My Newborn Fusses When I Lay Him Down — How Do I Break Him of This?

If your newborn starts fussing every time you lay them down, you’re not alone! Many new parents face this challenge. While it can be stressful, the good news is that it’s usually just a phase. In this guide, we’ll share some tips to help calm your baby and help them settle in their crib, making bedtime a little easier for both of you.

Why Does My Baby Fuss When I Lay Him Down?

There are several reasons your baby might be upset when you lay them down. Understanding the cause is the first step to finding a solution:

• Hunger: Even if your baby just ate, they may still be hungry. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed more often.
• Discomfort: Your baby might be uncomfortable due to a wet diaper, being too hot or cold, or feeling cramped in their clothing.
• Need for Comfort: Babies crave the warmth and closeness they experienced in the womb. When you lay them down, they may feel lonely or insecure.
• Startle Reflex: Newborns have a natural startle reflex. If they feel suddenly laid down or unsupported, they might feel a bit unsettled.

How to Help Your Baby Settle Down

Here are some tips to help break the cycle of fussing and help your baby feel more comfortable when laid down:

• Swaddle Your Baby: Swaddling mimics the feeling of being held and helps your baby feel secure. Make sure to leave enough room for their hips to move, to avoid any hip issues.
• Gentle Rocking: Rock your baby in your arms before laying them down. A smooth transition can make a big difference and help your little one feel more relaxed.
• Establish a Sleep Routine: Babies thrive on consistency. Create a calming bedtime routine—whether it’s a bath, feeding, or lullaby—so they start associating these activities with sleep.
• Let Them Self-Soothe: While it can be tough, some babies find comfort in self-soothing. If your baby is calm but not yet asleep, try letting them lie quietly for a few minutes to see if they can settle on their own.
• Check for Discomfort: Before laying your baby down, make sure their diaper is dry, they’re comfortable, and the room temperature is just right.

Using a Baby Monitor for Extra Peace of Mind

While your baby is adjusting to sleeping on their own, a baby monitor can be a lifesaver. It lets you check in on your little one without disturbing their rest. Many baby monitors also come with two-way audio, allowing you to soothe your baby with your voice if they start to get fussy.

At HelloBaby, we recommend our video baby monitors for their high-definition camera and clear audio, so you can keep an eye on your baby even if you’re in another room. The night vision feature is also a great bonus for late-night check-ins.

Additional Tips for Soothing Your Baby

Here are a few more ideas to help your baby settle into their crib:

• Use White Noise: White noise can be incredibly soothing for babies. It mimics the sounds they heard while in the womb and can help them feel more secure and relaxed.
• Try a Pacifier: If your baby is sucking for comfort, a pacifier can provide that soothing sensation and help calm them down when laid down.
• Be Patient: This phase will pass! As your baby grows, they’ll become more accustomed to sleeping independently, so try to stay patient and consistent with your approach.

FAQs About Newborn Fussing

Explore Our Baby Monitor Collection

Need some peace of mind while your baby settles into their crib? Check out our selection of top-quality baby monitors that help you keep an eye on your little one. Take a look at the HelloBaby HB6560 Video Baby Monitor for reliable video and audio, perfect for late-night check-ins!