For whatever reason nailcare is something that really stressed me out when my girls were little— but don’t let it! Just remember, even if you do cut your baby’s finger it will stink, but he/she will be ok… I promise :). Whatever you do— do not bite your babies nails. This can tear their nails, and lead to infection. It may seem like the easy way out, but it is really not a great idea. Here are a few things that made nail care easier for me:
For the first few months I used this nailfile. I know what you are thinking. $10 for a stupid nail file—are you kidding me?! Yes, its pricey, but its not like other nail files. It is made out of glass and works so much better on those teeny tiny little newborn nails. Skip the clipping in the first few months, and instead just file babies nails while he/she is laying down. Even better if you can do it while they are sleeping.
When your baby has better head control (and bigger fingers), you can start clipping their nails. I like this clipper becuase its easy to use and has a light. The light helps me see what I am doing, but I also find it keeps the baby engaged, which makes it is easier to clip their nails. Sit your baby on your lap facing away from you, hold their finger in one hand and clip their nails with the other. If you need to hold their other arm down, simply put your arm over their shoulder to keep the hand you are not clipping out of the way.
Rachel is a mama to two beautiful identical twin girls, Izzy and Maddy, and lives in Atlanta with her husband, girls, and cute little pup. Rachel graduated with honors from New York University earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and the Founders’ Day Scholar Award. She also received her Masters of Science in Nursing degree from New York University. Rachel has spent the majority of her career as a pediatric nurse and currently works in pediatric oncology.
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