At birth, babies are not all the same. Some will have longer or shorter nails. Sooner or later, you will need to trim them! Trimming their nails can be a source of anxiety for parents. Discover the tips and tricks to make trimming your baby’s nails less stressful!
When a baby is born, they already have nails. While it is not advisable to touch them during the first month of life, they should be trimmed regularly afterward. Keeping an eye on your baby’s nail length helps prevent them from scratching themselves (or scratching you while breastfeeding). So when is the best time to trim your baby’s nails for the first time? Is it better to use nail clippers, scissors, or a nail file? And how to ensure that you don’t accidentally hurt your child? Here’s everything you need to know.
At what age should you start trimming babies’ nails?
In the beginning, it is not necessary to trim the nails as they are still very flexible. It is recommended to start trimming the nails about 6 weeks after birth. Before that, if necessary, you can gently file them with a rough towel.
Using mittens can protect against unpleasant scratches until it’s time for the first nail trim.
What equipment should you choose when trimming your baby’s nails?
After about twelve weeks, it is time for the first baby manicure and pedicure. Choose between a pair of rounded-tip scissors or baby nail clippers. In either case, make sure they are specifically designed for babies. You can find special nail kits for babies in many baby stores, which often include scissors and clippers. This is also the case for grooming sets.
How should you go about trimming your baby’s nails?
When it comes to the actual trimming, here’s what you need to know:
- For the first few times, choose a pair of rounded-tip scissors specifically designed for babies. Remember to disinfect them each time.
- Postpone the trim if your baby is moving, crying, or agitated, and wait for a moment when they are calmer.
- Hold your baby against you to have the same angle as if you were trimming your own nails, and round off the corners of the nails to prevent them from becoming ingrown.
Do not touch the small skin around the nail.
When is the best time to trim your baby’s nails?
To perform this delicate task under the best conditions and avoid any risk of injury, it is recommended to trim your baby’s nails when they are calm, for example:
- during or after breastfeeding (or bottle-feeding): the baby is satiated, soothed, and relaxed;
- during their nap, while they are dozing off in their car seat or in their bouncer, or when they are sleeping at night: choose a moment during their nap for better visibility.
Have you accidentally injured your baby during their manicure or pedicure?
Don’t panic, it happens even to the most experienced. Trimming nails is not easy, so don’t feel guilty. Rinse the finger with cold water and apply gentle pressure with a sterile compress until the bleeding stops. Then remove the compress, but avoid applying adhesive tape as it may end up in the baby’s mouth.
Furthermore, it is recommended to always talk to your child during care and grooming routines, explaining the actions being taken. This helps to reassure them and teaches them to remain calm during these hygiene routines.
