls off, which usually happens within one to two weeks. After that:
- Use about 2 inches, roughly 5 cm, of warm water, tested with the inside of your wrist or elbow.
- Support the head with one hand and lower your baby in feet first.
- Never leave your baby alone in the bath, even for an instant.
- Three baths a week may be enough in the first year. Bathing more often can dry out the skin.
- Keep the hottest tap water at no more than 120°F, about 49°C, to prevent scalds.
A small, stable baby bather makes it easier to hold your baby securely in a shallow amount of water.
Nappies, clothes and everyday comfort
Change nappies whenever they are wet or dirty. Keep a rough count of wet nappies in the first weeks: the NHS lists no wet nappy for 12 hours as a sign to get help urgently, as covered below.
Dress your baby in soft cotton layers that you can add or remove, and wash new clothes before the first wear. A small stack of vests, sleepsuits, caps and mittens from the infant and newborn collection covers most days, since newborns can need several changes.
Looking after yourself
Rest when your baby sleeps if you can, accept help with cooking and housework, and keep water and a snack near where you feed. If you feel low, anxious or overwhelmed, or have thoughts that frighten you, tell your doctor.
When to get help urgently
The NHS guide to spotting serious illness in a baby says to call emergency services or go to hospital straight away if your baby:
- has difficulty breathing or is breathing very fast
- has blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue, or skin that feels cold and clammy
- has a temperature of 38°C or higher and is under 3 months old, or 39°C or higher at 3 to 6 months
- has a temperature below 36°C, or feels cold to touch
- has a weak, high pitched or continuous cry
- is very difficult to wake or cannot be woken
- has a rash that does not fade when you press it
- has not had a wet nappy in 12 hours
- is having a seizure
The NHS also lists a baby who is not feeding as a reason to get urgent medical advice, and says to get immediate help if your baby is unwell and you think something is seriously wrong. Trust that feeling and call.
This article is general information and does not replace advice from your doctor.
