30 Newborn tips for the first 30 days

The first 30 days with a newborn feel like stepping into a whole new world—a beautiful, messy, sleep-deprived world filled with tiny yawns, milk-drunk smiles, and an overwhelming amount of diapers. You’ll feel everything from pure joy to sheer exhaustion (sometimes within the same hour). And guess what? That’s totally normal.

Before my first baby arrived, I thought I had everything planned out. I had read all the books, prepped the nursery, and watched way too many YouTube videos about swaddling. But nothing could have truly prepared me for the reality of newborn life. So, mama, consider this your personal guide—real, honest, and full of tips I wish I had known in those early days.

1. Embrace the Chaos (Seriously, Just Go with It)

Forget schedules. Forget being on top of things. The first few weeks are about survival. Some days, you’ll feel like you’ve got this. Other days, it’ll feel like your baby is the boss of a tiny, adorable dictatorship. And that’s okay.

2. Accept Help (No, Really, Let People Help You)

If someone offers to fold laundry, hold the baby while you shower, or bring over a home-cooked meal—say YES. There’s no trophy for doing everything yourself, but there is extra sleep if you take that offer.

3. Skin-to-Skin is Pure Magic

Not only does skin-to-skin contact help regulate your baby’s body temperature and heartbeat, but it also soothes them instantly. Plus, those newborn snuggles? They’re some of the best moments you’ll ever have.

4. The First Poop is… an Experience

Welcome to the world of meconium—the thick, sticky, tar-like substance that your baby will pass in the first couple of days. It’s completely normal, but be prepared for diaper changes that require some serious wipes.

5. Feeding Feels Constant Because It Is

Newborns eat every 2-3 hours (sometimes more). Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or combo-feeding, just know that those marathon feeding sessions are temporary. Cluster feeding? Totally normal.

6. Track Feedings & Diapers (Because You Will Be Asked)

Pediatricians love to ask about feedings and diaper output. Keeping a log can help you track patterns and ease your mind that your baby is eating enough.

7. Burping is a Must

Babies swallow air while feeding, and if you don’t burp them, you might be in for a cranky, gassy baby later. Try different burping positions until you find one that works best.

8. Newborn Sleep is a Myth

Yes, they sleep a lot, but it’s in short bursts—usually 2-4 hours at a time. Your new best friends? Coffee and naps (if you can squeeze one in).

9. Swaddling is a Superpower

Babies love feeling snug, and swaddling mimics the coziness of the womb. Just make sure their hips have room to move to prevent hip dysplasia.

10. Safe Sleep is a Must

Always place your baby on their back in a crib or bassinet with a firm mattress—no loose blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals. A sleep sack can help keep them warm.

11. You Will Change SO MANY Diapers

8-12 a day, in fact. Have a diaper caddy stocked and ready in multiple rooms, and invest in a solid diaper cream to prevent rashes.

12. Prevent Diaper Rash Like a Pro

Frequent diaper changes, fragrance-free wipes, and a good barrier cream will save you from dealing with an unhappy, red-bottomed baby.

13. Baby Doesn’t Need a Daily Bath

Newborns don’t get that dirty. A bath 2-3 times a week is plenty. Until the umbilical cord falls off, stick to sponge baths.

14. That Umbilical Cord Stump is Temporary

It’ll dry up and fall off in the first two weeks. Keep it dry and avoid pulling on it (even if it looks like it’s hanging by a thread).

15. Babies Cry—a Lot

Crying is how they communicate. If they’re fed, changed, and still upset, try the magic combo: rocking, swaying, white noise, and a pacifier.

16. White Noise is a Game-Changer

A white noise machine mimics the womb and helps babies sleep longer. Also, it drowns out household noise so you don’t have to tiptoe around.

17. Growth Spurts Will Happen (and They Will Eat Nonstop)

Around weeks 1, 3, and 6, babies go through growth spurts and may want to eat around the clock. It’s exhausting, but totally normal.

18. Baby Skin is Weird (But It’s Normal)

Peeling skin, baby acne, or a little jaundice are common. Most clear up on their own, but always check with your pediatrician if anything looks concerning.

19. Bonding Takes Time (And That’s Okay)

Not every mom feels an instant connection. If you don’t, don’t worry. It’ll come as you spend more time together.

20. Postpartum Emotions Are Wild

One minute you’re crying over a diaper commercial, the next you’re overwhelmed with love. Hormones are no joke. If you’re struggling, reach out for support.

21. It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed

Motherhood is hard. Take deep breaths, step away when you need to, and remind yourself that you’re doing an amazing job.

22. Your Baby Knows You

Your voice, your scent, your touch—it’s all familiar and comforting. Talk, sing, and cuddle them as much as possible.

23. Every Baby is Different

What worked for your friend’s baby might not work for yours. Trust your instincts and don’t stress about comparisons.

24. Pacifiers Can Be a Lifesaver

Some babies love them, others don’t. If it helps soothe your little one, go for it.

25. Babywearing = Hands-Free Cuddles

A good baby carrier can be a total lifesaver when you need to get things done while keeping baby close.

26. Breastfeeding is Hard (And That’s Okay)

If you’re struggling, see a lactation consultant. If it doesn’t work out, that’s okay too—fed is best.

27. There’s No Shame in Formula Feeding

A fed baby is a happy baby. Do what works best for your family.

28. Trust Your Instincts

You know your baby best. If something doesn’t feel right, advocate for them and yourself.

29. Take More Photos Than You Think You Need

They’ll never be this tiny again. Even in the chaos, capture the moments.

30. Enjoy the Snuggles—They Won’t Last Forever

This stage is exhausting, but it’s also fleeting. Soak in every sleepy cuddle, every tiny stretch, and every little yawn.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This, Mama

The newborn stage is a whirlwind, but you will get through it. One day, you’ll look back and realize just how far you’ve come. Until then, take it one day (or one diaper change) at a time. ❤️