It can be troubling as a new parent to try to put your baby to sleep in their crib only to have them wake up fussy and wailing. Even more troubling is when the baby sleeps in the car seat but not in a crib. Your baby may feel more at ease in the warm, cozy setting of a car seat. As a result, they might feel more secure and supported in this position. Your baby may also find it simpler to fall asleep due to the relaxing effects of the car’s motion. However, napping in a car seat for a lengthy amount of time is not safe.
5 things to do if your baby sleeps in the car seat but not in a crib
1. Adjust the crib
To make your baby’s crib more inviting and comfy for them to sleep in, you must find ways to adjust it. Make sure the crib is placed in a secure area that is relaxing and free from cold or sources of heat. The sheets should fit tightly without any loose ends and the mattress should be firm. Adding more comfort and coziness by covering the mattress with a soft, breathable blanket is also an option. To help your little one feel at ease in their crib, you can also include a familiar object from their car seat.
2. Use a wedge pillow or rolled-up towel
Specifically made pillows with a triangular shape are known as wedge pillows. It is positioned beneath the baby’s head, raising it slightly above the level of the body. Another option is to place a towel that has been wrapped up below the crib sheet. The towel is rolled up and positioned with a little tilt underneath the sheet. By elevating the baby’s head, you can make sure your little one is comfortable while resting. Additionally, it simulates the raised position of a car seat so your baby won’t fuss.
3. Use white noise
The gentle motion of the car can help a baby fall asleep while they are in their car seat. When your baby is placed in their crib, they might not experience the same motion and might start to fuss. White noise can be useful in situations like these. Similar to how a car’s motion can calm a newborn, white noise can do the same. It functions by muffling other sounds that the baby could find upsetting, like home noises or outside traffic. The fact that the sound resembles the sounds of the womb might comfort your little one and give them a sense of familiarity. Check out the Hatch rest baby sound machine on Amazon.
4. Stick to a bedtime routine
If a baby sleeps in the car seat but not in a crib, establish a regular bedtime routine. Your baby will start to associate these activities with sleep time if you develop a routine, which might make it simpler for them to fall asleep and remain asleep. Doing the same things in the same order every night is the key to creating an effective sleep routine. You can start with a relaxing bath, read a book, or play a lullaby.
5. Transition gradually
It’s important to remember that your baby might need some time to become used to sleeping in the crib so be persistent and patient. Do not forget that each baby is unique, and what may be effective for one may not be effective for another. Find what works best for you and your baby by being flexible and prepared to change your method as necessary. Your baby will eventually learn to sleep peacefully in their crib, allowing you both to have a good night’s rest. Consult your pediatrician or a sleep consultant for more advice if your little one is still having problems sleeping in the crib.
Conclusion
Because of the relaxing motion of the car, babies could enjoy sleeping in a car seat. Although it can seem simpler to let your baby sleep in a car seat, doing so for a lengthy amount of time is not safe for them. Above are things to do when a baby sleeps in the car seat but not in a crib. Additionally, keep in mind that every baby is different, so be patient when transitioning.
