- Diapers are a job you can fully own, starting day one.
- Sponge baths only until the umbilical cord stump falls off, usually within 1 to 3 weeks.
- Crying usually peaks around 6 weeks and eases by 3 to 4 months. It's not your fault, and you can't always fix it.
What's in the diaper
- Days 1 to 2: thick, sticky, black-green poop (meconium). Totally normal.
- Days 3 to 4: turning greenish-brown as feeding picks up.
- By day 5: yellow and seedy for breastfed babies; tan to yellow and a bit firmer with formula.
- Count the wet ones. By day 5 or so, at least 6 wet diapers a day is a good sign.
Changing like a pro
- Everything within reach before you start. Never leave baby alone on a changing table, not even for a second.
- For girls, wipe front to back.
- Fold the diaper below the cord stump so it can air out.
- Point boys down before you close the diaper. You'll learn why.
Bath time
Until the cord stump falls off, a sponge bath is all baby needs: a warm room, a warm washcloth, and one body part uncovered at a time. Two or three baths a week is plenty for a newborn. Test water with your wrist or elbow; it should feel warm, not hot. Keep a hand on baby the entire time.
When the crying won't stop
Run the checklist: hungry, wet, too hot or cold, needs a burp, tired. Then try the calming tricks many babies love:
- A snug swaddle (loose at the hips).
- Holding baby on their side or tummy against you while awake (but always on the back to sleep).
- Loud shushing or white noise.
- Gentle, rhythmic motion: swaying, bouncing, walking.
- Something to suck on, like a clean finger or pacifier if you're using one.
If you're losing it
It's okay to put baby in the crib on their back, close the door, and breathe for five minutes. Call or text someone. Then go back. Never shake a baby. If the crying seems different (high-pitched, with a fever, or baby won't feed), call the doctor.