Parenthood brings numerous joys, but it also introduces the challenge of maintaining your sleep schedule with a newborn. Infants often struggle with sleep due to hunger, diaper changes, and fussiness, causing new parents to lose precious rest during the night. To help you navigate this challenging time, we’ve compiled a list of tips and must-have baby sleep products, as tested and approved by the BestReviews Testing Lab, that can significantly improve your baby’s sleep.
Understanding Sleep in Newborns
The Cleveland Clinic recommends that babies receive 11 to 17 hours of sleep within a 24-hour period, with their sleep patterns distributed between day and night. Most infants won’t sleep through the night until they are at least six months old. It’s essential to note that newborns require ample sleep to support their rapid mental and physical growth. However, if you suspect your baby is sleeping excessively, consult your pediatrician for guidance.
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation
Babies often lack a strict sleep schedule, which can lead to sleep disturbances for new parents. Prolonged sleep deprivation can have adverse effects on parents. According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep deprivation can manifest with symptoms such as:
Difficulty in learning, concentrating, and reacting.
Challenges in understanding other people’s emotions and responses.
Feelings of frustration, irritability, or anxiety in social situations.
Additionally, a study from the Journal of Family Psychology in 2019 revealed that mothers with irregular sleep schedules were more likely to experience elevated stress levels and exhibit less positive parenting.
Sleep is crucial for both the newborn and parents. Therefore, it is essential for parents to explore ways to improve their baby’s sleep and their own.
Tips for Better Sleep Hygiene for New Parents
New parents can implement these tips from the Mayo Clinic to ensure a more restful night’s sleep:
Establish a Soothing Bedtime Routine: Create a calming environment for your baby’s bedtime, free from noise and with dim lighting.
Ensure Drowsiness: Put your baby to bed when they are drowsy but not fully awake, and remember to place them on their back to sleep.
Allow Time for Calming Down: Babies may be a bit fussy before bedtime. Give them some time to settle down before attempting to soothe them to sleep.
Try a Pacifier: If your newborn struggles to settle, a pacifier can be a useful aid.
Must-Have Baby Sleep Products
Here are some of the must-have baby sleep products recommended by the BestReviews Testing Lab:
Halo DreamWave Baby Crib Mattress: This breathable, two-sided mattress promotes sound sleep for infants and is waterproof for easy cleaning. It’s designed to grow with your child from infancy to toddlerhood.
Halo 100% Cotton Sleepsack Swaddle: This swaddle wrap with a three-way design ensures your baby stays comfortable and secure. It’s made of soft, durable fabric and facilitates snug swaddling.
Halo SleepSure Smart Baby Monitor: This monitor tracks your baby’s heart rate, skin temperature, and movement, with a user-friendly app for real-time alerts. It securely attaches to most babies’ calves for ease of use.
Halo BassiNest Soothing Swivel Sleeper 3.0: This bassinet features a swivel design for easy access and offers two vibration levels and four calming sounds to encourage deep sleep. It’s lightweight and portable.
Ergobaby Sleeping Bag On The Move: Keep your baby warm with this sleeping bag suitable for babies up to six months. It’s made of soft, breathable, 100% cotton and can be converted for walking safely.
Ergobaby Swaddle Wrap: Ensure your baby’s comfort with this swaddle wrap made of soft, durable, and washable fabric. It allows for secure swaddling around the baby’s hips.
Ready Rocker Portable Rocking Chair: Transform any seat into a rocking chair with this portable rocker. It’s efficient for travel and provides an affordable alternative to traditional rocking chairs.
Parenthood is a rewarding journey, and ensuring both you and your baby get adequate rest is crucial. With these recommended products and sleep hygiene tips, you can make this transition smoother for your family.
