How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Through the Night (Without Losing Your Mind)

Step 1: Understand What “Sleeping Through the Night” Really Means

Let’s set expectations:
For babies, “sleeping through the night” usually means 6–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep, not a full adult night. And every baby is different — some are unicorn sleepers, others take a little more coaching. Mine did 3-5 hour stretches for what felt like forever!

Step 2: Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Babies thrive on predictability. A calming, consistent bedtime routine tells their little bodies it’s time to wind down.

Try something like:

1. Bath
2. Diaper, PJs
3. Feeding (if still nursing or bottle-feeding)
4. Rocking or snuggles
5. Story or lullaby
6. Into crib drowsy but awake

Try to keep it under 30–45 minutes and repeat it every night, even on weekends.

Step 3: Try the Ferber Method (aka “Graduated Extinction”)

If you’re ready for a little more structure and don’t mind some (brief) crying, the Ferber Method might be your sleep-saving solution. Sleep training is hard, but worth it. Wait until they are old enough for this method (between 4-6 months). After almost a year of sleepless nights I finally broke down and did the Ferber method. I kid you not after three nights of staying firm he was sleeping through the night!

How it works:

• You put baby in the crib awake but drowsy after your bedtime routine.
• If they cry, you wait a set amount of time before going in (e.g., 3 minutes, then 5, then 10).
• When you check in, keep it brief and calm — don’t pick them up. Just reassure with a quiet voice or a pat.
• Gradually increase the wait time each night. The book says all the way to 20 minutes. I never went longer than 10. Follow what feels right for you!

This method usually takes 3–7 nights, and while the crying part is hard, many parents see results fast. Trust your gut — if it feels right for your family, it might be worth trying.

Step 4: Consider Natural Sleep Supplements (With Your Pediatrician’s OK)

Sometimes, babies need a little support regulating their sleep-wake cycles — especially during sleep regressions or teething.

A few common gentle supplements parents ask their pediatricians about:

• Magnesium lotion: Some parents use magnesium-rich lotions for relaxation before bed (check for baby-safe formulas).
• Chamomile or gripe water: Can help soothe fussy tummies and promote calmness (check ingredients carefully).
• Probiotics: For babies with tummy issues, probiotics might help ease discomfort that interrupts sleep.

I personally do magnesium on his feet about 20 minutes before bed, and right before lays down he takes Mommy’s Bliss Bedtime Drops. These have been a game. Changer. He is calm and sleeps longer after taking this.

Always check with your pediatrician before giving your baby anything, even natural remedies.

Step 5: Check Your Sleep Environment

Your baby’s sleep environment should be:

• Cool (68–72°F) and dark (blackout curtains are magic)
• White noise machine: Helps drown out household sounds and mimic the womb
• Firm mattress with a fitted sheet only (no blankets or toys under 1 year)

Bonus: Tips for You During the Process

• You’re not failing — you’re teaching a skill.
• It’s okay to take breaks and try again.
• Consistency > perfection.
• Ask for help when you need it. You’re doing great

Final Thoughts

Getting your baby to sleep through the night isn’t one-size-fits-all, but with a mix of routine, consistency, and gentle guidance (like the Ferber Method or safe supplements), it can happen — and when it does, you’ll want to throw yourself a parade.

Hang in there, mama. You’ve got this — and sleep is on the horizon.