Should Newborns Sleep In Crib During The Day? (Explained)

“Should newborns sleep in a crib during the daytime naps?” That’s the million-dollar question for us moms, right?

Let’s face it, figuring out the best place for your bundle of joy to catch some Z’s during the day can feel a bit like solving a puzzle.

But don’t worry, I’ve been down this road a few times! In this article, we’re going to explore the ins and outs of daytime crib napping for the little ones.

From understanding their quirky sleep patterns to ensuring their safety (and let’s be honest, our peace of mind!), we’ll cover it all.

So, whether you’re cradling your first baby or you’re a seasoned pro in the parenting arena, let’s tackle this together and make those daytime snoozes a breeze!

Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns

Newborns often have erratic sleep patterns, with their tiny internal clocks not yet distinguishing between day and night.

In the daytime, they typically sleep in short bursts of 2 to 4 hours.

This fragmented sleep schedule is normal, as their primary need is frequent feeding, whether breastfed or formula-fed.

As they grow, particularly by the 3-6 month mark, their sleep starts to consolidate, gradually leading to longer stretches of sleep at night and more predictable naps during the day.

Understanding this aspect of newborn sleep can help parents create a comforting daytime environment that supports these brief but essential periods of rest.

Newborn sleeping in the crib during the day

Can a Newborn Sleep in the Crib During the Day?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines, it’s perfectly fine for newborns to sleep in their cribs during daytime naps.

This aligns with the AAP’s recommendations for safe sleep environments, which can help reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related infant deaths.

When using a crib for your newborn’s daytime naps, supervision is key.

It’s important to check on them regularly to ensure they’re sleeping safely.

Additionally, ensuring that the crib meets all safety standards is crucial.

This includes a firm mattress, a fitted sheet, and the avoidance of loose bedding or soft toys in the crib, which could pose a risk.

Crib sleeping, both during the night and for daytime naps, can also help establish a good sleep routine for your newborn.

It provides them with a consistent, safe, and comfortable environment that is solely associated with sleep, which can be beneficial for their overall sleep quality and pattern development.

Supervision is super important

Supervising your newborn during daytime crib naps is not just important, it’s essential.

I know, as a mom, there’s always a million things to do and it can be tempting to whisk away to finish chores while your baby sleeps peacefully.

But, remember, in these early months, your baby needs you close by.

It’s not just about ensuring they’re comfortable – it’s a crucial safety net against risks like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Being bound to your baby’s side may seem demanding at first, but it’s a small, vital step in their journey towards a regular sleep schedule.

So, as your little one drifts off in their crib, stay nearby, keep a watchful eye, and cherish these quiet moments of togetherness.

Your presence makes all the difference in these precious early months.

Advantages of using a crib for newborn daytime sleep.

Using a crib for newborn daytime naps offers key advantages:

Safety: Cribs are designed for safety, significantly reducing the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related dangers with their enclosed environment and adherence to strict safety standards.

Consistency and Routine: Having a newborn sleep in the crib for both day and night helps establish a consistent sleep environment, crucial for developing healthy sleep habits.

Sleep Association: Regular crib use helps newborns associate it with sleep, aiding in long-term sleep training and good sleep hygiene.

Parental Convenience: While the baby sleeps safely in the crib, parents get some much-needed time for rest or other tasks.

Ease of Monitoring: Cribs, placed in a fixed location, allow for easier and regular monitoring of the baby’s sleep without disturbances.

Comfort: Designed for comfort, cribs provide a cozy and tranquil environment for quality daytime sleep.

Long-term Use: A good crib is a cost-effective, long-term investment, often usable for several years and adaptable to a toddler bed.

Safety standards and guidelines for cribs

it’s crucial to be aware of the safety standards and guidelines for cribs to ensure the utmost safety for your newborn. Here are the key points:

Firm Mattress: Use a firm mattress that fits snugly in the crib without gaps.

Tight-Fitting Sheet: Only use a tight-fitting crib sheet made for the mattress size.

No Loose Bedding or Toys: Avoid loose bedding, pillows, bumper pads, and soft toys in the crib to reduce suffocation risks.

Safe Slats and Railings: Ensure crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart and the top rails are at least 26 inches above the mattress at its lowest setting.

Sturdy Construction: The crib should be stable with no missing or broken hardware.

Adjustable Mattress Height: Lower the mattress as your baby grows to prevent them from climbing out.

Avoid Drop-Side Rails: Drop-side cribs are unsafe and banned in the U.S.

Non-Toxic Paint: Check for lead-free and non-toxic paint.

Compliance with Standards: Ensure the crib meets CPSC and ASTM safety standards.

Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the crib for any damage or loose parts.

Preparing the Crib for Daytime Sleep

Here’s how to prepare your baby’s crib for the daytime naps:

Check Room Temperature:

First and foremost, ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature, not too hot or too cold, to reduce the risk of overheating.

Inspect the Crib:

Before placing your baby in the crib, check that it’s completely free of any items except for a firm mattress with a fitted sheet. There should be no toys, blankets, pillows, or loose bedding in the crib.

Swaddle Your Baby:

Gently swaddle your baby for comfort and security. Swaddling can soothe and help them feel snug, aiding in better sleep.

Place Baby in the Crib:

Once swaddled, carefully place your baby in the crib, ideally on their back, as recommended for safe sleep.

Ensure a Quiet and Calm Environment:

Keep the room peaceful to encourage sleep. Soft, steady background noise or white noise can be soothing, but avoid loud disruptions.

Dim Lighting:

Use soft, dim lighting in the room to create a sleep-inducing environment, bright enough for safety but subdued enough to encourage rest.

Safe Crib Placement:

Position the crib away from windows, blinds, and curtains to prevent drafts and eliminate any risks from cord entanglement.

Regular Supervision:

Regularly check on your baby while they nap, ensuring they remain safe and comfortable in their sleep environment.

Alternatives to Daytime Crib Sleeping

Letting a newborn to sleep in the crib during the daytime is good, but this is not the only option. You can try other things too as long as they are safe for the baby as per the AAP guidel i nes.

Bassinet:

A bassinet is a great alternative, especially for younger newborns. It’s smaller and cozier than a crib and can be easily moved around the house for close supervision.

Pack and Play:

A pack and play, or playard, can be a versatile option. It’s portable and often comes with a bassinet attachment, making it suitable for naps as well as playtime.

Baby Swing or Rocker:

Some babies find the gentle motion of a baby swing or rocker soothing for daytime naps. Ensure it’s used under supervision and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding weight limits and use duration.

Wearable Blankets or Sleep Sacks:

For babies who don’t like swaddling or are too old for it, wearable blankets or sleep sacks are safe alternatives that keep them warm without the risks associated with loose bedding.

Portable Crib:

A portable crib is similar to a standard crib but is foldable and movable, offering flexibility if you need to be in a different part of the house while the baby sleeps.

Moses Basket:

A Moses basket is a lightweight, portable basket that can be a cozy napping place for a newborn. Always place it on a stable, flat surface and never carry it with your baby inside.

Parent’s Arms or Baby Carrier:

Sometimes, nothing beats naps in a parent’s arms or a baby carrier, especially for soothing or bonding. However, it’s important to be cautious about baby’s positioning to keep their airways open.

Room Sharing:

Having the baby nap in the same room where you are can be a convenient alternative, using any safe sleep surface.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right sleep setup for your newborn, be it a crib or an alternative, is crucial for their safety and comfort.

Always prioritize safe sleep practices, keeping the sleep area clear and placing your baby on their back.

Whether you choose a crib, bassinet, or another option, what matters most is creating a secure and loving environment for your little one’s restful moments.

As you journey through these early stages, remember that each choice you make is shaping a healthy sleep routine for your baby.