Why Does My Baby Cry Every Time I Try to Put Them to Sleep?

As a parent, few things are as emotionally draining as hearing your baby cry right when you’re trying to put them to sleep. Whether it’s naps or bedtime, the struggle can feel overwhelming—but you're not alone. Many parents go through the same thing, and there’s usually a reason (and solution) behind the tears.

Let’s explore the most common causes—and how to gently soothe your baby into better sleep.

👶 1. Separation Anxiety

As your baby grows (especially after 6 months), they begin to understand that you're a separate person—and when you're not in sight, they miss you deeply. Cue the tears.

What to Try:

• Stay in the room for a few minutes after putting them down.

• Use a comfort object (lovey, sleep-safe blanket, etc.).

• Say a calm, consistent goodnight phrase to build trust.

😴 2. Overtiredness

Keeping your baby awake longer doesn’t always help them sleep better—in fact, it often makes it worse. An overtired baby gets cranky and has a harder time falling asleep.

What to Try:

• Watch for sleepy signs: yawning, rubbing eyes, zoning out.

• Stick to age-appropriate wake windows.

• Begin bedtime before your baby is overtired.

🌞 3. Under-Tiredness

If your baby hasn't been awake long enough, they simply might not be ready to sleep yet—leading to frustration when you try to put them down.

What to Try:

• Adjust nap and bedtime times.

• Make sure they’ve had playtime, tummy time, or interaction.

• Keep the room bright and stimulating during wake windows.

🍼 4. Discomfort

Babies may cry when something feels wrong—hunger, gas, teething, a wet diaper, or temperature discomfort.

What to Try:

• Make sure your baby is fed, clean, and dressed comfortably.

• Use gas relief techniques or teething toys if appropriate.

• Keep the room at a sleep-friendly temperature (65–72°F / 18–22°C).

🎵 5. Sleep Associations

If your baby is used to falling asleep with rocking, nursing, or being held, they might cry when those aren't present.

What to Try:

• Introduce gentle, gradual changes to how your baby falls asleep.

• Try techniques like “pick up/put down,” gradual retreat, or other sleep training methods.

• Stay consistent with your approach.

📖 6. No Soothing Bedtime Routine

Babies do best when they know what to expect. A consistent, calming bedtime routine signals that it’s time to wind down.

What to Try:

• Start a simple routine: bath, diaper, PJs, book, cuddle, lullaby.

• Keep lights dim and sounds soft.

• Repeat the same steps every night to create a sense of safety and structure.

---

🩺 When to Check with a Paediatrician

If crying is prolonged, intense, or accompanied by signs like fever, rash, or refusal to eat, talk to your pediatrician. Sometimes discomfort has a medical root.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Sleep challenges are a normal part of babyhood—and so are the tears. Try not to stress too much. Your baby is learning how to feel safe in a big world, and your love and consistency are the most powerful tools you have.

You’re doing a great job. One day, this will be a distant memory—and hopefully, you’ll be sleeping a little better too.