Ask The Expert: Grooming Your Baby

Emily Straus, M.D., a board certified pediatrician with more than 10 years experience and attending pediatrician at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City answers your baby-care questions.

What’s the best way to trim my baby’s fingernails without accidentally cutting her?

With the way infants squirm around, accidentally nipping your baby’s tiny fingers, a fear of many parents, is a legitimate worry. That’s why I prefer filing to clipping nails or cutting them with scissors. But don’t just grab any nail file for the job. Opt for an infant nail file, which is shorter, gentler, and easier to maneuver around little hands. They are readily available at pharmacies and baby stores. Once you’ve got the right tool, work slowly and file one nail at a time, taking care to smooth out any jagged edges that could scratch your baby’s skin. It’s often easiest to complete this mini “manicure” while your baby is snoozing in an infant seat.

Should I clean my baby’s ears with a cotton swab?

I don’t recommend it. A lot of people think ear wax is dirty and that it has to be removed but that’s not true. In fact, wax can actually help keep dirt out of the ears. If you notice some wax on your baby’s earlobe, though, it’s fine to wipe it off with your finger or a soft cloth.

My 4-month-old daughter has a lot of hair! Is it okay if I trim it at home?

Skip the snipping! A four-month-old baby’s moves are unpredictable, and even a sleeping infant can jump or startle easily. For that reason, I wouldn’t approach a baby with a pair of scissors. Also, keep in mind that a baby that young may have limited head control so she may not be able to sit still enough to safely get her hair trimmed. Your best bet is to hold off on haircuts until your little one can sit up unassisted and hold her head more steady—usually around 9 to 12 months old. In the meantime, tame your baby’s ‘do with a cute little hair clip or baby headband. Either is fine to use when your baby is awake, alert, and supervised.