7 Gentle Tips to Help Your Baby Sleep Better Tonight
If there’s one thing I wish I knew as a new mom, it’s that babies don’t just naturally fall into a perfect sleep schedule.
I remember my first few months with my oldest—nights blurred into days as I desperately tried to figure out why she wouldn’t sleep for more than two hours at a time.
It seemed like every time I rocked her to sleep and laid her in the crib, she’d pop awake again, looking at me with those wide eyes as if to say, “Nice try, Mom.”
But as I settled into motherhood, I started learning small tricks here and there that made a world of difference.
Soon, her sleep stretches became longer, and I finally got a few hours of peace and quiet. That experience is what led me to these tips, designed to help you (and your baby) finally get some well-deserved rest.
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1. Establish a Soothing Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine helps your baby know that sleep time is approaching. Start by dimming the lights, reading a short story, and ending with some soft music or a lullaby.
Consistency is key. One tool that helped us tremendously was using a white noise machine like the Hatch Baby Rest—the soft hum helped block out household noises, making it easier for my baby to drift off peacefully.
2. Choose the Right Sleep Environment
Creating a comfortable sleep environment can work wonders. Make sure your baby’s room is slightly cool, dark, and free of distractions.
We found that using a blackout curtain really helped to signal that it was time to sleep, even during those long summer evenings when it was still bright outside.
And don’t forget about safe sleep practices! If your baby still seems restless, try using a breathable sleep sack to keep them snug without the need for loose blankets. I always swore by the Halo Sleepsack—it kept my little one cozy while allowing freedom of movement in their bed.
3. Try to Implement the “Eat, Play, Sleep” Cycle
This cycle helps your baby understand the flow of their day and gives them time to wind down between meals and sleep.
When I started feeding my baby, having a comfortable nursing pillow was a lifesaver. I’d settle into the rocker with my Boppy Nursing Pillow and enjoy a few peaceful moments together before transitioning to playtime.
4. Look for Early Sleep Cues
One of the biggest game-changers for us was learning to spot my baby’s early sleep cues—yawning, rubbing her eyes, or staring blankly into space.
Once I noticed these, I’d know it was time for sleep. Trying to settle them before they become overtired is crucial, as an overtired baby can be much harder to put down.
5. Invest in a High-Quality Crib Mattress
If your baby isn’t sleeping soundly, it might be time to look at their mattress. Babies spend so much time sleeping (or attempting to sleep), so a good crib mattress can make all the difference.
I found that the Newton Baby Crib Mattress provided both comfort and safety—it’s breathable and supportive, giving me extra peace of mind.
6. Keep Nights Boring
To help your baby differentiate between day and night, keep nighttime interactions minimal and calm.
Use a nightlight with a soft, warm glow and resist the urge to chat or play when your baby wakes up. My go-to was the this nightlight, which could be adjusted with a gentle touch—perfect for those late-night diaper changes.
7. Be Patient and Flexible
Finally, remember that every baby is different. What worked wonders for my firstborn didn’t quite click with my second.
It’s a learning process for both of you, and that’s okay. Keep trying different approaches, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to reach out to your pediatrician if sleep problems persist.
Bottom Line
With these gentle tips and a bit of patience, you’ll be on your way to more restful nights and brighter mornings.
Hang in there, mama—you’re doing an amazing job! And remember, sometimes just having the right tools, like a white noise machine, a comfortable nursing pillow, or a breathable sleep sack, can be the game-changer your baby needs to settle into a peaceful sleep routine
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FAQ
How can I improve my baby’s sleep?
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine.
- Create a calm and soothing sleep environment (dark, quiet, slightly cool).
- Use tools like white noise machines or blackout curtains.
- Watch for early sleep cues to prevent overtiredness.
- Stick to a routine, like the “Eat, Play, Sleep” cycle.
What is the hardest week of a newborn?
Weeks 6 to 8 are often the hardest, as babies experience peak crying and fussiness during this period due to developmental changes and adjusting to life outside the womb.
What age do babies get easier?
Babies often get easier around 3-4 months, when they start developing more predictable routines, sleep longer stretches at night, and engage with their environment more.
How do I keep my baby asleep at night?
- Feed your baby well during the day to reduce nighttime hunger.
- Use a consistent sleep routine and environment.
- Minimize interaction during night wakings—keep it quiet and dimly lit.
- Invest in a good crib mattress and consider using a sleep sack.
How to resettle a baby at night without feeding?
- Use gentle techniques like patting, shushing, or rocking.
- Offer a pacifier if your baby uses one.
- Avoid picking them up immediately—sometimes, they settle on their own.
- Ensure they are comfortable (e.g., diaper change, correct room temperature).
Why does my baby wake up every time I put him down?
Babies often wake up due to the Moro reflex (startle reflex) or because they miss the warmth and security of being held. Swaddling or using a sleep sack can help them feel snug and secure.
What week do newborns cry the most?
Newborns typically cry the most around weeks 6-8 as they go through a peak in fussiness and rapid neurological growth.
Which baby growth spurt is the hardest?
The 6-week growth spurt is often considered the hardest, as it coincides with peak crying and increased feeding needs.
What week is no longer a newborn?
Babies are generally considered newborns until they are 8 weeks old, after which they transition into the infant stage.
What age do babies prefer parents?
Babies begin showing a preference for their parents or primary caregivers around 3-4 months, as they recognize familiar faces and voices.
When are babies no longer at risk for SIDS?
The risk of SIDS decreases significantly after 6 months and is very low by 12 months, as babies’ sleep patterns and ability to roll over improve.
What to do if a newborn only sleeps when held?
- Try swaddling to mimic the feeling of being held.
- Use a white noise machine to create a calming atmosphere.
- Gradually transition them to the crib by placing them down when drowsy but awake.
- Offer comfort through gentle pats or soothing sounds instead of picking them up immediately.
