For a healthy newborn, expect the number of wet and dirty diapers to increase over the first few days and then level off by about one week of age.

Typical wet diapers

• Day 1–2: About 1–2 wet diapers per 24 hours is common.

• By about day 5 and beyond: At least 6 wet diapers per day is expected; many babies have 6–10.

Typical dirty diapers

• First few days: Several dark, tarry meconium stools, often 1–3 per day.

• By the end of the first week: Around 3–4 or more soft, yellow stools per day is common in many newborns.

When to call the doctor

• Fewer than 4–6 wet diapers per day after the first few days of life.

• No stool for over 24 hours in the first week, very hard stools, very watery stools, or if the baby seems very sleepy, not feeding well, or has signs of dehydration like a dry mouth or no tears when crying.

If anything seems off or your baby is not meeting these minimums, contact the baby’s pediatrician or a nurse line promptly for specific guidance.