How to cut your baby's nails
6-minute read
Key facts
- You might not need to cut your baby's nails for the first few months, but when you do, gently trim them with small baby clippers or a gentle file.
- Your baby may scratch themselves if their nails are too long or sharp.
- Hold your baby's hand or foot firmly and gently pull the pad of their finger or toe away from the nail.
- Cut the nail straight across using baby nail clippers or scissors.
- Avoid biting or peeling your baby's nails.
Do I need to cut my baby's nails?
You may not need to cut your baby's nails in the first few months. If needed, you can gently trim with small baby clippers or a file.
Cutting your baby's nails can be tricky because babies move around a lot, but it is important to keep their nails clean and trimmed to help avoid illness and infections.
What can happen if I do not cut my baby's nails?
If your baby's nails are too long, they can lead to problems such as:
- scratches on their face or body (because young babies can't control their arm or leg movements)
- infection from dirt or germs under the nails
- pinworms, which can spread when your baby touches their bottom and then their mouth
- ingrown toenails, which can be painful and swollen
- torn nails or cuticles, which can hurt and become infected
Keeping your baby's nails short and clean helps protect them from these problems.
How do I cut my baby's nails?
To cut your baby's nails, you will need to hold their hand or foot firmly so they do not move. It can help if someone else gently holds your baby while you cut.
You can use baby nail clippers or baby nail scissors with rounded tips. Do not use adult nail clippers. Sometimes you can use an emery board (nail file) to smooth or shape the nail. Your local pharmacy may have ones made especially for babies.
Your baby may not like having their nails cut. Try talking or singing to them, distracting them with a toy or making a game of it. Praise your baby when you have finished.
The best time to cut your baby's nails is when they are asleep, or drowsy and calm. After a bath is a good time, because their nails are softer.
Step-by-step guide
Follow these steps to safely cut your baby's nails:
- Hold your baby in a calm, well-lit space. Try cutting their nails while they are asleep or relaxed.
- Clean your baby's nails by using a soft nailbrush or a damp washcloth to gently clean under their nails and remove dirt.
- Choose the right tool by using baby-safe clippers or a small nail file. For newborns, a nail file or emery board may be enough.
- Firmly hold your baby's hand or foot, then hold each finger or toe in turn as you cut each nail.
- Distract your baby if needed by using a toy, singing a song or letting your baby hold a safe object.
What do healthy nails look like?
Baby nails are soft and grow quickly. Healthy nails should be:
- smooth
- slightly curved
- free from bumps or dents
The skin under the nail (called the nail bed) should look pink, which shows good blood flow. The nails themselves may look clear or slightly white at the tips.
Check your baby's nails regularly for any changes, and speak to your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
How do I keep my baby's nails clean and safe?
It is not a good idea to bite your baby's nails with your teeth, because this can spread germs from your mouth and cause an infection.
Fingernails should be cut straight across and slightly rounded at the edges. Toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
Your baby might have an infection if the skin next to their nail is:
- red
- swollen
- painful
If this happens, you can soak their finger or toe in warm water a few times a day and apply some antiseptic cream to keep the area clean. Put a mitten on your baby's hand so they do not suck off the cream.
If it does not get better, take your baby to their doctor. They may need antibiotics.
What should I do if something goes wrong?
Even with the best care, it is possible to accidentally cut your baby's finger or toe. If it is bleeding, gently press a soft, clean cloth or cotton pad over the cut until it stops bleeding. Do not put on a dressing or plaster, as your baby might suck or swallow it.
When should I see my doctor?
Speak to your doctor if you notice your baby's nails start to look unusual. See your doctor if your baby's nails:
- look yellow, green or very pale
- start lifting off the skin
Look out for infection (if the skin looks red, swollen, or has pus). Take your baby to the doctor if you are worried that the skin may be infected, or if you're not sure. They may need antibiotics.
Resources and support
The Sydney Children's Hospital has a factsheet on Hand Hygiene for Babies and Children.
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby has an article on children's feet.
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby has an article on preparing your home for when your baby arrives.
Speak to a maternal child health nurse
Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: July 2025
