Struggling to sleep with a newborn in the house? You’re not alone. From late-night feeds to unpredictable wake-ups, those early months can be a blur of exhaustion. But there are ways to make nights easier for both you and your baby. These tried-and-tested tips can help you build healthy newborn sleep habits while catching a bit more rest yourself.
Prioritise Going to Bed Early.
It sounds simple, but going to bed early can make all the difference especially when you don’t know what time your baby will wake next. While you might be tempted to catch up on housework once your little one is asleep, consider resting when they do. Even if you're not a napper, lying down and closing your eyes can help restore energy.
Your wellbeing is just as important as your baby's. Leave the washing and ironing for later. You’ll be a better parent if you’ve had some rest and babies thrive when their caregivers are functioning well.
According to sleep experts, newborns need around 8 hours of daytime sleep up to three months of age, in addition to night-time rest. So take advantage of those naps when you can.
Establish a Soothing Bedtime Routine.
A consistent bedtime routine can help your baby learn when it’s time to sleep. Gentle activities like a warm bath, swaddle time, and a short story create calming signals and can become familiar sleep cues. You might also want to try a dream feed - a feed given just before you go to bed yourself - to stretch the time before your baby wakes up hungry again.
Top tip: Track your baby’s naps with a sleep log such as the iZzzleep app. Patterns often emerge, and knowing your baby’s natural rhythm can help you plan your day and your own rest more effectively.
Be Prepared Before Bedtime.
Save yourself stress in the night by getting everything ready in advance. Place a changing mat, nappies, wipes, and a spare sleepsuit within easy reach. If you're bottle feeding, sterilise bottles ahead of time and set up your night feeds.
This preparation helps you manage nighttime wake-ups with less disruption, so everyone can get back to sleep quicker.
Snack Smart for Night Feeds.
Night feeds can leave you feeling depleted, so keep healthy snacks close by. Opt for nourishing options like oat bars, crackers or fruit that provide slow-release energy. Avoid heavy or sugary snacks that might keep you awake.
Use a Swaddle Bag or Baby Sleeping Bag.
One of the most practical ways to support safe sleep is with a baby sleeping bag. Recommended by the NHS and The Lullaby Trust, sleeping bags help babies sleep safely on their backs and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Benefits of baby sleeping bags:
✔ Prevent your baby’s head from being covered by loose bedding
✔ Maintain a consistent body temperature through the night
✔ Reduce the risk of overheating or waking from cold
✔ Encourage safe sleep positioning
At Slumbersac, we offer TOG-rated swaddle bags and sleeping bags for every season - available from birth.
Try White Noise for Better Sleep.
Many newborns find white noise comforting because it mimics the sounds of the womb. Whether it’s the hum of a fan or a white noise machine, the gentle sound can help your baby settle and sleep longer, especially in noisy households.
Use Nightlights Wisely.
Soft, warm-toned nightlights provide enough light for night feeds and nappy changes without fully waking your baby. They also make those half-asleep wake-ups easier to navigate.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help.
Share the load wherever possible. If you’re bottle feeding, take turns with your partner during night feeds. Even when breastfeeding, your partner can burp or settle the baby afterward. You might also consider expressing milk so your partner can cover one of the night feeds and give you a longer stretch of uninterrupted sleep.
The newborn stage is tough but temporary. With a few simple strategies, you can build a sleep routine that works for your family and helps you feel more rested and in control.
Support Safe Newborn Sleep with Slumbersac
Slumbersac offers a range of solutions designed to help your baby sleep safely and soundly. Browse our swaddle bags and newborn sleeping bags and newborn sleeping bags with feet today to find your perfect fit.
