How to Get Your Baby to Sleep in a Crib: A Comprehensive Guide for All Ages

Your baby’s sleep is more than just a nightly routine—it’s a vital part of their growth and well-being, and one of the many ways you nurture their thriving little life. At dadada, we know how meaningful these moments are, and we’re here to help you create a safe, calming, and loving space for your child to rest.

Moving your baby to a crib can feel like a big leap, but it’s also an exciting milestone—an opportunity to build healthy sleep habits that support your baby’s growth while giving you a well-deserved moment of rest. With thoughtful preparation and patience, this transition can be as gentle and reassuring as the love you pour into your parenting journey.

Below, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process with confidence, whether you’re transitioning from co-sleeping, a bassinet, or simply introducing your baby to a crib for the first time. You’ve got this—and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way.

How Do I Get My Newborn to Sleep in a Crib?

Getting a newborn to sleep in a crib is one of those tasks that looks easy on paper but rarely feels that way in practice. It’s essential for your baby’s health and safety—and your sanity—but it takes patience, consistency, and a bit of strategy. 

Below, you’ll find key approaches to help make it happen.

Creating a Safe Sleep Environment

First things first: safety is non-negotiable. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) outlines clear recommendations: always place the baby on their back for sleep, ensure the crib has a firm and flat mattress, and keep it completely bare—no soft toys, loose blankets, or bumpers. Yes, it might look plain, but this isn’t about aesthetics.

A safe crib environment significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related hazards. Aim for a room temperature between 68–72°F (20–22°C). Too hot or too cold, and your baby’s discomfort will keep everyone awake.

Establishing a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Babies thrive on routine, even if they’re too young to realize it. A predictable bedtime sequence signals to their little bodies that sleep is coming. Think simple and repeatable: dimming the lights, a quick bath, a fresh diaper, feeding, and a quiet lullaby or story. 

Research from the journal Sleep backs this up, linking consistent bedtime routines to improved sleep outcomes in children. Whatever steps you choose, the key is sticking to them every night. Consistency here isn’t optional; it’s critical.

Putting Baby Down Drowsy but Awake

This might be the trickiest step but also one of the most important. The idea is to place your baby in the crib when they’re sleepy but not fully asleep. Look for signs like yawning, eye rubbing, or a general decrease in activity. 

Catch them at this moment and get them into the crib. Why? Because it helps them learn to fall asleep on their own. If you always rock or feed them to sleep completely, they might struggle to self-soothe when they wake during the night. And let’s be honest—they will wake.

Addressing Frequent Night Wakings

Night wakings are just part of life with a newborn. Most babies wake every 2–3 hours to feed, especially in the early weeks. Some studies, like one in the journal Pediatrics, show that even at six months, a large percentage of infants aren’t sleeping through the night. When these wake-ups happen, keep things calm and efficient. 

Change diapers only if necessary, keep the lights dim, and avoid engaging with the baby too much. This isn’t playtime—it’s survival mode. Feed them, soothe them, and place them back in the crib promptly.

Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns

If you’ve ever wondered why newborn sleep feels so chaotic, it’s because it is. Babies sleep 14–17 hours a day, but it’s scattered in short bursts of 2–4 hours. They cycle between active (REM) sleep and quiet (non-REM) sleep. Around 3–4 months, their sleep patterns become a little more structured, but until then, it’s all about working with their natural rhythms.

Patience and Adjustments

It’s important to remember that every baby is different. Some adjust to crib sleeping relatively easily, while others will fight it tooth and nail. That’s normal. Stay patient, stick to your plan, and don’t be afraid to adjust as needed. If you’re worried something isn’t quite right, consult your pediatrician—they’re there to guide you through the tough spots.

Helping Your Baby Nap in the Crib

Getting a baby to nap in the crib isn’t just about better sleep; it’s about keeping your sanity intact. Naps are as much about their development as they are about your survival.

Whether your baby’s a newborn, an infant, or teetering into toddler territory, the approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s trial and error, with a healthy dose of patience and persistence.

Creating a Conducive Nap Environment

First, set the stage. Babies need a space that screams, "this is where I sleep," not "this is where I party." The room should be dark—blackout curtains work wonders here.

The temperature?

Keep it cool but cozy, ideally between 68-72°F. White noise can save the day (or nap), drowning out those random barks, honks, and whatever else might snap them awake.

And the crib? Empty. No toys, no loose blankets. Just a firm mattress and a fitted sheet. Simple and distraction-free is the goal.

Establishing Age-Appropriate Nap Routines

Nap routines need to grow with your baby. Here’s the rundown

• Newborns (0-3 months): These tiny humans nap a lot—frequently, and for short bursts. Don’t fight their natural cycles; follow their lead. They’ll fall asleep when they’re ready (and probably when you’re not).
• Infants (4-12 months): This is where a pre-nap routine becomes your best friend. A short, predictable sequence of events—like a quick book or a soothing song—signals it’s time to snooze. Two to three naps daily is the sweet spot, adding up to 2-4 hours total.
• Toddlers (1-3 years): Now it’s down to one or two naps a day, depending on their age and energy levels. Whatever you do, keep naptime consistent. Same time, same place, every day.

Dealing with Short Naps

Short naps are the bane of a parent’s existence. Your baby wakes up, refreshed; you, not so much. To stretch those naps, timing is everything. Avoid overtiredness by getting the wake windows right—too much time awake, and they’ll fight sleep like it owes them money. 

The “crib hour” trick can help too: leave them in the crib for at least an hour, even if they wake early. Over time, this teaches them to lengthen their naps. If all else fails, sleep training might be the ticket, though it’s not for everyone—and that’s okay.

Transitioning from Contact Naps to Crib Naps

If your baby is used to napping on you (adorable, but exhausting), the shift to crib naps might feel like a betrayal. Start small. Begin with one nap a day in the crib, sticking to your pre-nap routine to keep things predictable. Gradually reduce the amount of physical contact as they fall asleep—less rocking, fewer snuggles. 

The goal is to get them in the crib while they’re drowsy but still awake.

Consistency is the golden rule, but every baby is different. Some will take to crib naps with a shrug, while others will fight it tooth and nail. Stick with it. You’ll get there—and so will they.

How to Deal with Common Crib Sleep Problems

Sleep struggles don’t play favorites—they hit kids at every age. From newborns just trying to figure out day and night to toddlers who suddenly fear the dark, it’s a shared battle for parents.

The good news?

Every phase has its fixes.

Newborn Sleep Challenges

Newborns are all over the place because their internal clocks haven’t caught up yet. Exposing them to natural daylight during waking hours and keeping nights pitch-black can help reset their rhythms.

Then there’s the Moro reflex, where they startle themselves awake. Swaddling usually works to keep those flailing limbs in check—but once they start rolling (around four months), it’s time to ditch the swaddle.

Infant Sleep Issues

Sleep regressions? 

Expect them at 4 months, 8-10 months, and again around 12 months. These aren’t random—they show up when babies hit big developmental leaps. Suddenly, your great sleeper is waking up like clockwork.

Throw teething into the mix, and it’s no wonder sleep gets messy. Over 80% of kids deal with teething-related sleep disruptions. Teething toys or a pediatrician-approved pain reliever can take the edge off.

Toddler Sleep Problems

Toddlers resist bedtime like it’s their job. Independence, separation anxiety—it all hits hard. A steady bedtime routine is your best shot at wrangling some order.

And those nighttime fears?

They’re real for your little one. A night light, a favorite stuffed animal, and a reassuring voice can work wonders.

Solutions for All Ages

Consistency. That’s the magic word. Stick to regular bedtimes, avoid screens before bed, and create a calm vibe leading up to sleep. Teach them to fall asleep on their own by putting them down drowsy but awake. It’s not an instant fix, but it helps cut down on night wakings.

If sleep problems persist, or you sense there’s more going on, don’t guess—call the pediatrician. Sometimes, there’s a deeper issue that needs attention.

Managing Night Wakings and Crib Crying

Crying isn’t just noise—it’s how babies communicate. Figuring out what they’re saying and how to respond depends entirely on their age.

Assessing Crying Causes

• Newborns (0-3 months): It’s usually hunger. Sometimes a dirty diaper. Or they’re overtired. Maybe they just want to be held. They’re simple in their complexity.
• Older Infants (4-12 months): Teething is a big one. So is separation anxiety, overstimulation, or just plain discomfort from who-knows-what.
• Toddlers (1-3 years): Frustration leads the pack—whether it’s not getting what they want or just not being able to tell you. Testing boundaries and nighttime fears run close behind.

Age-Appropriate Soothing Techniques

• Newborns: Swaddle them snug, let white noise drown out the chaos, and rock them gently. Feed them if needed. Simple rhythms work best.
• Older Infants: A pacifier might help. Or a favorite blanket. Distraction can work too, but a steady bedtime routine is your real weapon here.
• Toddlers: Talk them through it. Offer a choice, even if it’s just "this blanket or that one." A calm-down corner with something soothing can be a lifesaver. Consistency matters more than anything.

Self-Soothing vs. Intervention

With newborns, jump in—they’re not ready to self-soothe. Older babies? Give them a moment. Let them try before stepping in. Toddlers? Encourage them to handle it with your support, not your constant presence.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety

This peaks around 10-18 months. Keep goodbyes short and sweet—don’t drag it out. Give them something comforting, and always, always come back when you say you will. They’ll notice if you don’t.

Gradual Sleep Training Methods

If they’re six months or older, sleep training might help. Make a routine. Put them down drowsy, not fully asleep. Use a "check and console" method—spacing out your checks as you go. Stick to it for at least a week or two.

Every baby is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Adjust to what works, but stay consistent—it’s the only constant they need.

Why Won't My Baby Sleep in the Crib?

Crib resistance is common. Babies fight it for all sorts of reasons—age, environment, developmental shifts. Figuring out why helps, but let’s face it: sleep challenges are rarely straightforward.

Common Reasons for Crib Resistance

• Newborns (0-3 months): The startle reflex (that sudden flail of limbs) doesn’t help. They’re wired to prefer closeness—your chest, your warmth—not a crib. And transitioning from the snug, muffled comfort of the womb to an open crib? That’s a big adjustment.
• Infants (4-12 months): Separation anxiety peaks between 6 and 8 months. Add sleep regressions (at 4, 8, and 12 months) and newfound mobility (rolling, sitting, crawling), and you’ve got a recipe for disrupted nights.
• Toddlers (1-3 years): This is when independence rears its head. Bedtime battles, nighttime fears, or transitioning from a crib to a bed—it’s all part of their quest to test limits and push boundaries.

Environmental Factors

The room matters. Too hot or too cold? Forget it. Babies like things steady—68-72°F is the sweet spot. 

Noise helps or hurts; white noise can drown out the chaos of a barking dog or a car alarm.

Light is the enemy of melatonin. Darkness wins.

And the crib?

Firm mattress, tight sheet, no clutter. Minimal distractions.

Developmental Milestones

Every new skill messes with sleep. Rolling (3-4 months). Sitting up (6-7 months). Crawling (7-10 months). Standing (9-12 months). They learn something new, and suddenly sleep is the last thing on their minds.

Addressing Comfort and Security

Comfort matters. For newborns, swaddling helps contain that startle reflex—until they start rolling, then it’s a no-go. Older babies might benefit from a transitional object, like a lovey, but wait until after 12 months for safety. 

Consistency is everything: same routine, same cues, same everything. And if they rely on you to fall asleep, slowly, and I mean slowly, step back.

Crib sleeping takes time. It’s frustrating. It’s exhausting. But with a little patience and the right adjustments, they’ll get there. Eventually.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

When it comes to sleep, no two babies are the same. Age, personality, and unique circumstances shape how they adapt to crib sleeping. From preemies to multiples, or toddlers with special needs, each situation calls for its own strategy. 

Here’s what to know.

Premature Babies and Crib Sleep

For preemies, sleep can be a hurdle. Restlessness and breathing problems aren’t uncommon and make crib transitions even trickier. A study in Pediatrics found preterm babies often face more night-time challenges than full-term peers. 

The best plan? 

Work with your pediatrician and ease into crib sleeping gradually.

Twins or Multiples Sharing a Crib

Twins bring twice the joy—and a few added complexities. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises separate cribs to reduce SIDS risks, but some parents opt to co-bed in the beginning. 

If so, place them "feet to foot," with their feet at opposite ends of the crib to keep them safe and comfortable.

Transitioning from Co-sleeping to Crib

Switching from co-sleeping to a crib can feel like an uphill climb, especially with older babies or toddlers. 

A slow approach usually works best: start with naps in the crib or use a bedside co-sleeper as a stepping stone. 

Whatever the method, consistency and an unwavering bedtime routine are your lifelines.

Sleep Issues in Babies with Special Needs

For babies with special needs, sleep often requires extra care. Children on the autism spectrum, for example, may benefit from routines that reduce sensory overload. 

Visual schedules can help prepare them for bedtime, and in some cases, melatonin therapy—under a doctor’s supervision—might make a difference.

Adapting Sleep Strategies for Different Temperaments

Not every baby approaches sleep the same way. Temperament shapes everything. Sensitive or "difficult" babies—those prone to fussing or overstimulation—often need slower, more gradual transitions. 

Extroverted or easygoing babies may adapt more quickly to changes in their sleep environment. Understanding who your baby is can guide your approach.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but finding what works for your child is worth the effort.

When and How to Transition Your Baby to Crib Sleep

Crib transitions are a big deal, for you and your baby. Somewhere between 3 and 6 months is usually the sweet spot, though every baby’s different. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests room-sharing for at least the first 6 months—it’s about lowering SIDS risks—but eventually, the crib takes over.

Safe Sleep Guidelines

No matter the age, the basics don’t change. Place your baby on their back. Use a firm, flat mattress—nothing soft, nothing loose, no stuffed animals, no pillows. Keep the room comfortable, ideally between 68-72°F. 

Safety isn’t negotiable here.

Transitioning from Bassinet to Crib

Most babies hit their bassinet’s limit by 3 to 5 months. Watch for clues: they’re rolling, sitting, or just seem cramped. If they’re exceeding weight limits, that’s your sign to move. 

Start slow. 

Try naps in the crib first. Familiarity helps, so use the same sheets they’re used to. Stick to your bedtime routine—it’s your anchor in all this change.

Moving from Co-Sleeping to Crib

Co-sleeping adds a layer of challenge, especially with older babies. The trick is gradual shifts. Begin with naps in the crib. If needed, keep the crib near your bed for a while. Night by night, extend the time they spend there until it becomes the norm.

Signs of Readiness for Crib Sleep

Some newborns are fine in a crib from day one. For others, readiness shows later—around 3 to 6 months when they outgrow the bassinet and start moving more. Older babies who can self-soothe or have fewer night wakings are ready too.

Creating Positive Crib Associations

The crib shouldn’t feel like a cage. Let them play near or in it during the day. If they’re over 12 months, introduce a comfort object like a lovey. A calming bedtime routine sets the stage. Keep it safe, keep it familiar, keep it theirs.

When to Seek Professional Help for Crib Sleep Issues

Sometimes, crib sleep problems go beyond the usual frustrations. If certain patterns or behaviors show up and stick around, it might be time to call in a professional. Knowing the red flags can help.

• Newborns: Struggling to breathe, constant fussing that won’t settle, or being unable to sleep flat—these aren’t normal and shouldn’t be ignored.

• Infants: If night wakings are still frequent past six months or your baby seems overly sleepy during the day, there could be an underlying issue.

• Toddlers: Bedtime battles, recurring nighttime fears, or behaviors like sleepwalking point to something that might need more than a bedtime routine tweak.

Help comes in many forms. Board-certified sleep medicine doctors, pediatric sleep consultants, or specialists in behavioral sleep medicine all bring different tools to the table. What they offer depends on the problem.

A pediatric sleep consultation digs deep—a detailed sleep history, physical exams, maybe even sleep studies if needed. The result is a plan, tailored to your child. It balances responsive parenting with structured sleep strategies, aiming to meet their emotional needs while sorting out the sleepless nights.

Getting Your Baby to Sleep in the Crib: Final Thoughts

Helping your baby sleep in a crib is a process. Sometimes messy, often exhausting, but entirely doable with a mix of patience and consistency. No one plan fits all—babies are their own little mysteries. What works for one may fail spectacularly for another.

Focus first on safety: a bare crib, firm mattress, and proper temperature. Routines matter just as much, if not more. They provide the stability babies crave, even if they don’t know it yet. And as your baby grows, their needs shift. Pay attention, adjust, repeat.

If you’ve tried it all and sleep problems still feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out. A pediatrician or sleep specialist can help connect the dots and figure out what’s missing. Most babies can—and do—learn to love their cribs. It just takes time.