Health Tips

Newborns can scratch themselves with their tiny — but very sharp — nails. Prevent these mishaps by trimming your baby's nails. You can get the job done in three easy steps.

Your baby's nails are soft — but their ability to scratch may surprise you. If wielding a scissors or other sharp object anywhere near your baby runs counter to your parental instincts, don't worry. With the right tools and a little practice, you can trim your baby's nails quickly and safely.

What you need

Nail clippers or manicure scissors designed for infants are best. The tips are rounded for safety. Look for these products where you buy other baby supplies.

Resist the temptation to trim your baby's fingernails with your teeth. The nails may tear easily, but not evenly. And the germs in your mouth may cause an infection if there's a break in your baby's skin.

What to do

You can get the job done in three easy steps.

• Get a grip. Use one hand to hold your baby's finger or toe. To reduce the likelihood of a pinch or cut, press the skin under the nail down and out of the way.
• Trim the nail. Use the other hand to trim the nail and round off any sharp edges. For fingernails, follow the nail's natural shape. For toenails, trim straight across.
• Check your work. When you've trimmed all the nails, smooth any rough edges with a soft emery board.

At first, your baby's fingernails may grow more quickly — and need more attention — than his or her toenails. But even if your baby's toenails don't need to be trimmed, check them for sharp or rough edges that may get caught on blankets or clothing.

When baby won't hold still

A squirming baby can take the challenge of trimming tiny nails to a new level. It may help to trim your baby's nails after a bath, when the nails are softer. You might ask another person to hold or distract the baby while you trim his or her nails — or simply wait until your baby is asleep.

If you cut too close

If you accidentally cut one of your baby's nails too short or nick a finger or toe, apply gentle pressure with a clean tissue or sterile gauze pad. Once the bleeding stops, there's no need to cover the area with a bandage. It may only pose a choking hazard.