Sleep and Colick: How to Get More Rest When Crying Won’t Quit

Having a colicky baby can feel like living in a sleepless storm. Just when you think things are calming down, the crying begins again—loud, intense, and seemingly without cause. For exhausted parents, one of the biggest challenges of colic is how it disrupts sleep for both baby and caregiver.

While colic is a temporary phase (most babies outgrow it by 3–4 months), the toll it takes on sleep can be overwhelming. The good news? There are strategies to help you soothe your colicky baby—and create an environment more conducive to sleep for everyone.

Here’s how to navigate the nights and reclaim a bit of rest in the middle of the chaos.

What Is Colic, Exactly?

Colic is defined as excessive crying in an otherwise healthy baby, typically more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks. It often starts around 2 weeks of age, peaks at 6–8 weeks, and usually improves by 3–4 months.

Though its cause is still unclear, colic may be related to:

• Immature digestive or nervous systems

• Gas or reflux

• Overstimulation or sensitivity to the environment

• A baby's natural temperament

Regardless of the cause, the result is the same: a baby who cries frequently and struggles to settle or sleep.

Tips for Improving Sleep with a Colicky Baby

1. Use Soothing Motion

Gentle, rhythmic movement can work wonders for calming a colicky baby and encouraging sleep. Try:

• Rocking in a glider or rocking chair

• Babywearing and walking

• Bouncing on an exercise ball

• Using a baby swing (always supervised and not for overnight sleep)

• Car rides (if safe and practical)

Motion mimics the womb and helps calm an overstimulated nervous system.

2. Try White Noise

Colicky babies often respond well to white noise, which creates a consistent and soothing background sound. It can mask household noise and help babies focus on calming themselves.

Options include:

• A white noise machine

• A fan or sound app

• Shushing with your voice (long, soft “shhhhhh” sounds)

Aim for a low, steady sound similar to what a baby heard in the womb.

3. Establish a Soothing Bedtime Routine

Even colicky babies benefit from predictable routines. A short, calming bedtime routine helps signal the body that it’s time to sleep—even if they’re fussing.

Try this routine:

• Warm bath

• Infant massage

• Feeding

• Rocking or swaying

• Dim lights and white noise

Keep it simple and consistent every night.

4. Use Swaddling (If Age-Appropriate)

Swaddling helps babies feel secure and reduces the startle reflex, which can jolt them awake. For colicky infants, it can also provide comfort through gentle pressure.

Tips:

• Use a breathable, snug (but not tight) swaddle

• Stop swaddling once your baby starts showing signs of rolling over (around 2–4 months)

If your baby resists traditional swaddling, try a swaddle sack or transitional sleep garment.

5. Burp Often and Watch for Triggers

Gas and digestion issues can make colic worse. Help reduce discomfort by:

• Burping during and after feedings

• Keeping your baby upright for 20–30 minutes after feeding

• Monitoring for food sensitivities (especially if breastfeeding)

If your baby has reflux, your pediatrician may recommend specific feeding techniques or medications.

6. Try the “5 S’s” from Dr. Harvey Karp

These five soothing techniques are designed specifically to calm colicky babies and promote sleep:

1. Swaddle

2. Side or stomach position (only for calming while supervised, never for sleep)

3. Shush

4. Swing (gentle rocking or movement)

5. Suck (pacifier or feeding if appropriate)

Combining these techniques often works better than using just one.

7. Use Safe Sleep Habits

Even during colic, safety is essential. Always:

• Put baby to sleep on their back

• Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet

• Keep the sleep area free of pillows, blankets, toys, and bumpers

• Avoid letting baby sleep in a car seat, swing, or bouncer unsupervised

If you’re desperate for sleep, ask your pediatrician about safe baby sleep options and when it’s okay to try supervised contact naps or shared sleep in a bassinet next to your bed.

🧠 Don’t Forget About Your Sleep

Colic is hard on parents, too. Sleep deprivation can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Make sure you:

• Trade off night shifts with a partner or trusted support person

• Nap when the baby naps, even during the day

• Accept help from friends or family

• Talk to your pediatrician if you feel overwhelmed—they may offer support or suggest additional resources

Conclusion 

The colic phase can feel endless when you're in it—but remember, it’s temporary. Most babies outgrow colic by 12 to 16 weeks. The intense crying will subside, and sleep will get better.

In the meantime, trust your instincts, lean on your support system, and know that you're not alone. You're doing your best in a challenging season—and better nights are ahead.

You’re not just surviving colic—you’re learning to soothe, love, and understand your baby in deeper ways. And that’s something to be proud of.