CORD CARE 101
Hi mama! With 5 of my own littles & working as a NICU nurse I have had lots of experience with cord care!
Give Sponge Baths - Until the cord falls off, stick to sponge baths instead of submerging your baby in water. This helps keep the area dry and clean. Simply use a washcloth or cotton balls to clean around the cord area, avoiding it getting wet.
>> shop the most gentle wash cloths <<
Keep It Clean and Dry - Avoid getting baby’s cord dirty or wet during diaper changes or sponge baths. If the cord area does happen to get dirty or wet, use clean water and mild soap if the area gets dirty. Let air dry before dressing or swaddling baby again. Avoid using alcohol or any harsh substances unless recommended by your pediatrician.
Fold Diapers Below the Cord - When diapering your baby, fold their diaper below the cord stump to prevent irritation and to keep it dry.
Dress Baby in Loose Clothing - Loose clothing helps with air circulation around the stump, promoting faster drying and healing. We highly recommend our Lou Lou and Company Gowns.
Resist the Urge to Pull - The cord will fall off on its own, usually within 1-2 weeks. Avoid pulling or tugging at it, even if it seems like it’s barely hanging on. During the healing process it’s normal to see a little blood near the stump.
Monitor for Signs of Infection - Look out for redness, swelling, foul odor, or pus around the cord area. These could be signs of infection, and you should contact your pediatrician if you notice any of these symptoms.
Follow Up with Your Pediatrician - Your baby’s regular check-ups will include monitoring the cord stump. Don’t hesitate to ask your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about cord care.
Taking these steps can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort and health during the first few weeks. Cord care might seem overwhelming at first, but with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle it with confidence!
Once baby’s cord has fallen off (yay!) here my favorite bath products that I recommend and love so much for baby’s first bath. I have also included a tutorial on how to give your baby a swaddle bath (one of my favorite newborn mom tips!)
Was this tip helpful to you? Let me know what you learned in the comments!
