# Signs of dehydration in babies

> Dehydration in babies: wet diaper count and the other signs, severe signs, when to call

Illness & fever · Reviewed 2026-10-19 against the sources below · https://livia.baby/learn/dehydration

- Signs of mild to moderate dehydration in a baby: fewer than six wet diapers a day, fewer tears when crying, a dry mouth, a sunken soft spot on the head, playing less than usual.
- Severe signs: very fussy or unusually sleepy, sunken eyes, cool and discoloured hands and feet, wrinkled skin, peeing only once or twice a day.
- Vomiting or diarrhea are the usual causes in babies, so watch the diaper count closely while a baby is sick.

## When to call
- The AAP says to tell the pediatrician immediately if any of these signs develop.

## In Livia

When your baby is sick, log every diaper, wet or dirty: History shows them day by day, and the count is the first number a pediatrician asks for.

## Sources

- [AAP / HealthyChildren.org](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Dehydration.aspx)

_Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911._