ParentlistClothing
Scratch Mittens
Soft mitts that stop newborns scratching their faces.
- Priority
- Nice to have
- Ages
- 0-3 months
- Category
- Clothing
When you need it
Scratch mittens are useful from birth, since newborn nails are sharp and grow fast, and babies cannot control their hand movements yet. Most families use them until around 3 months, when babies start discovering their hands and need them free to explore.
What to look for
Look for soft, breathable cotton with gentle elastic that stays on without leaving marks. Check them for loose threads that could wrap around fingers. Some sleepers and bodysuits have built-in fold-over mitts, which do not get lost. Keep nails trimmed or filed so mittens are only a backup.
Scratch Mittens: common questions
- Do I need a scratch mittens?
- They are a nice-to-have rather than essential. Keeping nails short is the main solution, and fold-over cuffs on clothing help. Many parents find a couple of pairs useful for the first weeks.
- When does a baby need a scratch mittens?
- A baby needs scratch mittens in the first weeks if they scratch their face. Most stop needing them around 3 months.
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