Newborn Won’t Sleep At Night? 13 Tips and Tricks

Last reviewed: November 6, 2026. Checked against current guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org), the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Nemours KidsHealth.

Many parents struggle with getting their newborns to sleep through the night. In this article, we will discuss 13 tips and tricks that may help get your little one on a good sleep schedule! Keep in mind that newborns are not expected to sleep through the night yet. They wake often to feed, and that is normal.

Keep Your Baby Upright

After a feeding, holding your baby upright for a little while can help with burping and spit-up. When your baby is awake during the day, give them plenty of time to move and play, including tummy time while you watch. When it is time to sleep, always lay your baby down flat on their back. The position of the baby is very important when you are putting them to sleep.

Avoid Stimulation

In the evening hours, try to avoid any type of stimulation. This includes bright lights, loud noises, and active play. Keep things calm and quiet in the house so that your baby can relax and fall asleep more easily. It is also important to avoid screen time before bed. The blue light from screens can be very stimulating and keep your baby awake.

Create a Bedtime Routine

Having a bedtime routine is important for both you and your baby. A bedtime routine will help signal to your baby that it is time to sleep. It can be something as simple as reading a book or taking a bath. It is also important to keep a consistent bedtime. Try to put your baby down at the same time every night. This will help their little bodies get into a sleep rhythm.

Always Use the Back Sleep Position

If you are struggling to get your baby to sleep through the night, it can be tempting to try different sleep positions. Don’t. Always place your baby on their back for every nap and at night. Stomach and side sleeping raise the risk of SIDS. Swings, bouncers, car seats and inclined sleepers are not safe for sleep. If your baby falls asleep in one, move them to a firm, flat sleep surface on their back as soon as you can.

Don’t Let Your Baby Get Overtired

If your baby gets overtired, it will be much harder for them to fall asleep. Try to put them down for a nap at the same time each day and make sure they get enough sleep during the day. It is also important to watch for signs of fatigue in your baby. If they are rubbing their eyes or yawning, it is time for a nap.

Give Them a Massage

A calming massage can help your baby to relax before bedtime. You can use a little gentle baby lotion, but you don’t need anything scented. It is also important to make sure the room is dark and quiet when you are giving your baby a massage.

Make Sure They Are Comfortable

It is important to make sure your baby is comfortable when they are trying to sleep. This means making sure the room temperature is not too hot or too cold. Dress your baby in no more than one layer more than you would wear. Use a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet, and keep everything else out of the crib, including blankets, pillows, bumpers and toys. Keep your baby’s crib or bassinet in your room, but don’t share a bed. You want your baby to be as comfortable and safe as possible when they are sleeping so that they can get a good night’s rest.

Turn Off the Lights

When it is time for your baby to go to sleep, turn off the lights in the room; this will help them to relax and fall asleep faster. You can use a nightlight if you need to have some light in the room. But try to keep it as dim as possible so that your baby’s body can start producing melatonin and they can fall asleep more easily.

Use White Noise

White noise can be helpful in getting your baby to sleep. It can help block out any distractions and create a calm environment. You can buy white noise machines or use apps on your phone. It is important to find a sound that your baby enjoys and that isn’t too loud. Keep the machine or phone well away from the crib, outside of it, and keep the volume low to protect your baby’s hearing.

Put Your Baby to Bed Drowsy, But Awake

If you put your baby to bed while they are still awake, they will learn how to fall asleep on their own. This will help them get more restful sleep at night. It may take a few nights for them to get used to going to bed without being asleep. But eventually, they will learn how to fall asleep on their own.

Play the Same Music Every Night

If you play the same music every night before bed, your baby will start to associate it with sleep. This can help them to relax and fall asleep more easily. You can use calming classical music or nature sounds. Experiment until you find a type of music that your baby enjoys and that helps them to sleep better at night.

Use a Pacifier

If your baby is having trouble sleeping, a pacifier can help. It can provide them with a sense of security and comfort. It is important to make sure that the pacifier is clean and in good condition. You don’t want your baby to choke on it or get an infection. If you are breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is going well before offering one. Never hang a pacifier around your baby’s neck or clip it to their clothes while they sleep.

Swaddle your Baby

Swaddling can help your baby to feel secure and comfortable. It will remind them of being in the womb and can help them to fall asleep more easily. Make sure you use a lightweight blanket so that your baby doesn’t get too hot. Always place a swaddled baby on their back, and leave room for their hips and legs to move. Stop swaddling as soon as your baby looks like they are trying to roll over. Never use a weighted swaddle or sleep sack.

These are just a few tips and tricks that can help your baby to sleep better at night. Experiment and see what works best for your little one (Read here also: Common infant sleep disorders signs). And don’t be afraid to ask for help from a doctor or sleep specialist if you are having trouble getting your baby to sleep through the night. With a little persistence, you will find a method that works for you and your baby.

This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Always contact your pediatrician with questions about your baby’s health.