Newborn Care 101: Real Advice for Those First Few Weeks

Caring for a newborn is a full-time job—and one that comes with plenty of questions, emotions, and curveballs. Between round-the-clock feeding, disrupted sleep, and post-birth recovery, it’s no wonder so many new mums feel overwhelmed in those early weeks.

But here’s the truth: you’re not doing it wrong. You’re just adjusting. And you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Here’s our expert-backed guide to newborn care—written with real mums in mind. These aren’t one-size-fits-all rules. They’re gentle, evidence-based tips to help you feel a little more confident and supported as you get to know your baby (and yourself).

Feeding: Tune In to Your Baby’s Cues

Feeding your newborn—whether by breast, bottle, or both—takes time to find your rhythm. In the early days, babies usually feed 8–12 times across a 24-hour period (roughly every 2–3 hours). But it’s less about watching the clock and more about watching your baby.

Signs of hunger include:

• Sucking on their hands or rooting

• Becoming more alert or fussy

• Making soft sucking noises

Signs they’ve had enough:

• Turning away from the breast or bottle

• Slowing their sucking

• Falling asleep at the end of a feed

A baby bottle ready for a feeding session

If you’re struggling with latch, supply, bottle refusal, or any feeding challenges—it’s okay to seek help early. Our Lactation Consultant Appointments offer practical, compassionate support online, so you don’t have to leave home to get help.

Sleep: Safe, Fragmented, and Normal

Newborn sleep is unpredictable, and that’s completely normal. Most babies will sleep 14–17 hours in a 24-hour period—but usually in short bursts, not long stretches.

The most important thing early on is safe sleep:

• Always place baby on their back

• Use a firm, flat sleep surface (like a cot or bassinet)

• Keep the sleep space clear (no pillows, blankets, toys, or bumpers)

Exhausted and need help managing your own sleep and recovery? Our Postpartum Health Checks can provide personalised strategies tailored to your unique situation.

A cozy crib setup for a newborn in a nursery

What is the 5 5 5 Rule for Newborns?

This simple framework can help you feel more grounded in those early, hazy days. Think of it as a gentle rhythm—not a strict routine.

• 5 feeds: Aim for 5–8 full feeds during daylight hours (more if baby cues overnight)

• 5 hours awake: Newborns are only awake 45–90 minutes at a time. In total, you might see 4–5 wake windows per day.

• 5+ nappy changes: Expect 6–10 wet or dirty nappies per day in the early weeks.

Need more support understanding your baby’s rhythm or tracking what’s normal? Book a Postpartum Health Check with our Endorsed Midwife to talk it through with our team.

Routine: Gentle Structure, Not Strict Schedules

In the fourth trimester, structure should serve you, not stress you out. A simple cycle of feed → awake time → sleep can help create some predictability without pressure.

Ideas for awake time:

• Skin-to-skin cuddles

• Talking or singing softly

• Tummy time (on your chest counts!)

• Going for a walk in the pram or carrier

Bathing every 2–3 days is enough in the early weeks. Keep it brief and soothing, using lukewarm water and gentle products.

A nurturing space filled with baby essentials for daily care

Healthcare: Prioritise Check-Ins for Baby and You

Your baby’s first check-ups are more than just growth charts. They’re a chance to ask questions, track development, and catch concerns early.

But don’t forget you matter, too.

If you're feeling physically depleted, mentally flat, or unsure if your recovery is on track—book a Postpartum Health Check with our Endorsed Midwife. We also offer online appointments with experienced naturopaths, nutritionists, and perinatal psychologists to support your whole-body recovery.

Emotional Support: You Weren’t Meant to Do This Alone

Caring for a newborn can feel lonely at times, especially in a world that doesn’t always prioritise mums. You don’t have to wait until you’re struggling to seek support.

Here’s what can help:

• Talk to trusted friends or family

• Join a local or online mothers group

• Access professional care—even virtually

At Mothers Clinic, we’ve built our Motherhood Mini-Courses to make expert support affordable and accessible. You’ll get lifetime access to a mix of video and downloadable resources, real-food recipes, emotional wellbeing tools, and access to our practitioner team.

Final Thoughts..

Newborn care isn’t about getting it perfect—it’s about staying connected, curious, and kind to yourself. Some days will feel magical. Others will feel like survival. That’s normal.

You’re doing something incredible. And if you ever need a hand navigating feeding, sleep, mental health, or anything in between—we’re here to help.