Spoiler: You might become a professional diaper inspector.
If you’re knee-deep in diapers and wondering what’s “normal” for your newborn, you’re not alone. One minute you’re celebrating a wet diaper like a gold medal, the next you’re worried it’s been too long since the last dirty one.
First-time parent? Sleep-deprived? This guide is here to reassure you, help you track your baby’s output with confidence, and know when to check in with your pediatrician.
What to Expect: Newborn Diaper Counts By Day
Here’s a general guideline for wet and dirty diapers in the first week of life:
| Baby’s Age | Wet Diapers | Dirty Diapers |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 1+ | 1 (black, sticky meconium) |
| Day 2 | 2+ | 1-2 (dark green) |
| Day 3 | 3+ | 2-3 (dark green to brown) |
| Day 4 | 4+ | 3-4 (brown to yellow) |
| Day 5 | 5+ | 3-4 (mustard yellow, seedy) |
| Day 6 | 6+ | 3-5 (yellow, seedy) |
| Day 7+ | 6+ | 3-5 (consistent yellow, soft) |
✅ Tip: Wet diapers = clear or pale yellow. Dirty diapers = yellow, soft, and seedy (breastfed) or pasty (formula-fed).
Downloadable Diaper Tracker Chart
Need help keeping track during the blur of early days?
[Click here to download our free Newborn Diaper Tracker PDF] – print it out or keep it on your phone to track wet/dirty diapers and feedings.
What Are Those Red Stains in the Diaper?
If you see pinkish or rusty spots in your baby’s diaper in the first few days, don’t panic. These are called urates, sometimes nicknamed “brick dust.”
They’re a normal result of concentrated urine in the early days before your baby takes in enough milk. If it continues beyond day 3 or shows up after milk supply is in, check in with your pediatrician.
Signs to Watch Out For
Contact your doctor if:
- Fewer than 6 wet diapers per day by day 5
- No dirty diaper in over 24 hours during the first week
- Dark urine, strong odor, or very concentrated
- Baby seems lethargic, has dry mouth, or isn’t feeding well
These could be signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk or formula.
A Quick Check-In: Is Your Baby Getting Enough Milk?
Diaper output is one of the best clues that your baby is well-fed. If you want to double-check if your baby is eating enough, try our free tool:
👉 Use the Bottle-Feeding Calculator to estimate how much milk your newborn needs based on their weight and age.
Final Thoughts
Every baby is unique, but diapers tell a powerful story. If you’re tracking wet and dirty diapers, you’re already doing great. Keep it up, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician with questions.
You’ve got this, even if you’re running on coffee and love. 💛
Want more no-stress feeding tips? Browse our blog for trusted advice, simple tools, and support you can actually use.