Questions And Answers About Baby Sleep

Q: How long should my newborn baby sleep?

A: Most newborn babies sleep between 15 and 18 hours a day. As long as she is waking up to eat and wetting about seven diapers each day, you can let her sleep.

Q: How long until my baby can sleep all night without being fed?

A: Most baby’s sleep through the night when they are around 12 pounds.

Q: Is it okay to use a nightlight in baby’s room?

A: At least one study has shown that children who use nightlights in their rooms tend to have vision issues as they grow. Using a nightlight is not really necessary.

Q: How old should a baby be before moving to a regular bed?

A: Most toddlers are ready to move to a regular bed when they are about two years old. You should use a rail on the side of the bed when you make the move.

Q: Is it okay to give my baby a bottle in the crib?

A: Do not give your baby a bottle in bed. It is a choking risk and the fluid can pool around her teeth and give her bottle mouth.

Q: How old should my baby be before she can use a pillow?

A: Wait until your child is at least two years old before giving her a pillow.

Q: When can my baby sleep with a blanket?

A: Baby should not sleep with a blanket until she is at least a year old. Wearing a fleece footie pajama or sleeping sack is a great way to keep baby warm (and safe).

Q: Is it okay to let my baby cry herself to sleep?

A: No it is definitely not right to let a baby cry until she falls asleep. It is important to respond to her quickly so that she develops a bond of trust. Moms who respond to their babies more quickly have babies that cry less overall.

Q: Can our cat sleep in the baby’s room?

A: Your cat should not sleep with your baby even if the cat is mild mannered. The cat could accidentally suffocate or scratch your baby. It is better to err on the side of caution.

Q: Is it okay to give baby Benadryl to make her go to sleep?

A: Unless prescribed by your pediatrician, do not give your baby anything to make her sleep.

Q: What can I do to keep my baby from dying of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?

A: There are some things you can do to prevent SIDS, which happens between one month and one year of life (with two to three months being the most dangerous time). First, get good prenatal care, do not smoke or drink alcohol. Eat properly. SIDS may be caused by a malformation in the brain. This happens particularly in babies whose mothers have smoked during pregnancy. Put baby to sleep on her side or back. She should be warm but not overheated. She should go to sleep on a firm surface, never on a couch or waterbed (even when you are right next to her). Some studies show that breastfeeding reduces the chances of SIDS. Use a monitor to keep track of her as baby sleeps.

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