1 Week Old Baby: Feeding, Care, Sleep & What to Expect

Can you believe it — your babe’s a week old! 😱

Your baby is a week old! After months of excitedly waiting, you have a new arrival, and life is completely unrecognizable from a week ago. But what’s to come over the next few days for your 1 week old baby?

After months of waiting, you have a new arrival, and life is completely unrecognizable from a week ago.

But what’s to come over the next few days for your 1 week old baby?

Well, first off, take a minute to appreciate just how much change you have gone through.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, that’s okay!

This is completely normal for new parents.

Taking it one step at a time will help, as well as stocking up on knowledge about your new babe.

Table of Contents 📝

How to take care of a 1 week old baby

Welcome to the whirlwind of week one!

You’ve brought home this tiny human, and it’s suddenly very real.

Feeling a bit lost? Totally normal!

There’s no magic manual, just plenty of guesswork, and probably lots of caffeine.

Here’s a quick rundown

😴 Sleep (or the lack thereof): Newborns don’t have a night-and-day concept yet, so if you’re questioning your next chance to sleep — yep, that’s week one. Grab naps when you can and remember, whatever time, day or night, there’s a whole team of mamas out there with you on Peanut.

👩‍🍼 The round-the-clock buffet: Feeding is on-demand right now, every 2–3 hours, including night shifts. Cluster feeding might happen, too, where baby seems to snack constantly — it’s their way of settling in.

🧷 Diapers, diapers, and more diapers: Expect 8–12 changes daily! If you feel like a human changing station, you’re right on track. More diapers = well-fed and hydrated baby.

🤗 Skin-to-skin cuddles: Newborns love the close contact, which helps with bonding and regulating their temperature. Breathe it in — it’s one of the best parts of these early days.

🫶 Taking care of yourself, too: You’re recovering, too, so be gentle with yourself. Eat a favourite snack, take a stroll (even to the end of the street), and ask for help when you need it.

🤪 Accept the chaos: This phase is messy, sleepless, and beautifully chaotic. You’re learning the ropes, and your babe’s getting used to the world — take it one day at a time.

1 week old baby not pooping: what to do

Even if your babe doesn’t need to go as frequently, if their poop is soft, then they’re not constipated.

But if they cry when having a bowel movement, or their poop is hard or pebble-like, or they’re only passing gas, they may be constipated.

It’s best to talk to your doctor in this case, as they’ll know best what to give a 1 week old baby for constipation.

Most likely, they’ll recommend a little extra water or fruit juice, as 1 week old baby constipation remedies, but it’s always worth checking with them beforehand.

How long should a 1 week old sleep?

At one week old, your babe will be doing a whole lot of sleeping — we’re talking 14 to 18 hours a day! [3]

Sounds dreamy, right?

But here’s the catch: their sleep is all over the place because they need those frequent snacks, day and night.

They haven’t quite figured out that magical day-night routine (known as the circadian rhythm) yet — that’s something they’ll grow into with time. [4]

For now, it’s all about snoozing and feeding on repeat.

😴 Want to know more about your sleeping beauty? How Much Do Newborns Sleep? Your Rough Guide

Why is my 1 week old baby sleeping so much?

If you’re wondering why your one-week-old is snoozing like it’s their full-time job, rest assured — they’re supposed to!

Growing is hard work, and for babies, that means loads of sleep.

Right now, their tiny bodies and brains are busy adjusting to life outside the womb, and that requires a lot of energy (hence all the naps).

Plus, sleep is when their little systems do all that important growing and developing.

Enjoy the quiet moments; soon enough, they’ll be awake and ready for action.

Can I let my 1 week old sleep through the night?

Sorry to burst your bubble, mama, but at one week old, your baby still needs those frequent feeds, even at night.

Their tiny tummies can’t hold enough to keep them going for long stretches, so they’ll wake up for a snack every few hours to keep their energy up and grow.

If by some miracle they do sleep a little longer here and there, enjoy it — just be ready to gently rouse them if they go over about 3–4 hours.

It’s all part of the early days, but before you know it, they’ll be snoozing longer, and so will you!

What’s the best bedtime for a 1 week old?

Right now, “bedtime” is more of a revolving door than a set hour on the clock.

At 1 week old, babies don’t yet know the difference between night and day, so sleep (and wake) times are pretty unpredictable.

Instead of a set bedtime, focus on keeping things calm in the evening: dim lights, soft voices, and gentle cuddles can help them start to sense nighttime vibes.

Over time, they’ll settle into a rhythm, but for now, just go with the flow — their sleep schedule is as new as they are!

What’s the best position for a 1 week old baby to sleep?

When it comes to the best sleep position for a one-week-old, simplicity is key: flat on their back, on a firm surface.

This is the safest setup for newborn sleep and helps reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). [5]

It might feel natural to want to snuggle them on their side or stomach, but experts recommend sticking to back-sleeping for now.

And while they may look tiny and curled up, babies are designed to sleep this way!

How much should a 1 week old baby eat?

Your baby’s first weeks will involve a lot of growing, so it’s no wonder they need feeding so frequently.

But how much should a 1 week old baby eat?

If your baby is breastfed, they’ll need feeding around 8-12 times a day.

If they’re on formula, they’ll need feeding every 2-3 hours.

As for how much your one week old baby is guzzling?

By one week, they’ll be drinking between 1 and 2 ounces each feed.

🍼 Want to know more about feeding your new babe? Newborn Baby Feeding Schedule: How Often is Enough?

How big is a 1 week old baby stomach?

At one week old, your baby’s stomach is still pretty tiny — about the size of a cherry or walnut. 🍒

Yep, all that fussing for something so little!

This means they can only handle a small amount of milk at a time, which is why they’re always hungry again so soon.

Why is my 1 week old baby always hungry?

It can feel like you’re constantly on call for the next feed, and you’re not wrong.

At this age, babies grow fast and have tiny tummies, so they need regular top-ups to keep up with all that rapid development.

Plus, they’re still figuring out the whole eating thing, so they’re often snacking rather than having a “meal”.

And let’s be real: feeding is also comfort time, warmth, and bonding with you, which are all high on a newborn’s priority list.

What should a 1 week old baby be doing?

Your newborn’s first week is a big one!

Knowing a few key milestones can help you feel more prepared.

Right now, your 1-week-old is busy building up their immune and digestive systems, so expect lots of feeding, sleeping, and skin-to-skin cuddles.

Most babies lose a bit of weight in the first few days (it’s just excess fluids) and typically regain it by 10-14 days, sometimes up to 17 days. [6, 7, 8]

Here’s what else to expect in week one milestones:

• New reflexes: Your baby may appear to startle or look like they are shivering. This is normal! They may also start to develop a reflex smile.
• New movements: Your baby will be moving both arms or legs together. It’ll take them longer to learn to move their limbs individually. Your baby may lift their head briefly while on their tummy, but it’s important to keep your newborn’s head supported.
• New sensory skills: Your baby will be mostly relying on smell and touch, but at one week old, they’ll start to focus their eyes on objects near their face. They may also start to respond to loud noises as their hearing develops.
• New appearance: That fine, downy hair your baby had at birth (called lanugo) will be starting to fall out, and will continue to do so over the next few weeks. Your baby’s first head of hair may go too, to be replaced with completely different locks. If your baby has slightly swollen genitals at one-week old, that’s also completely normal and temporary.

What is normal behavior for a 1 week old baby?

At this stage, a “normal” day can involve lots of sleeping, feeding, and a few wide-eyed stares as they take in their new world (or the blurry bits they can see of it, anyway).

Expect lots of tiny movements — little stretches, yawns, and that adorable startle reflex where they throw their arms up like they’re trying to land a role in an action movie.

They might also have short bursts of fussiness, and it’s all part of adjusting to life outside the womb.

Basically, if they’re eating, pooping, sleeping, and giving you the occasional “what’s going on?” face, you’re right on track.

How active is a 1 week old baby?

At one week old, your baby’s “activity” level is still pretty low-key — more like stirring occasionally with bursts of dramatic yawns.

They’re mostly mastering the art of sleep, with short intervals of being awake.

During those awake spells, you might catch them doing little stretches, wiggling their arms and legs, or looking around with a dazed expression as if they’re trying to make sense of the whole “outside world” concept (same, baby).

When it comes to how alert should a 1 week old baby be, a few minutes here and there is all you’re likely to get before they drift off again.

This level of “activity” is just what they need to grow, so even if it feels like all they do is snooze, they’re right on track for their age!

What to expect at 1 week postpartum

Your baby is your whole world, but remember, you matter too, mama!

While you’re navigating the ins and outs of your 1-week-old, your recovery is just as important.

Bleeding and soreness are totally normal — think of it as post-baby “spring cleaning”.

It’s okay if you still look a bit pregnant; your body is finding its new normal.

Emotionally, you might feel a rollercoaster of joy, exhaustion, and maybe a few tears — that’s just the hormones at play.

Expect some chaos mixed with bliss, and remember, it’s all part of the journey.

Be gentle with yourself, rest when you can, and know you’re doing an amazing job, one day at a time!

❤️ What else can you expect? Your Ultimate Postpartum Recovery Guide

How much should I be bleeding 1 week postpartum?

At this stage, it’s completely normal to still have some bleeding, called lochia, which can be heavy in the first few days and then gradually start to lighten.

You might see red, pink, or even a bit of brown as it changes over time.

Think of it as your body’s way of clearing out and healing, but if you’re soaking a pad in under an hour or notice clots bigger than a golf ball, definitely check in with your doctor. [9]

Otherwise, stock up on those super-absorbent pads and go easy on yourself.

How to increase milk supply 1 week postpartum

If you’re breastfeeding and feel like your milk supply could use a boost, don’t stress — it’s early days, and your body’s still getting into the rhythm of feeding.

Try nursing often (babies can be very persuasive at this part), staying hydrated, and eating balanced meals.

Some mums swear by lactation teas or foods like oats and fenugreek, but the best booster is often just lots of skin-to-skin time and frequent nursing or pumping.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so hang in there!

How much weight do you lose at 1 week postpartum?

The weight you lose at one week postpartum varies, but you’ll likely see an initial drop from the baby, placenta, and fluids — anywhere from 5 to 15 pounds isn’t unusual.

After that, weight loss can slow as your body focuses on healing and producing milk.

So, don’t worry too much about numbers; your body just did an incredible thing, and it deserves all the time it needs to recover.

1 week old baby: your questions

We’ve covered the essentials, but what about everything else?

Some things are so common that pretty much every mama with a 1 week old experiences, while others are a little less common, but all questions are valid.

So here are some questions from the new moms of Peanut, so you feel less alone:

Is the first week with a newborn the hardest?

For many, the first week is the toughest — you’re running on fumes, figuring out a new little human, and everything feels a bit surreal.

The good news?

You’re getting the hang of it, one day at a time, and those hazy days will soon feel a bit more manageable.

Hang in there; you’re doing amazing, and it does get easier!

Why is my 1 week old baby’s skin peeling?

After spending months in a cozy, watery environment, your baby’s skin is just adjusting to the outside world, shedding a bit of that newborn layer.

It’s common to see a little redness too, especially on their hands and feet — nothing to worry about!

The 1 week old baby red skin peeling phase is just part of the transition; soon enough, they’ll have that baby-soft skin you’ve heard so much about!

Can I put lotion on my 1 week old baby?

Yes, you can put lotion on your one-week-old, but go for something super gentle and fragrance-free.

Newborn skin is extra sensitive, so a light, baby-safe moisturizer is all they need (if at all).

It’s best to check with your doc before putting anything on baby’s skin, just in case.

What should a 1 week old baby temperature be?

For a one-week-old, their normal temperature sits between 36.5°C and 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F).

Babies are still getting the hang of temperature regulation, so it’s normal for them to feel a bit warm or cool sometimes.

f you’re ever in doubt, a quick check with a thermometer can give you peace of mind.

Why does my 1 week old baby sound congested?

Newborns often sound a bit congested because their tiny airways are still clearing out leftover fluid from birth, which can be the reason why it sounds like they’re breathing so hard.

Those little snuffles and grunts are normal (and pretty cute!), but if it sounds particularly stuffy, a gentle saline drop or a quick nose suction can help.

But if you’re at all concerned about baby’s breathing, speak to your doctor ASAP.

How to bathe a 1 week old baby

To bathe your one-week-old, a gentle sponge bath with warm water does the trick!

Just focus on the face, neck folds, and diaper area, steering clear of the umbilical cord stump — it needs to stay dry to heal properly. [10]

And remember, they don’t need daily baths, so no pressure to add this to the routine just yet. [11]

Is it OK to take a 1 week old baby out?

Your baby is is still building up their immune system, so while small, gentle outings are great, there’s no need to dive into the crowds just yet.

Fresh air and a bit of sunlight are wonderful for both of you, so feel free to take a stroll — just keep it mellow.

Avoid extremes in weather (think very hot, wet, or very cold) and stick to peaceful spots over busy ones if you can.

How much awake time for a 1 week old?

At one week old, your baby’s awake time is brief — usually just 40-60 minutes here and there, including feeding time!

Between all that growing and adjusting, they’re pros at drifting back to sleep.

So, enjoy those little windows of alertness; they’ll be snoozing again before you know it!

My 1 week old cries when put down, what do I do?

At this stage, they just love being close to you; it’s their comfort zone, so it’s no surprise if your baby cries when they’re put down.

Try swaddling, a gentle sway, or even a cozy baby wrap so you can keep them close while freeing up your hands.

This phase won’t last forever, mama, don’t worry!

Is it normal that my 1 week old baby doesn’t cry?

Yes, it’s totally normal — some babies are just naturally quieter and may not cry much at first.

As long as they’re feeding well, alert during awake times, and having wet diapers, they’re likely just a mellow little soul.

Enjoy the calm moments — they might find their voice soon enough!

How to burp a 1 week old baby

Just a gentle pat or two will do!

Try holding them upright against your chest or over your shoulder and give light pats on the back.

Or, sit them on your lap, supporting their head and chest, and do a few gentle rubs.

Don’t worry if it takes a minute — they’ll get that tiny burp out in their own sweet time!

🫢 Become a pro: How to Burp a Baby: Tips & Tricks

Why does my 1 week old baby keep getting hiccups?

Hiccups are totally normal for one-week-olds!

Their tiny diaphragms are still getting used to the whole “breathing” thing, so little spasms happen easily.

Luckily, hiccups don’t bother babies as much as they do us — they’ll outgrow it soon enough, so just sit back and enjoy the cuteness. 🥹

What can a newborn see at 1 week?

At one week old, your baby’s vision is pretty limited — like a soft-focus lens, with limited colors.

They can see about 8-12 inches away, mostly in shades of light and dark, just far enough to focus on your face during cuddle time. [12]

Beyond that, everything’s a bit of a blur, but they’ll be seeing more clearly before you know it!

When is baby’s first doctor’s appointment?

Baby’s first visit to the doctor will usually be when they’re a few days old, a couple of days after you leave the hospital. [13, 14]

Here’s a heads-up on what to expect at your baby’s first doctor’s appointment:

• The doctor will give your babe a full once-over, so dressing them in simple clothes can help. Bring the essentials: extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, their pacifier, and any feeding gear.
• They’ll weigh your baby, measure their head, and gently check for those soft spots on their skull. Those are actually good — they’re there to let your baby’s brain grow and stretch out a bit.
• A quick feel of the collarbone comes next, since some babies get a little bruised or even a bit cracked during birth. It usually heals fine on its own, but the doc may have some pointers.
• Expect a little inspection of the hips, reflexes, pulse, and their genitals, just to make sure everything’s coming along normally.
• They’ll also ask about feeding and sleeping, and this is your moment to ask any of those random questions that have popped up since bringing baby home. And we mean any — trust us, the docs have heard it all before, and there’s no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to motherhood!

How should I dress my 1 week old baby?

Keep it simple with soft onesies and a layer or two, depending on the temperature.

A good rule is to dress them in one more layer than you’re wearing — babies are still getting the hang of staying warm on their own!

Don’t stress about fancy outfits or tiny socks (those things are Houdinis and will disappear); just go for soft, snuggly layers that make diaper changes easy.

And if you’re second-guessing yourself, remember: babies don’t mind a bit of trial and error!

🛏️ What about for nap-time? How to Dress a Baby for Sleep

How do you carry a 1 week old baby?

Keep it simple: support their head and neck with one hand and cradle their body with the other.

If you feel like you need three hands, you’re not alone!

Bring them close to your chest for a reassuring snuggle.

It might feel a bit awkward at first, but you’ll be a pro in no time.

And don’t forget, they’re sturdier than they look, so trust yourself, take a deep breath, and enjoy those sweet snuggles!

👶 Learn the essentials: How to Hold a Newborn Baby

Life with a week-old baby can be pretty full-on.

But every mama feels over their head in their early weeks, especially as postpartum exhaustion kicks in.

So, you’re in good company — and it does get easier as your body recovers.

Everything is new right now, but soon enough the everyday challenges of baby care will feel more normal and manageable.

You’ve got this, mama!

On top of that, in a few weeks, your baby’s body will start to produce their own melatonin (the hormone that tells them to get sleepy at night), so you’ll find you’ll get a bit more sleep, too.

Phew! 😮‍💨

➡️ Read next: 2 Week Old Baby: Milestones & Development