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Step 1
Keep the area dry. Until the umbilical cord has fallen off, the baby should only be given a sponge bath. The abdomen should not be submerged in water.
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Step 2
Apply alcohol or nothing at all. Pediatricians vary on the best way to care for the umbilical cord. Some recommend dabbing alcohol on it a few times a day while others say it will heal faster if nothing is applied. If alcohol is used, be sure to keep it away from the baby’s sensitive skin and only apply it to the cord.
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Step 3
Do not pull on the umbilical cord. It is important that the umbilical cord falls off on its own. Never pull or otherwise try to remove the cord on your own.
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Step 4
Fold diaper away from the cord. Be sure to leave the cord exposed and not covered by the newborn’s diaper. Most newborn diapers have a cut out in the diaper so the diaper does not have to be folded.
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Step 5
Continue to care for the area after it falls off. Once it falls off, there may be a little umbilical cord blood or pus. This should clear up in a few days. If it is excessive, be sure to call the pediatrician for follow-up care.
