The crying goes on and on, you have fed, changed and rocked, and nothing seems to help. It can leave even the calmest parent feeling helpless. Learning how to soothe a crying baby starts with a quick check of common causes, then trying a few proven calming tricks. Here are ten to try, and what to do if the crying does not stop.
Quick answer: how to soothe a crying baby
- Check the basics: hunger, nappy, wind, temperature, tiredness.
- Recreate the womb: holding close, gentle movement and shushing sounds calm many babies.
- Try one technique at a time for a few minutes before switching.
- If you feel overwhelmed, put your baby down safely in the cot and take a short break.
Free printable: keep our Safe Sleep Checklist by the crib: eight quick checks for every nap and every night, based on AAP guidance.
Quick checklist of common causes
- hungry: see hunger cues
- wet or dirty nappy
- wind or tummy discomfort: see baby gas relief
- too hot or too cold
- overtired or overstimulated
- unwell, teething or in pain
10 calming tricks to try
- Hold your baby skin to skin against your chest.
- Swaddle a young baby who is not yet rolling, loosely at the hips.
- Gentle rocking or swaying, in your arms or a sling.
- Shushing or white noise close to the ear, softly.
- Offer a feed or a dummy for comfort sucking.
- Burp your baby or try gentle tummy massage.
- Hold your baby on their side or tummy across your arm while awake, then return them to their back for sleep.
- A warm bath, if your baby enjoys it.
- Go for a walk in the pram or carrier; fresh air and motion help many babies.
- Dim lights and quiet if your baby is overstimulated.
If the crying won’t stop
Some babies cry for long periods every day without a clear cause, often in the evening, peaking around 6 weeks. This may be colic. See the colic survival guide. If you feel frustrated or angry, put your baby on their back in a safe cot, leave the room for a few minutes and ask someone to help. Never shake a baby.
When to talk to your doctor
- a high-pitched or weak cry, or crying that is very different from usual
- fever, vomiting, poor feeding or fewer wet nappies
- crying with a bulging soft spot, breathing difficulty or unusual sleepiness: seek urgent help
- crying for more than 3 hours a day that worries you
- you are struggling to cope
Frequently asked questions
Can I spoil my baby by picking them up?
No. Young babies cannot be spoiled, and comforting them helps them feel secure.
Is it OK to let my baby cry for a few minutes?
If your baby is safe and fed, a few minutes of crying while you take a breather will not harm them.
When does crying get better?
Crying often peaks around 6 weeks and eases by 3 to 4 months.
Free printables: get our Safe Sleep Checklist, Feeding & Diaper Log and Hospital Bag Checklist, plus one short tip email a week. Join Babypino Weekly.
Sources
- NHS: Soothing a crying baby
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Calming Your Fussy Baby
- ICON: Babies cry, you can cope
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you are worried about your baby’s crying, contact your doctor.