5 Newborn Sleeping Habits New Parents Should Avoid

5 Newborn Sleeping Habits New Parents Should Avoid

Let me start by saying: there’s no such thing as a perfect approach to newborn sleep. Each little one has their own unique personality, and it takes a bit of trial and error before you figure out what works. That being said, I’ve seen enough sleepless nights (and survived them!) to know a few habits that can make those early months harder than they need to be. Avoiding these pitfalls can set you and your baby up for a smoother transition into a regular sleep routine—one that supports their growth and helps you catch some much-needed rest, too!

1. Letting the Baby Fall Asleep Anywhere

I know how sweet it feels to have your newborn doze off on your chest—there’s something magical about those snuggly moments. And truth be told, an occasional nap in your arms won’t “spoil” them or do any long-term damage. Yet from my experience, letting the baby consistently fall asleep anywhere and everywhere can wind up working against you in the long run.

The Importance of a Consistent Sleep Environment

• Creating Familiarity: Babies thrive on familiarity. When they start to recognize their crib or bassinet as their “sleep spot,” it can make the process of settling down smoother—especially during the unpredictable nighttime hours.
• Encouraging Self-Soothing: While dozing off in your arms feels wonderful, too much of it might mean your little one becomes dependent on that specific comfort to drift off. Establishing a dedicated sleep space gives them a chance to learn to relax on their own.
• Routine vs. Random: If you rely heavily on car seat naps, stroller snoozes, and catnaps on the couch, it becomes harder to notice your baby’s natural sleep cues. Having a crib or bassinet as the primary location helps build a steady rhythm, which you’ll appreciate once growth spurts and teething start to throw curveballs at bedtime.

What to Do Instead

1. Designate a Sleep Space: It’s certainly okay to let your baby nap in your arms sometimes. But whenever you can, place them in a crib or bassinet that’s been designed for newborn safety—especially at night.
2. Keep It Simple: The sleep area should be free of loose bedding or stuffed toys. A fitted sheet on a firm mattress is the gold standard.
3. Embrace Imperfection: There will be moments—especially in the first few weeks—when your baby just wants to be held. Cherish those times! But try to balance them with a consistent routine whenever possible, so they learn that sleep can happen both in your arms and in their crib.

2. Overdressing or Underdressing Your Baby for Sleep

Making sure a newborn is neither too hot nor too cold can feel like an art in itself. You don’t want them shivering, but piling on layer after layer can also lead to restless nights and an uncomfortable (or even unsafe) sleep.

Why the Right Clothes Matter

• Body Temperature: Babies can’t regulate their body temperature the way adults can. Dress them in breathable, lightweight fabrics—like cotton—to help keep them at a cozy, steady temperature.
• Safety First: Overheating can be a factor in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Keep an eye on the back of your baby’s neck to check for sweating or overheating.
• Comfort and Confidence: Sleepers or swaddles that fit snugly help your little one feel secure without the risk of loose clothing riding up or covering their face.

What to Do Instead

1. One More Layer Rule: A tried-and-true guideline is to dress your baby in what you’d wear, plus one light layer.
2. Consider Wearable Blankets: Sleep sacks or swaddles replace the need for a loose blanket, cutting down on suffocation hazards.
3. Adjust as Needed: If your baby feels sweaty, remove a layer. If their hands and feet are cool but their core is warm, that’s normal. Focus on their torso temperature.

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3. Using Sleep Props to Get Baby to Sleep

It can feel like magic at first: rocking, bouncing, or nursing your little one to sleep when they’re overtired or cranky. But over time, I’ve seen this become a crutch—one that makes it tough for babies to learn how to settle themselves.

Why This Habit Sticks Around

• Instant Gratification: When the crying is relentless and you’re running on empty, rocking and nursing can be the quickest solution. No one can blame you!
• Fear of Change: You might worry that the moment you shift your routine, your baby will wail inconsolably. It’s natural to worry, but keep in mind that babies are remarkably adaptable when changes are made gently and consistently.

What to Do Instead

1. Place Baby Down Drowsy: If you can, try to transfer them to the crib or bassinet before they’ve fully fallen asleep. Let them learn that final drift into dreamland on their own.
2. Calming Rituals: A short story, a lullaby, or even soft background sounds can help them associate those cues with bedtime.
3. Small Steps: If you’re already in the habit of rocking or nursing every time, gradually reduce it—rock for a shorter period, or pause nursing just before they fully nod off.

4. Inconsistent Bedtime and Nap Routines

With a newborn, the word “routine” might feel like a fantasy—especially if you’re up half the night. But in my experience, even a loose routine can make a big difference.

Why Consistency Works Wonders

• Predictable Patterns: Babies learn what to expect from their daily rhythms. If bath time, a song, and a cuddle always come before bed, they’ll start to see it as a signal to relax.
• Better Mood, Better Sleep: An overtired baby often sleeps poorly, so aiming for naps at roughly the same times helps you catch them when they’re naturally ready to doze off.
• Smoother Transitions: Life throws curveballs—growth spurts, illnesses, traveling—but a flexible routine offers a comforting baseline.

What to Do Instead

1. Watch for Cues: If they’re rubbing their eyes or getting fussy around the same time each morning and afternoon, aim for a nap then.
2. Stick to a Bedtime Frame: Even if it shifts by 30 minutes here and there, having a ballpark bedtime keeps nights from sliding into chaos.
3. Adapt Gently: Maybe one night your baby needs an earlier bedtime because they missed a nap. That’s perfectly fine. Consistency is a goal, not a rigid rule.

5. Overlooking Safe Sleeping Practices

Despite our best intentions, it’s easy to overlook the official recommendations—things like “back to sleep” and a clear crib—when we’re bleary-eyed and swamped with baby gear. But sticking to these guidelines isn’t just about checking a box; it’s one of the most reassuring ways to keep your newborn safe.

Fundamentals of Safe Sleep

• Back is Best: Placing your baby on their back for every sleep is still advised by pediatric experts.
• A Bare Crib: While stuffed animals and fluffy blankets look cute, they can obstruct a baby’s breathing if they get too close.
• Room-Sharing Without Bed-Sharing: Keeping a crib or bassinet in your room allows you to keep a close watch on your baby, without running the risks that come with sharing an adult bed.

What to Do Instead

1. Stick to Basics: A firm mattress with a fitted sheet is all you need. Skip the extra pillows, bumpers, or loose sheets.
2. Stay Up to Date: Guidelines do evolve, so it’s wise to check with reputable sources or your pediatrician for the latest safety advice.
3. Reassure Yourself: Sometimes, it’s comforting just to know you’ve done all you can to create a safe space. A simple environment lets your baby’s natural sleep rhythms shine through.

Final Thoughts

Let me reassure you: you will sleep again. Those first months can be a whirlwind, but by steering clear of these five pitfalls, you can give your little one a safer, more predictable space to rest—and free up a little breathing room for yourself as well.

Remember, balance is key. A nap on your chest here and there is a precious bonding moment, and it won’t ruin your child’s future sleep habits. But having the right furniture (like a dedicated crib or bassinet) for your baby to recognize as their snooze spot—and making thoughtful choices about safe, comfy sleepwear—goes a long way in helping everyone settle down for the night. And when you’re ready to find a crib or décor that combines both style and safety, Rooms for A Prince and Princess  is a great place to explore.

From one parent to another, trust your instincts, do what’s best for your family, and know that a gentle routine—mixed with love and patience—often yields the sweetest dreams for your newborn and for you!