10 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Caring for Newborns (and How to Avoid Them)

A New Journey Full of Challenges

Welcoming a newborn is a life-changing moment. Along with joy and love come sleepless nights, endless questions, and the constant worry: “Am I doing this right?”

The truth is simple: every parent, especially first-time parents, makes mistakes. And that’s okay. Parenting is a journey of learning. What matters most is recognizing these mistakes early and adjusting with patience and care.

This article highlights 10 common mistakes parents often make when caring for newborns—and offers practical, gentle solutions. The goal is not to criticize but to reassure: mistakes are part of the process, and each one brings you closer to becoming a more confident parent.

Mistake 1: Putting Babies to Sleep on Their Stomach

Some parents believe babies sleep better on their stomach. In reality, this increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest sleep position is on the back, on a firm mattress without pillows, blankets, or stuffed toys.

👉 Solution: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. During supervised playtime, tummy time is encouraged to help strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles.

Mistake 2: Bathing Too Often

Newborn skin is very delicate. Daily baths can strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and irritated. In most cases, 2–3 baths per week are enough, unless the baby is visibly dirty.

👉 Solution: Clean the face, neck, hands, and diaper area daily with a soft cloth. Give full baths only a few times a week using lukewarm water and fragrance-free baby cleanser.

Mistake 3: Over-Bundling

Many parents worry their baby will be cold and wrap them in multiple layers. Overheating, however, can cause sweating, heat rash, dehydration, and even increase SIDS risk.

👉 Solution: Dress your baby in just one more layer than you’re wearing. Keep the room temperature between 20–22°C (68–72°F).

Mistake 4: Giving Honey or Water Before 6 Months

Well-meaning relatives may suggest giving honey or plain water to newborns. Both can be dangerous:

• Honey may contain Clostridium botulinum, leading to infant botulism.

• Water can dilute nutrients in milk and cause water intoxication.

👉 Solution: For the first 6 months, babies should only have breast milk or formula. Nothing else is necessary.

Mistake 5: Shaking the Baby When Crying

Out of exhaustion, some parents shake their baby too strongly while trying to soothe them. This can cause serious brain damage, known as Shaken Baby Syndrome.

👉 Solution: If your baby won’t stop crying, put them safely in a crib, take a few deep breaths, and ask for support if possible. Comfort gently with soft rocking, patting, or humming.

Mistake 6: Trusting Unverified Folk Remedies

Traditional remedies may sound helpful—like rubbing turmeric on the umbilical cord, blowing herbs into the nose, or using hot coals to “warm” the baby. In fact, these can cause infections, burns, or poisoning.

👉 Solution: Only follow practices recommended by pediatricians or trusted medical organizations.

Mistake 7: Starting Solid Foods Too Early

Feeding rice water or porridge at 2–3 months is still common in some cultures. This can cause allergies, digestive issues, or malnutrition.

👉 Solution: Introduce solid foods only around 6 months, starting with soft, pureed foods.

Mistake 8: Using Strong Fragrances or Harsh Products

Baby skin is sensitive. Perfumed lotions, detergents, or harsh cleansers can trigger rashes, allergies, or breathing issues.

👉 Solution: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products designed specifically for newborns.

Mistake 9: Not Washing Hands Before Handling the Baby

Adults often forget to wash hands after being outside or using a phone. Germs transfer easily to newborns whose immune systems are still weak.

👉 Solution: Always wash hands thoroughly before touching your baby. Encourage visitors to do the same.

Mistake 10: Excessive Worry and Comparison

Parents often stress when their baby sleeps less, eats less, or develops skills later than others. But every child follows their own pace. Comparisons only add pressure.

👉 Solution: Track milestones using general health guidelines (WHO, AAP), but remember that variations are normal. Consult a doctor if truly concerned.

Mistakes are part of parenthood. What matters is learning, adjusting, and caring with love.

👉 Remember: no parent is perfect. Your baby doesn’t need perfection—they need your patience, safety, and unconditional love.

By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on gentle, evidence-based care, you’ll build not only your baby’s health but also your own confidence as a parent.

KimiParents – walking with you through every step of your parenting journey.