Newborn Sleep Survival Guide: How to Get More Sleep in the First 3 Months
, by Snoo Rental, 3 min reading time
Surviving the newborn stage is tough—especially on little sleep. This guide shares practical tips to help new parents get more rest in the first 3 months, from creating a sleep-friendly environment to using smart tools like the Snoo. Learn how to navigate sleepless nights and enjoy more of those early baby snuggles.
Newborn Sleep Survival Guide: How to Get More Sleep in the First 3 Months
Bringing home a newborn is exciting, emotional, and… exhausting. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re running on very little sleep, wondering if you’ll ever feel rested again.
The good news? These sleepless nights don’t last forever—and there are proven ways to get a little more rest during those early weeks. This guide will walk you through how newborn sleep really works, practical tips for surviving the first 3 months, and how tools like the Snoo Smart Sleeper can help.
Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns
Before we jump into survival tips, it helps to know why newborns wake up so often:
- Newborns sleep 14–17 hours a day, but in short stretches (2–4 hours at a time).
- Their tiny tummies need frequent feeds—day and night.
- They don’t develop a true circadian rhythm until around 3 months, meaning they can’t tell day from night yet.
Takeaway: Night wakings are completely normal, but the right strategies can help your baby (and you) sleep longer stretches.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Your newborn’s sleep space can make a big difference. Follow these steps for safe, soothing sleep:
- Keep it dark and quiet – Dim lights signal bedtime; white noise can block sudden household sounds.
- Use a swaddle – Mimics the comfort of the womb and reduces startle reflexes.
- Maintain a comfortable temperature – Around 20–22°C (68–72°F) is ideal.
- Practice safe sleep – Always place your baby on their back, in a flat bassinet or crib with no loose blankets or toys.
Top Tips for Getting More Sleep as Parents
Even small changes to your routine can help you squeeze in extra rest:
- Sleep when the baby sleeps – Yes, the dishes can wait.
- Share night duties – Rotate feeds or diaper changes if you have a partner.
- Cluster feed in the evening – Giving a few extra feeds before bedtime can sometimes extend that first stretch of night sleep.
- Set realistic expectations – In the first few weeks, focus on survival, not schedules.
When to Consider Sleep Support Tools
If you’re looking for ways to maximize sleep safely, the Snoo Smart Sleeper is a game-changer for many families.
- Automatically rocks and soothes your baby to sleep
- Responsive white noise calms fussing before full wake-ups
- Sleep safety: Keeps your baby securely swaddled on their back
Buying a Snoo can feel like a big investment, which is why many parents choose to rent instead. Renting gives you all the benefits without the $2,000 price tag, and you can return it once your baby outgrows it around 6 months.
💡 Tip: Renting a Snoo for just the first 3 months can help you get through the hardest sleep stage without committing to a purchase.
Surviving the First 3 Months
The newborn stage can feel endless, but it truly flies by. Focus on:
- Creating a safe and soothing sleep routine
- Accepting help when it’s offered
- Using tools that actually lighten your load
If you’re ready to get more rest, consider renting a Snoo Smart Sleeper. It can give your whole family the extra sleep you need to enjoy those early newborn snuggles a little more.
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