- Trimming a baby's nails can be nerve-wracking for parents, who fear hurting their baby's small fingers, but it is an essential task to prevent scratching.
- Trim nails while the baby is asleep, as they will be less active and prone to flailing.
- The frequency of trimming is typically two to three times per week, depending on how fast the baby's nails grow.
- Parents can use either baby nail trimmers or a file, or both. It is not recommended to bite the baby's nails, as this can transfer bacteria and cause infection.
- With practice, the process will get easier over time.
Trimming Your Newborn’s Nails
Trimming your baby's nails two to three times a week while they are asleep can help prevent scratching, and using baby-safe tools instead of your teeth reduces the risk of infection.
Zoe Frolking, MD, MSPH, Pediatrics
