Newborn Care: The First 30 Days of Life

The first 30 days of a newborn’s life are a critically important period during which the foundations of the child’s health and comfort are established. To ensure the baby’s safety and proper development, parents need to know the basic rules of care. This article takes a detailed look at the key aspects of newborn care in the first four weeks, based on current recommendations and specific guidelines.

Hygiene and Skin Care for the Newborn

The newborn’s skin is very thin and sensitive, so it requires especially gentle care. In the first 30 days, it is particularly important to follow the correct bathing routine and treat the umbilical cord stump properly.

Main Hygiene Procedures

• Bathing 2-3 times a week using baby soap with a neutral pH, such as “Mustela Bébé” or “Johnson’s Baby,” which typically cost between 300 and 600 rubles.
• Treating the umbilical stump with a 0.05% chlorhexidine antiseptic until it fully heals (usually 7-10 days).
• Using soft cotton towels and clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo to avoid irritation.

It is important not to bathe the baby too often to prevent skin dryness. Also, carefully monitor the water temperature — ideally 36–37 °C.

Newborn Feeding in the First Month

Nutrition is the foundation of the baby’s health. In the first 30 days, breastfeeding is preferred, but adapted formulas are used if necessary.

Feeding Recommendations

• Breastfeeding on demand, usually 8-12 feedings per day.
• If formula is used, popular brands include “Nutrilon” and “Nestlé NAN,” with an average price for a 400 g tin around 700–900 rubles.
• The volume per feeding ranges from 60 to 90 ml by the end of the first month.

Doctors recommend not introducing solid foods before 6 months to avoid overloading the digestive system.

Health Monitoring and Prevention

Regular check-ups with a pediatrician help detect any issues early and prevent illnesses. The first scheduled visits usually occur 3-5 days after hospital discharge and then every two weeks.

Important Indicators and Vaccinations

• Monitoring body temperature — normal newborn temperature is 36.5–37.3 °C.
• Weight and height — average birth weight is about 3.2 kg, with a gain of 600–800 g by the end of the first month.
• Vaccinations according to the national schedule, such as hepatitis B and tuberculosis (BCG), are given in the maternity hospital or during the first weeks of life.

Clothing and Baby Comfort

Properly chosen clothing ensures comfort and helps regulate heat exchange. In 2026, experts recommend comfortable bodysuits and leggings made from natural fabrics.

Clothing Selection Criteria

• Material — 100% cotton or blended fabrics with natural fibers.
• Size — loose enough not to restrict movement, roughly from 56 to 62 (height 56-62 cm).
• Ease of use — models with buttons on the front or shoulders for quick changing.

Activity Restrictions and Walks

Until the umbilical stump fully heals (usually 7-10 days), outdoor walks should be avoided. After that, short outings in warm weather are allowed.

Walking Recommendations

• The air temperature for initial walks should be no lower than +15 °C.
• Duration — first walks last 15-20 minutes, gradually increasing over time.
• Clothing should be weather-appropriate and comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

• Bathing 2-3 times a week using gentle products and water temperature of 36-37 °C.
• Breastfeeding on demand — 8-12 times per day or adapted formulas like “Nutrilon” and “Nestlé NAN.”
• Regular monitoring of temperature, weight, and scheduled pediatric check-ups.
• Using natural fabric clothing with convenient fastenings and proper sizing.
• Walks only after the umbilical stump has healed, with temperatures no lower than +15 °C.

Caring for a newborn in the first 30 days is a comprehensive task that requires attention to detail and adherence to proven guidelines. Following the proper hygiene, feeding, scheduling, and medical supervision will lay a strong foundation for the baby’s health and well-being.