Finally, the moment has arrived — you can bring your baby home! While many people say that newborns simply cry, eat, sleep, and need diaper changes, the truth is that those first hours can feel overwhelming for new parents.
Your baby will also do many small things that might make you wonder whether everything is normal. It’s common for new parents to worry and feel tempted to call their pediatrician for every little question.
Don’t worry — we have you covered.
In this guide we will walk you through the first 24 hours after bringing your newborn home and explain what is normal and what you can expect during this exciting transition.
Bringing your baby home for the first time is truly a life-changing experience. It may take a few days to adapt to your new routine, and that’s completely normal. Try not to put pressure on yourself to be perfect.
Your hormones are still adjusting after birth, your body is recovering, and sleep deprivation is common during these early days. Because of this, it’s natural to experience a wide range of emotions.
New parents — especially mothers — may laugh, cry, feel excited, or frustrated within the same hour. These emotional shifts are very common in the postpartum period.
Many mothers experience the temporary condition known as the “baby blues.” However, a more serious condition called postpartum depression can also occur and should not be ignored. If you would like to learn more about this topic, read our article: The Ups and Downs of Motherhood .
Feeding Your Newborn
Newborn babies have very small stomachs and can usually drink only 1–3 ounces of breast milk or formula per feeding.
Because of this, babies usually need to eat every 2–3 hours, and sometimes even more frequently.
Signs that your baby may be hungry include:
- Crying
- Sucking on hands
- Licking lips
- Rooting for the breast or bottle
If you choose to bottle feed from the beginning, it is important to select a formula designed for newborns, such as:
Lebenswert Stage 1 or Holle Pre .
Crying
Crying is a normal part of newborn communication. Babies cry when they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or need a diaper change.
Newborns typically do not cry excessively during the first few days. However, as they grow, crying may increase.
On average, babies may cry around two hours per day. The good news is that crying usually decreases by the time babies reach 6–8 weeks of age.
Sleeping
Newborns sleep frequently but usually only for short periods at a time because they wake often to eat.
Most newborns sleep around 16–18 hours per day, spread across several naps rather than long stretches.
Whenever possible, try to rest when your baby sleeps. This simple habit can make the first weeks much easier.
Babies often prefer small, cozy sleeping environments such as baby carriers or swaddles because they mimic the feeling of the womb.
Breathing
Newborn breathing patterns can sometimes sound unusual and may worry parents.
It is normal for babies to breathe quickly, pause briefly, and then continue breathing again. This pattern is called periodic breathing.
However, you should contact your pediatrician immediately if your baby shows signs such as:
- Nostril flaring
- Constant rapid breathing
- Grunting sounds
- Chest wheezing
- Breathing pauses longer than 10 seconds
Bath Time
While your baby still has the umbilical cord stump, it is recommended to avoid fully immersing them in water.
Instead, use a warm damp washcloth for gentle sponge baths during the first days.
Some newborns may develop mild skin dryness or small rashes. Natural remedies such as coconut oil may help soothe the skin.
You can learn more about natural baby skincare here: 10 Great Uses of Coconut Oil for Babies .
Diaper Changes
There is no exact number of diaper changes for every baby, but there are general guidelines during the first days of life.
According to pediatrician Dr. Dori Anchin from Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, newborn diaper patterns often follow this rule:
- Day 1: at least 1 wet diaper
- Day 2: at least 2 wet diapers
- Day 3: at least 3 wet diapers
- Day 4: at least 4 wet diapers
- After day 4: typically 5–6 wet diapers or more daily
Because newborn bladders are small, frequent diaper changes are completely normal.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Taking care of a newborn can feel overwhelming, especially during the first days. Asking for help from family, friends, or healthcare professionals can make the transition easier.
Most importantly, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Enjoy these first precious moments with your baby.
This article is part of our “New Moms Survival Guide” series. You can read the first part here: New Moms Survival Guide .