Should visitors wash their hands before holding my newborn?
You can ask visitors to clean their hands, wait until they are well and follow your care team advice before holding your baby.
The short answer
Yes. AAP and NHS guidance supports clean hands before touching a newborn and asking people who are ill to wait before visiting. Follow extra instructions from your baby's care team.
Set a simple hand washing rule
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends good hygiene around a newborn, including hand washing. NHS guidance says everyone should wash their hands before handling a baby. You can make this easy by keeping soap and a clean towel available and telling visitors what you would like before they come in.
If soap and water aren’t readily available, the CDC says a hand sanitizer with at least sixty percent alcohol can help clean hands. Follow any different instructions from your maternity unit or baby's doctor.
Ask unwell visitors to wait
NHS guidance says people with a current or recent cold sore shouldn’t kiss a newborn. It also recommends hand washing before contact and avoiding kisses near the baby's mouth, nose or eyes. The AAP says young children should be reminded not to kiss a newborn, especially if they are coughing or might be sick. You can postpone a visit when someone feels unwell, and ask your care team about any illness specific precautions.
Premature babies and babies with medical needs may need extra precautions. If your baby has a care plan, ask the care team which visitor rules they want your household to follow.
Choose boundaries that work for your family
You can welcome practical help while setting limits on holding, kissing or visit length. A visitor can bring food, run an errand or talk with you without holding the baby. Clear expectations can make the visit easier for everyone.
Hospitals and regions can have their own rules, and your baby’s health matters too, so ask your midwife or doctor if you’re unsure.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.