Are you struggling with a baby who just won’t sleep in their crib? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
At OllySleep, we understand the challenges of getting your little one to settle down and sleep soundly in their crib. That’s why we’ve curated a selection of products specifically designed to help with this common issue. Whether you need a cozy and comfortable mattress, soothing essential oils, or even a noise-canceling earbud to create a peaceful environment, we have it all.
But that’s not all! We also offer a wide range of informative articles to help tackle other sleep-related problems. Check out our guide on how to wake up in the morning for tips on starting your day refreshed and energized. Curious about how Fitbit tracks sleep? We’ve got the answers in our detailed article on how Fitbit tracks sleep.
Ready to explore some of the other topics we cover? Discover the best short queen-sized mattresses or learn about the benefits of sleeping on the floor. We even have articles on understanding sleep regressions, finding the best sleep aids, and much more.
Why Baby Won’t Sleep In Crib
They aren’t used to a crib
If your child was happily sleeping in your bedroom, and now you’re putting him down in a crib, he won’t be familiar with how it feels. Get him used to falling asleep in his crib with you right next to him. Allow him to sit in the crib while you read to him, or play in there with his favorite teddy bear – make it a familiar safe space.
They don’t understand how to sleep in a crib
Often, babies are used to falling asleep in their parents’ arms while breast or bottle feeding. In this position, they are comforted by hearing the adult heartbeat and feeling body warmth. However, in a crib, these sensations are missing. Try and replicate the comforting heartbeat with a clock or mobile phone app, and ensure that baby is warm enough.
Discomfort
Some infants are vulnerable to acid reflux and colic. When they lie on their back, this discomfort can be exacerbated, preventing them from relaxing.
Uncomfortable parents
Infants have an uncanny ability to pick up on any tension from their parents. If you are feeling concerned or uneasy about putting baby in a crib, then your little one will be likely to detect your nervousness and react in a negative way.
Too much space
If your crib is too large, then your child may not feel secure. Babies love to be held, so a crib that has too much space prevents baby from gaining comfort and security.
8 Tips for getting your infant to sleep in their crib
Our tried and tested tips for encouraging baby to sleep in his comfy crib:
- Temperature – Maintaining space cool is essential. Overheating is a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and if you’re concerned purchase a fan to keep the area cool.
- Dress – Ensure that baby’s sleepsuit is comfy and cozy, without zips or buttons that may prove uncomfortable.
- Swaddle or sleeping sack – A sleeping sack could be added for extra heat or safety. Just remember to stop swaddling after your baby can rollover by himself.
- Noise – Life in the uterus was not especially silent. Rather, there was a continuous hum of white noise and muted sounds. You are able to replicate this with a white sound machine or phone app.
- Lighting – Maintain a dark and calming environment. Look at using blackout curtains to aid with daylight sleep, and try nightlights or very low wattage bulbs to carry out nighttime checks.
- Smell – Your smell is comfortable and reassuring for your child. Allow baby to sleep with one of your fleeces or tee shirts.
- Hunger – Nobody sleeps well when they are hungry, so make sure that baby has had plenty to eat several hours before bedtime.
- Bedtime routine – A good nighttime routine is important, and encourages baby to settle down. Our guide about preparing for sleep contains plenty of advice for getting your baby to drop off.
