Babies sleep best in a room that’s kept at around 68 to 72° F (20-22° C). Be careful not to overheat your baby. In general, newborns only need 1 more layer than you do to feel comfortable. If your newborn appears to be sweating or look flushed, remove a layer of clothing. [2] X Research source

Be sure to remove any blankets, pillows, and toys from the bassinet so that your baby stays safe as they sleep, too.

When you swaddle your newborn, the top of the blanket should just meet their shoulders, with no portion of the blanket covering their face. [4] X Research source Don’t make your swaddle so tight that your baby can’t wiggle their hips or legs. You should be able to fit 2 to 3 fingers between their chest and the swaddle. [5] X Research source If you notice your baby trying to roll over, it’s time to stop swaddling them; it can be harmful for your baby to be on their stomach while swaddled. Babies typically start rolling over around 3 to 4 months old, but some start earlier.

There’s no right bedtime routine, just whatever works for you and your baby! You might give them a bath, feed and cuddle them, then sing a lullaby. Give your newborn a massage to help relax them for sleep and strengthen your bond. Simply lather your hands with olive or avocado oil and gently rub their tummy, back, arms, legs, and neck in circular motions.

To help your baby get drowsy enough for sleep, gently rock them and sing them a soothing lullaby. It’s completely normal for your baby to fuss or cry when you set them down. Wait a few minutes to see if they settle down. If they don’t, check if there is something making them uncomfortable. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

When your baby wakes up for a feeding session or diaper change, keep your room as dark and quiet as possible. Newborns don’t have a great sense of night and day, so you want to teach them that darkness means sleep time. [10] X Research source A white noise machine can also help soothe and relax your baby to sleep. Your baby is used to constant noise from when they were in the womb, so they will likely find the white noise comforting.

Most newborns need to sleep after being awake for 1 to 2 hours. Make sure you aren’t keeping them up much longer than that to prevent overtiredness. Watch for subtle cues that your newborn is sleepy. They might get really quiet, yawn, or rub their eyes to show you that they can use a nap. [12] X Research source It’s a great idea to get your newborn used to their bassinet by putting them down to nap in it throughout the day. [13] X Research source

Do not let your newborn sleep in sleep positioners, inclined sleep products, strollers, or car seats. These products keep them in a more upright position, which can limit their ability to breathe well. [15] X Research source When your baby is able to roll onto their stomach and back onto their back, you don’t need to put them back on their back.

If you’re worried about keeping your baby warm as they sleep, simply add more clothing layers. Swaddles, sleep sacks, and blankets are all great options.

There’s nothing better than sleepy newborn snuggles, but they shouldn’t be sleeping with you in your bed. Bed-sharing can put your baby at a higher risk for SIDS and suffocation.

It’s completely normal for your newborn to only want to sleep when they’re held. It’s also totally normal that you don’t want to put them down! Your baby isn’t a newborn forever and you’re allowed to soak in their cuddles and snuggles.

Most babies lose their startle reflex once they’re about 2 months old. [19] X Research source

It’s also possible that their swaddle, diaper, or clothes are irritating their skin. Check for signs of irritation like red marks or rash.

A runny or stuffy nose, being overly warm, and coughing are all common signs that your baby is sick and should be taken to your pediatrician.