How to Care for the Umbilical Cord Stump
 Category | Hygiene |
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Medically reviewed by pediatrician and perinatal psychologist Polina Kizino
The umbilical stump heals on its own — gentle care is key. Wash with soap and water, dry with a gauze pad, and don’t use antiseptics unless prescribed. You can bathe your baby from day one. Diapers should sit below the stump. Red flags: redness, pus, odor, or bleeding — talk to a doctor.
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What’s Inside
Quick takeaways
- Healing time: 5–15 days. The stump dries and falls off, forming the belly button.
- Key rules: Keep clean and dry. Wash with water/soap, pat dry with gauze. Avoid antiseptics unless prescribed. Position diapers below the stump.
- Bathing: Allowed from day one. Dry the area thoroughly after.
- Red flags: Redness, swelling, pus, odor, bleeding — consult a doctor.
- Do not: Pull off the stump, cover with bandages, or apply pressure.
The Umbilical Cord Stump: Natural Healing
The stump is the remnant of the umbilical cord. It dries and falls off naturally between days 5–15. Afterward, the wound forms the belly button. Don’t worry if it takes longer — every baby is unique.
Care Instructions
- Keep clean and dry:
- Inspect after diaper changes.
- Clean gently with water and liquid soap.
- Dry with sterile gauze (no rubbing).
- Avoid over-sterilization: Skip antiseptics (e.g., chlorhexidine) unless prescribed.
- Use breathable diapers: Fold diapers below the stump or choose ones with a belly button cutout.
- No tight clothing/swaddling: Prevent friction or irritation.
Bathing Tips
Bathe your baby as usual. After bathing:
- Gently pat the stump dry with a soft towel or cotton swab.
- Avoid covering it with clothing until fully dry.
When to See a Doctor
Normal healing
- Pink skin around the stump
- Small clear/yellowish discharge
- No odor
Warning signs
- Redness/swelling around the stump
- Pus or foul smell
- Bleeding (more than a few drops)
Avoid colored antiseptics (e.g., iodine) — they can mask symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions About Umbilical Cord Care
How long does the umbilical cord stump take to heal?
Usually, the umbilical cord stump dries and falls off between days 5 and 15 of life, and the area continues drying for a few more days. Timing can vary from baby to baby and is not always a reason to worry. Do not pull the stump off, cover it with bandages, or press on it.
How should I care for the umbilical cord stump?
It is important to keep the belly button area clean and dry. If needed, wash the stump and surrounding skin with water and liquid soap, then gently pat it dry with clean gauze. Use antiseptics only if prescribed by a doctor. Keep the diaper edge below the stump to avoid rubbing and moisture.
Can I bathe my baby before the umbilical stump falls off?
Yes, you can bathe your baby from the first days of life. After bathing, dry the umbilical area thoroughly with a soft towel or cotton swab so excess moisture does not remain. If the area gets dirty, wash it with water and liquid soap and dry it carefully. Do not use antiseptics unless prescribed.
When should I show the umbilical stump to a doctor?
See a pediatrician if there is redness, swelling, pus, a bad smell, or bleeding more than a few drops. You should also seek medical advice if the area looks inflamed or your baby’s condition worries you. Avoid colored antiseptics, because they can hide warning signs of complications.
Sources
- WHO recommendations on maternal and newborn care for a positive postnatal experience, WHO, https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240045989. ISBN: 978 92 4 004598 9. Accessed 2 Apr 2025.
- “Caring for a newborn”, WHO, https://www.who.int/tools/your-life-your-health/life-phase/newborns-and-children-under-5-years/caring-for-newborns. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.
- Stewart D, Benitz W; COMMITTEE ON FETUS AND NEWBORN. Umbilical Cord Care in the Newborn Infant. Pediatrics. 2016 Sep;138(3):e20162149. doi: 10.1542/peds.2016-2149. PMID: 27573092. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27573092/. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.