How to Trim a Baby’s Nails

Trimming your baby’s nails may not seem like a big deal before you do it, but it really is a tricky little task, particularly the first few times. Babies' nails are so tiny and their fingers so delicate, and they can be very wiggly and squirmy. New moms cringe at the thought of missing the nail and clipping off some precious baby skin instead. Here’s what to do to trim your baby’s nails with the least trouble.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby nail clippers or baby nail scissors

1. Buy some baby nail clippers or baby nail trimming scissors. Do not use adult nail clippers as they are too big and very sharp.

2. Trim baby’s nails right after she has had a bath, as his nails will be a lot softer and therefore easier to cut.

3. Have your partner, another family member, or a friend occupy and distract the baby while you trim the nails.

4. Distract the baby yourself if no one’s around. Try making funny faces, talking in funny voices, or giving the baby a toy to look at and play with in her free hand.

5. Push down gently on the tips or pads of baby’s fingers to expose more of the nail and get the skin out of the way.

6. Make sure no skin is showing prior to trimming.

7. Cut carefully and gently along the shape of baby’s fingernails.

8. Cut straight across for baby’s toenails to prevent ingrown toenails.

Tips & Warnings

• Try trimming baby’s nails while she’s sleeping. Many moms find this to work very well, because baby is quiet and still. However, take care not to wake her. You may want to try trimming her nails near the end of her nap in case you do wake her.
• Consider filing baby’s nails instead of trimming them. This will take a bit longer, and the baby may get impatient, but it is “safer” and many moms find it much easier than clipping with baby nail clippers.
• Another alternative is to bite your baby’s nails instead of trimming them, although this involves an exchange of germs and could introduce infection. If you want to try biting, clean baby’s fingers thoroughly before and after.
• Don’t panic if you accidentally knick or cut baby’s fingers, even though she will most certainly wail and look at you in shock. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding, and then clean and dry the wound, and apply a bandage. Give your baby a kiss and reassure and comfort her as needed.

[chippewa1970]

on 11/17/2008 Im a new mom and I really found the information on your site both helpful and comforting - keep up the great job!