Why does My Baby Cry at Night? Cultural Ways to Calm a Crying Baby

If you’re wondering, “Why does my baby cry at night?", you’re not alone. Many parents struggle with nighttime crying, which can be caused by hunger, discomfort, overstimulation, or even colic. Whether your newborn is fussy at night but not during the day or your 2-year-old is crying at night for no reason, understanding the root cause can help you soothe them effectively.

Key Takeaways:

• Babies cry and fuss at night for various reasons, including hunger, discomfort, overstimulation, developmental milestones and others as mentioned in this article.
• Their are Regional and Cultural Techniques currently being used around the world that are mentioned in this article to stop baby crying
• Understanding your baby’s cues and maintaining a calming bedtime routine can improve sleep patterns.
• Creating a sleep-friendly environment, using gentle soothing techniques, and ensuring proper nutrition can help reduce nighttime fussiness.
• If your baby’s fussiness seems excessive, persistent, or unusual, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any medical concerns.

Understanding Nighttime Fussiness in Babies:

Nighttime fussiness is a common challenge for parents, especially in the early months. While crying is a baby’s primary way of communicating needs, excessive fussiness at night can leave parents exhausted and frustrated. The good news? There are clear reasons behind this behavior—and effective ways to address it.

Why Is My Baby So Fussy at Night?

1. Hunger – Babies, especially newborns, have small stomachs and need frequent feedings. If your baby is waking up crying, they might just be hungry.
2. Dirty Diaper – A wet or soiled diaper can cause discomfort, making it difficult for your baby to settle.
3. Overtiredness – Contrary to what you might expect, an overtired baby has a harder time falling and staying asleep. Look for sleepy cues like rubbing eyes, yawning, or fussing before bedtime.
4. Overstimulation or Under stimulation – Too much activity before bedtime can leave your baby feeling overwhelmed. On the other hand, a lack of engagement during the day can make it harder for them to fall asleep at night.
5. Digestive Discomfort – Gas, acid reflux, or constipation can make babies uncomfortable and fussy, especially after feedings.
6. Colic – Colic is characterized by intense, inconsolable crying for extended periods, usually occurring at the same time every day.
7. Teething Pain – Babies can start teething as early as 3–4 months, and sore gums may disrupt sleep.
8. Separation Anxiety – Around 6–9 months, babies develop stronger attachments and may cry when they sense you are not nearby.
9. Temperature Discomfort – Babies are sensitive to being too hot or too cold. Check if your baby’s clothing and sleep environment are appropriate for comfort and safety.
10. Illness – If fussiness is accompanied by fever, congestion, ear pulling, or unusual lethargy, consult a pediatrician.

Cultural & Regional Remedies to Stop Baby Crying at Night:

Babies around the world cry at night, and different cultures have developed unique remedies to comfort them. These time-tested methods often rely on natural techniques, herbal solutions, and deep-rooted traditions passed down through generations.

1. India – Ayurvedic & Warm Oil Massage

In India, parents use Ayurvedic massages to calm a fussy baby. They gently massage the baby’s body with warm coconut or mustard oil infused with herbs like ashwagandha and brahmi. This promotes better sleep, reduces gas, and improves blood circulation.

💡 Tip: Try massaging your baby before bedtime using lukewarm coconut oil in circular motions for a calming effect.

2. China – Tui Na Massage & Herbal Teas

In traditional Chinese medicine, Tui Na massage is used to relax infants. Light acupressure on specific meridian points can ease colic and help babies sleep peacefully. Some Chinese families also use mild herbal teas like chamomile or licorice root (in very diluted form) to reduce restlessness.

💡 Tip: Rubbing a baby’s feet and tummy in gentle, clockwise motions can help improve digestion and soothe discomfort.

3. Japan – “Skinship” & Bathing Rituals

Japanese culture emphasizes “skinship”, the strong physical bond between a baby and parent. Parents often co-sleep with their infants, believing it provides warmth and security. A warm evening bath with herbs like yomogi (Japanese mugwort) is also a common practice to relax babies before bedtime.

💡 Tip: A warm, herbal bath followed by holding your baby close can help them feel safe and sleep longer.

4. Middle East – Swaddling & Rocking Techniques

In many Middle Eastern countries, swaddling is a deeply rooted tradition. Babies are wrapped in soft, breathable cloth to mimic the warmth of the womb. Parents also use rocking in a hammock (Mahd) to lull babies to sleep gently.

💡 Tip: Use a lightweight cotton swaddle and a rhythmic rocking motion to calm your baby quickly.

5. Africa – Babywearing & Singing Lullabies

African mothers often carry their babies throughout the day using a kanga (a cloth wrap). This constant body contact keeps the baby calm and helps regulate their breathing and heartbeat. Singing traditional lullabies while gently patting the baby’s back is another powerful sleep-inducing technique.

💡 Tip: If your baby is restless, try wearing them in a baby carrier and humming a soothing tune.

6. Latin America – Chamomile Tea & Warm Wraps

Many Latin American families rely on chamomile (manzanilla) tea to soothe colicky babies. While the baby doesn’t directly consume it, some mothers rub a cooled chamomile tea bag on the baby’s tummy or soak a soft cloth in chamomile tea and place it over their belly.

💡 Tip: A warm chamomile compress on the baby’s stomach can ease gas and promote relaxation.

7. Europe – White Noise & Gentle Bouncing

European parents often use white noise machines to mimic womb sounds and help babies sleep. In Nordic countries, babies are even taken for outdoor naps in cold weather, believing fresh air helps them sleep better.

💡 Tip: Playing white noise or nature sounds can recreate the comforting environment of the womb.

Read More: Birth Traditions

How to Calm a Fussy Baby at Night? As Doctors Recommend

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

   • Follow a predictable pattern of feeding, bathing, and quiet time before bed.
   • Try dimming the lights, playing soft lullabies, or reading a short bedtime story.

2. Optimize the Sleep Environment

   • Keep the room dark and quiet (a white noise machine can help block distractions).
   • Maintain a comfortable temperature (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
   • Use a firm, flat crib mattress with no loose blankets or stuffed animals.

3. Use Gentle Soothing Techniques

   • Swaddle newborns for a sense of security.
   • Try rocking, bouncing, or gentle pats to calm your baby.
   • Use a pacifier if your baby finds comfort in sucking.

4. Address Feeding and Digestive Discomfort

   • Feed your baby on demand to prevent hunger-related fussiness.
   • Burp your baby after feedings to release trapped gas.
   • If your baby struggles with reflux, hold them upright for 20–30 minutes after feeding.

5. Recognize and Respond to Sleep Cues Early

   • Put your baby down drowsy but awake to encourage self-soothing.
   • Avoid letting your baby become overtired, which can lead to more crying and difficulty settling.

6. Try Motion and Sound

   • A rocking chair, baby swing, or gentle stroller ride can work wonders.
   • Soft, rhythmic sounds like white noise, a heartbeat simulation, or lullabies can be soothing.

7. Give Your Baby Time to Self-Soothe

   • As your baby grows, encourage independent sleep by waiting a minute before rushing in at every whimper.
   • Gradually increase the time before responding to promote longer sleep stretches.

8. Comfort Without Overstimulating

   • If your baby wakes up at night, use a calm, quiet voice.
   • Avoid turning on bright lights or engaging in active play.

When Do Babies Stop Crying at Night?

Every baby is different, but most start sleeping longer stretches at night by:

• 6–8 weeks: Some babies begin sleeping for 4–6 hours at a time.
• 3–4 months: Sleep patterns start stabilizing, with longer night sleeps.
• 6 months: Many babies can sleep 6–8 hours without waking for feedings.
• 8–12 months: Most babies sleep through the night, though occasional disruptions (teething, illness, growth spurts) can still occur.

If your baby’s fussiness persists beyond normal developmental milestones, consider discussing sleep training methods with your pediatrician.

When to Call Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider

Although nighttime fussiness is common, contact your doctor if:

• Your baby cries inconsolably for hours.
• Fussiness is accompanied by fever, rash, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
• Your baby isn’t feeding well or shows signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dry lips, or sunken fontanelle).
• Your gut instinct tells you something isn’t right.

Final Thoughts

Nighttime crying is a common challenge for parents, but with proper sleep routines, feeding schedules, and a comfortable environment, you can reduce fussiness and help your baby sleep better. Whether your baby is crying at night for no reason or experiencing separation anxiety, patience and consistency are key to a peaceful night for both you and your little one.

For more expert tips on baby sleep and development, stay informed and trust your parenting instincts—you’ve got this!