Cutting Baby Nails: What Mothers May Not Know

Very Important Points About TrimmingBaby Nails

Cutting children’s and infants’ nails can be challenging. Many parents find it difficult due to the delicate and soft nature of baby nails, but when you know the important tips, you’ll see that it’s not hard at all. In this section of Family Plus.SelMagzWe will guide you on how to trim your baby’s nails.

Why Should You Trim Your Baby’s Nails?

Some parents think that since baby nails are very soft, it’s not important to trim them. While it’s true that their nails are soft, they can still be sharp. Babies have little control over their hands, which means they could scratch their own faces with long nails.

Baby nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed twice a week to prevent dirt and germs from accumulating, especially since babies frequently put their hands in their mouths.

How Often Should We Trim the Baby’s Nails?

Nails usually grow very fast. Whenever you notice that they have grown, it’s best to trim them immediately. The frequency of nail trimming varies among children. Some may need trimming once a week, while others might only require it twice a month.

The Best Time to Trim Your Baby’s Nails

The best time to trim your baby’s nails is while they are sleeping or after feeding when they are relaxed and calm; another good time is just after a bath when the nails are softer.

What Do We Need to Trim Baby Nails?

• Special baby nail clippers
• Tissues
• Cotton swabs

Always use a special baby nail clipper. Some scissors are designed specifically for baby nails. Avoid using any other tools. You can use tissues and cotton swabs to clean dirt from under the nails.

How to Trim Your Child’s Nails?

You can trim your child’s nails by following these steps:

1. First, find a place with enough light. You can sit by a window.
2. Try to ensure that the place you choose has natural sunlight.
3. If you don’t have natural light, you can sit near a lamp or artificial lights.
4. It’s better for the baby to be in a comfortable position.
5. Choose a time when your baby feels most comfortable, usually after feeding when they are relaxed and calm; this will be a good time.
6. Hold your baby in your arms. Make sure their head is secure and not in an awkward position, preventing too much movement.
7. Hold the baby’s fingers in a way that they don’t slip, and ensure that there’s no pressure on their hand.
8. Press down on the area away from the nail to prevent the skin from tearing.
9. Trim the nails according to the shape of the finger.
10. Now, clip their nails. Be careful to maintain the natural curve of the nail.
11. Trim toenails straight across.
12. If you notice sharp edges and cannot manage it with the clippers,you can use achildren’s nail file to smooth the edges and prevent injury to their face. Do the same for toenails as well.

Important Note:

• Doctors recommend using only a file during the first weeks of a baby’s life, when the nails are very soft.
• If you decide to shape the nails while your baby is awake, ask your partner or friend to hold them securely.

What to Do If We Accidentally Hurt Their Hand While Trimming Nails?

If you accidentally cause a scratch while trimming their nails, follow these steps:

1. First, take a cotton swab or tissue to clean away any excess blood.
2. Be careful not to apply too much pressure and allow the blood flow to return to normal; don’t distress them too much.
3. You can use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or disinfectant to clean the wound, or quickly wash their hand with soap andwater.Then take a clean cloth and wipe their hand to remove any extra water, alcohol, or disinfectant.
4. It’s better to leave the wound open and not use a band-aid, as the child might put it in their mouth, which could lead to choking hazards.
5. Doctors do not recommend using liquid bandages for infants and toddlers, as they may suck on it.
6. If there is excessive bleeding or a deep cut, definitely consult a doctor and take care to avoid worsening the situation.
7. Important Tips for Trimming Baby Nails

Use a special nail clipper for children.

1. Make sure to choose an appropriate position for the baby.
2. Never do this in low light.
3. Make sure there are no sharp edges after trimming.
4. If you cannot trim the nails, just use a file that is specifically designed for children’s nails, as adult files can hurt the child’s nails and hands.
5. Never attempt to trim nails when the baby is restless, hungry, or not feeling well.
6. Nail trimming should happen when the baby is at their calmest.
7. Do not use your teeth to trim the baby’s nails, as this can transfer germs from your mouth to any small cuts on the baby’s fingers.
8. Ensure you have enough time and do not rush, as hurrying can prevent accurate trimming and may harm the child.
9. Nail Trimming