New Parent Guide: 14 Common Newborn Mistakes

Baby Care, Mother & Baby Care

Bringing your newborn home is a whirlwind of joy, love, and… a thousand questions. With advice coming from every corner and the exhaustion setting in, it’s completely normal to worry if you’re doing everything right. At HitGlow, we understand this. That’s why we’ve created this gentle, no-judgment guide to help you navigate the most common (and easily avoidable) newborn care mistakes.

Here’s how to care for your baby with confidence and calm on your parenting journey.

1. Believing Babies Should Sleep on Their Tummy

This is the most dangerous myth in newborn care. The only safe sleep position for a baby is on their back. This “Back to Sleep” practice dramatically reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Your baby’s crib should have a firm mattress and a fitted sheet, with no pillows, loose blankets, or stuffed toys.

2. Letting Anyone Kiss Your Newborn’s Face

A newborn’s immune system is still developing, making them extremely vulnerable to germs. A simple kiss can transmit dangerous viruses like RSV or herpes. Be polite but firm: ask all visitors to wash their hands thoroughly and to avoid kissing the baby, especially on the face and hands which often end up in their mouth.

3. Waiting Too Long for Diaper Changes

Prolonged exposure to a wet or soiled diaper is the primary cause of painful diaper rash. Change your baby’s diaper frequently—about every 2-3 hours, or as soon as you notice it’s wet. Clean the area with gentle, fragrance-free wipes or water and let the skin air dry completely before putting on a new diaper.

4. Overdressing a Sleeping Baby

It’s a common fear that your baby will get cold, but overheating is also a risk. A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more light layer than you are comfortably wearing. Use breathable fabrics like cotton and check for signs of overheating, such as a sweaty neck or flushed cheeks.

5. Thinking a Crying Baby is a “Bad” Baby

Crying is a newborn’s only form of communication—it is never a form of manipulation. It’s how they signal hunger, discomfort, loneliness, or tiredness. Responding to their cries with comfort and care builds a foundation of trust and emotional security.

6. Punishing or Yelling at a Newborn

A newborn cannot be “disciplined” or spoiled by attention. They are not capable of understanding punishment. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or frustrated by crying, it is okay to place your baby safely in their crib, step away for a few minutes, and take some deep breaths to calm yourself down.

7. Giving Cow’s Milk or Water Too Early

For the first six months, your baby gets all the hydration and nutrition they need from breast milk or formula. Giving water can interfere with their appetite and nutrient absorption. Cow’s milk is difficult for a baby under one year to digest and lacks the proper balance of nutrients they need to thrive.

8. Bathing the Baby Too Often

Newborns don’t need a full bath every day. Frequent bathing can strip their delicate skin of its natural protective oils, leading to dryness and irritation. A full bath 2-3 times per week is plenty. On other days, simply “top and tail”—gently wash their face, neck, hands, and diaper area with a soft, damp cloth.

9. Ignoring a Newborn’s Oral Hygiene

Good oral care starts even before the first tooth appears. After feedings, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp, soft cloth. This removes milk residue, prevents bacteria buildup, and gets your baby accustomed to having their mouth cleaned, which will make toothbrushing easier later on.

10. Panicking Over Baby Eczema or “Milk Spots”

Many babies develop temporary skin conditions. Baby acne (“milk spots”) and mild eczema (patches of red, dry skin) are very common. Do not pick at the spots. Keep the skin clean and dry, and use gentle, unscented products. If the rash seems severe, painful, or isn’t improving, consult your pediatrician for advice.

11. Comparing Your Baby’s Growth to Others

Every baby develops at their own unique pace. Comparing milestones only creates unnecessary anxiety. Focus on your baby’s health and happiness, not the charts.

12. Using Harsh or Scented Products on Baby’s Skin

A newborn’s skin is incredibly delicate and permeable. Products with fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals can easily cause irritation, dryness, or allergic reactions. Always choose products that are specifically formulated for babies and are labeled “fragrance-free,” “hypoallergenic,” and “dye-free.

13. Not Preventing or Improperly Treating Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is a common but preventable issue caused by prolonged exposure to moisture. To prevent it, change diapers frequently, clean the area thoroughly with gentle wipes or water at each change, and—most importantly—let the skin air dry completely before applying a barrier cream and putting on a new diaper. A thick layer of zinc oxide cream creates an excellent protective barrier.

14. Using the Wrong Oils for Baby Massage

While baby massage is wonderful for bonding, not all oils are safe. Heavy, scented oils or traditional oils like mustard or olive oil can be too harsh, block pores, or cause allergic reactions. Instead, opt for a small amount of an edible, cold-pressed oil like coconut or sunflower oil, and always perform a small patch test on the baby’s skin first.

Final Thoughts

The newborn phase is a journey of learning, patience, and incredible love—not a test for perfection. Trust your instincts, stay informed with reliable sources, and remember: a happy, healthy baby begins with a calm and confident parent. You’re already doing an amazing job.