You’re probably here because you can’t get your little one to sleep. You’re not alone — many parents have been there, wondering what to do next. While every baby is different, there are some tried-and-tested tips that can help your baby sleep faster.
How Much Sleep Does a Baby Need?
Nighttime sleep requirements vary depending on age. Here’s a summary of sleep needs:
- Newborn and 1 month old: Eight to nine hours
- 3 months old: Nine to 10 hours
- 6 months old: 10 hours
- 9 months to 2 years old: 11 hours
How to Help Your Baby Fall Asleep
Your baby feels most secure when you’re with them. Here are ways to help your little one sleep soundly.

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1. Offer a Pacifier
Pacifiers can help calm a fussy baby and may come in handy when they’re still active during bedtime. Only consider this tip if you’ve tried rocking or changing your infant’s position. Replace pacifiers often and avoid attaching them to a strap to ensure your little one’s safety.
2. Establish a Bedtime Routine
At night, a “feed-play-sleep” routine may help your baby drift into slumber easily. Usually, an infant feels alert after feeding and a diaper change. Take this opportunity to read them bedtime stories, which can help calm their minds and bodies, signaling it’s time to get ready for sleep. Pay attention to tired signs like yawning or frowning, and give them a goodnight kiss.
3. Dim the Lights
Overstimulation makes it hard for you to sleep, and it’s no different for your little one. Dim the lights before bedtime to signal to your baby it’s time to slow down. Close the windows or use blackout curtains to block out morning light and give your child uninterrupted sleep.
4. Sing a Lullaby
Singing lullabies is a great way to help your baby sleep faster. If your parents, grandparents or guardian used to sing to you, ask them the songs they sang to lull you to sleep, and do the same for your little one. Choose one with repetitive lyrics and keep your voice low when singing. If you’re feeling creative, use real-life images or characters to create your own lullaby.
5. Swaddle Your Baby
If your baby can’t sleep unless held, try swaddling. It boosts their feelings of safety and comfort, mimicking physical contact. Use a lightweight fabric that won’t cover your infant’s face and restrict their breathing. Secure the swaddle so it won’t loosen during the night. Place your child on their back after being swaddled to keep them safe. If you’re still unsure about the steps, consider a velcro swaddle.

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What Should You Do if Your Baby Still Refuses to Sleep?
It’s frustrating when you’ve tried everything and your baby still won’t sleep. Here are some next steps:
- Talk to your pediatrician: Check in with your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues that may cause sleep refusal.
- Stay flexible: While consistency is important, it pays to experiment with different strategies to see what will work for your baby.
Enjoy Uninterrupted Sleep
There’s no such thing as a perfect sleeper. Many parents have dealt with this at least once in their lives. By trying these strategies and staying consistent, you’ll likely see positive changes. If all else fails, call your pediatrician to get personalized recommendations.