The first month with your baby is magical—but let’s be real, it’s also exhausting! Everything is new: the smells, the sounds, the tiny squeaks your baby makes. While your newborn is learning about the world, you’re learning how to care for this little human who depends on you 24/7. Don’t worry—you’ve got this. Here’s what you need to know about sleep, feeding, and bathing in these first few precious weeks.
💤 Newborn Sleep: Short Naps, Long Nights?
Newborns sleep a lot—usually 14 to 17 hours a day—but not all at once. They nap in short bursts, typically 2 to 4 hours at a time, even at night. That’s because their tiny tummies need frequent refueling.
Tips to help your baby (and you) get better rest:
- Follow sleepy cues: Yawning, rubbing eyes, fussiness? Time for a nap.
- Keep the room calm: Dim lights, soft sounds, and white noise can help.
- Try a bedtime routine: A quick diaper change, gentle massage, lullaby—repeat every evening to signal it’s sleep time.
- Lay baby on their back to sleep on a firm mattress (no pillows or loose blankets)—this helps reduce the risk of SIDS.
🍼 Breastfeeding Basics: Frequent and Vital
Breast milk is your baby’s first superfood—rich in antibodies, fat, protein, and everything else a newborn needs to grow.
What to expect:
- Newborns feed 8 to 12 times a day (every 2–3 hours).
- Each feeding can take 20–40 minutes.
- It’s normal for your baby to lose a little weight the first few days and then regain it by week two.
Pro tips:
- Watch for hunger cues: rooting, sucking motions, hand-to-mouth movement.
- Burp after feeding to help avoid spit-ups and gas.
- Stay hydrated and eat well—your nutrition affects your milk.
- If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to get help from a lactation consultant.
🛁 Bathing a Newborn: Keep It Simple
In the first month, your baby doesn’t need daily baths. Two or three times a week is plenty, unless there’s a diaper explosion or spit-up situation.
Until the umbilical cord falls off (usually by week 2):
- Stick to sponge baths using warm water and a soft washcloth.
- Gently clean behind ears, in skin folds, and under the neck.
After the cord falls off:
- You can try a baby tub with 2–3 inches of warm water.
- Use mild, fragrance-free baby soap (or skip soap most days).
- Wrap baby in a towel immediately after and keep them warm.
🧠 Bonus Tips for New Parents
- Skin-to-skin contact isn’t just sweet—it helps regulate baby’s heartbeat and temperature.
- Look out for jaundice: yellowing of the skin or eyes. Call your doctor if you notice it.
- Avoid over-bathing—too much can dry out baby’s skin.
- Track feeding and diapers: 6+ wet diapers a day is a good sign baby is getting enough milk.
- Take care of YOU too—rest, ask for help, and take breaks when you can.
💬 Final Thoughts
This first month is about bonding, observing, and learning. Your baby is adjusting to the outside world, and you’re adjusting to being a parent. There’s no perfect way—just your way. Be gentle with yourself, trust your instincts, and remember: love, touch, and nourishment are the best gifts you can give.
