How to Treat Small Cuts and Scrapes at Home

Most minor injuries can be managed with simple first aid:

Wash your hands before touching the wound.

Gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Avoid scrubbing, which can damage healing skin.

Stop the bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.

Cover with a sterile bandage to keep dirt out and promote healing.

Change the bandage daily or if it becomes wet or dirty.

What Not to Do

Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can irritate skin and delay healing.

Don’t pick at scabs—let them heal naturally.

Don’t ignore signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.

When to Visit 45 Urgent Care

Sometimes a cut or scrape needs more than a bandage. Visit us if:

The cut is deep, won’t stop bleeding, or has jagged edges.

You see signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, pus).

An object is stuck in the wound or you can’t clean it well.

The injury was caused by something dirty or rusty and you’re unsure about your tetanus shot status.

Our urgent care team offers fast, friendly treatment for cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries—no appointment needed. We’re committed to getting you back to your day safely and quickly.

For more helpful health tips, visit our blog or see everything we treat at our walk-in clinic.