Poo Colour Checker
Wondering if your baby's poo is normal? Select a colour below to find out what it means and whether you need to take action.
Baby poo changes a lot in the first weeks and months. What's "normal" depends on your baby's age and whether they're breastfed or formula-fed.
First few days
Newborns pass meconium — a sticky, greenish-black, tar-like substance. This is completely normal and clears within 2-3 days.
Breastfed babies
After the first few days, breastfed babies typically have yellow, runny poo that may look seedy or grainy (like mustard with seeds). They may poo several times a day, or go several days without — both can be normal.
Formula-fed babies
Formula-fed babies tend to have tan, yellow-brown, or greenish poo that's thicker and more paste-like. They usually poo less frequently than breastfed babies.
After weaning
Once your baby starts solids, poo becomes thicker, darker, and smellier. You may see bits of undigested food — this is normal as their digestive system is still developing.
Select the colour
Tap the colour that most closely matches what you see in the nappy.
Quick Reference Guide
Usually normal
Yellow, mustard, tan, green, orange, brown — these are typically healthy colours
Keep an eye on
Black poo after the first few days, very dark brown with blood streaks
Contact GP urgently
White, pale, or chalky poo — this needs same-day medical attention
Important: White or pale poo
If your baby's poo is white, very pale, or chalky, contact your GP or health visitor the same day. This can be a sign of a liver condition called biliary atresia, which needs early treatment.
Healthy poo gets its colour from bile. Pale poo may mean bile isn't reaching the gut properly.
Want to track your baby's nappies?
Try our Nappy Tracker