After your baby is born, their umbilical cord will be secured with a plastic clip. The cord will then take between three to ten days to dry out and drop off.It is normal for the cord to be slightly sticky and smelly as it dries out. The area can be cleaned with plain water if necessary and dried carefully with a clean soft cloth or muslin. If you notice any bleeding from the cord or redness on your baby’s abdomen, tell your midwife, health visitor or GP.
After your baby is born, their umbilical cord will be secured with a plastic clip. The cord will then take between three to ten days to dry out and drop off.
It is normal for the cord to be slightly sticky and smelly as it dries out. The area can be cleaned with plain water if necessary and dried carefully with a clean soft cloth or muslin. If you notice any bleeding from the cord or redness on your baby’s abdomen, tell your midwife, health visitor or GP. 
