A proper sleep routine is important for people of all ages, but for babies—especially around six months—sleep becomes crucial for growth and brain development. At this age, a baby usually sleeps 13–14 hours in 24 hours, divided between daytime naps and night sleep.
If your baby sleeps very late at night or wakes up repeatedly, it may affect their development, mood, feeding, and daytime energy. They may become cranky, fussy, or start sleeping more during the day, which further disrupts their night sleep. Many times, small parental habits unknowingly become the reason behind these sleep problems.
If your child is active through the day, they should normally fall asleep by 8 PM due to tiredness. But if they still struggle to sleep, you may be making one of these common mistakes.
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No fixed bedtime routine
One of the biggest reasons babies sleep late is the absence of a consistent bedtime schedule.
Many families keep the baby awake because different members want to play with them. This makes it difficult for the baby’s internal clock to settle.
What to do:
Put your baby to bed at the same time every night. Within a few days, their body will naturally adjust to the routine.
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Bright lights in the room
Parents often keep the lights bright thinking it will help them attend to the baby at night. But bright lights stimulate the baby’s brain and prevent deep sleep.
What to do:
Use dim lights or a soft night lamp. This helps the baby relax and sleep comfortably without disrupting their circadian rhythm.
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Habit of rocking or feeding to sleep
This is very common. Babies who are rocked, fed, or walked to sleep become dependent on it.
So when you put them down, they wake up; or they cannot sleep unless this routine is repeated.
What to do:
Gently encourage your baby to fall asleep in the crib/bed, not on your arms. Start slowly—put them down when they are sleepy but not fully asleep.
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Improper room temperature
A room that is too hot or too cold can prevent babies from sleeping deeply. Even a small change in temperature can make them uncomfortable.
What to do:
Keep the room temperature neutral—neither too warm nor too cold. Also ensure the environment is quiet and peaceful.
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Uncomfortable bedding or clothing
Sometimes small things—like a rough bedsheet, tight clothing, or thick woolens—disturb a baby’s sleep. Woolen clothes in particular can make babies feel hot and wake up repeatedly.
What to do:
Use soft, breathable cotton bedding.
In winter, instead of thick heavy clothes, use thin layers that you can add or remove easily.
By correcting these small habits, your baby’s sleep routine can improve significantly. A well-rested baby is happier, healthier, and more active during the day.
