Ask any parent who has just been through the newborn phase and they’ll tell you—sleep is something that you both lack and think about every day. Baby sleep is one of the most daunting parts of being a new parent and there is no way around the fact that as parents we lose sleep. So is the battle for sleep as a new parent a lost cause? Absolutely not! There’s no magic cure for the lack of sleep during the newborn phase, but there are a few things (and baby sleep products) to consider when it comes to setting your baby and yourself up for success.
“I highly recommend viewing their sleep as a puzzle and making sure all of the necessary pieces are in place,” says Michele Wawerski, founder of Peaceful Littles and certified professional sleep consultant. While it’s a reality that you’ll have to get used to new sleep patterns, and definitely some sleepless nights, helping baby get into a healthy sleep routine is something you can help control when you take a few parts of that puzzle under consideration. According to Wawerski those factors are sleep environment, bedtime routine, schedule, soothing response, room acclimation, and consistency. “Pediatric sleep is a journey. Remaining consistent with a sleep plan will allow your little one to fall into a great sleep routine,” adds Wawerski.
Don’t get me wrong, we know that all we can do is try our best as parents, and not all babies or families are equal—so whatever works for you, is what you should focus on. But if you’re looking for a few products to help baby sleep that will keep baby safe, cozy and perhaps even get you a few more minutes of sleep, you’ve come to the right place.
From bassinets to swaddle blankets, the best sound machine, smart monitor, and even a baby shusher (IYKYK!), these are our picks for the best baby sleep products to add your registry.
Creating your baby registry can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help with editor- and expert-approved picks for everything you need for your new baby (and for you!) with our first ever Baby Registry Awards. Click here for our top picks for everything from bouncers to baby bottles.
Monitors & Noise Machines
Rest+ 2nd Gen
Sound machine, nightlight, and clock, this wifi adjustable triple threat does it all! Plus you can change sounds and lights remotely.
Pro Camera Baby Monitor
This baby monitor does more than just provide a great view of your baby! You can set up push notifications to the device of your choice and see baby from anywhere without lugging extra gear around.
Dream Duo 2
The Dream Duo hits at a higher price point but there is a peace of mind that comes with this smart monitor and sock duo. Tracking baby's sleep patterns and quality helps take the guess work out of when to put them down for naps and when they get the best sleep.
Sleep Miracle Soother
This is IYKYK kind of item our editors love. Makes no sense if you haven't been there but you will thank us later.
Bassinets
Smart Bassinet
Parents who have been through the newborn phase with a Snoo agree this smart bassinet is a sleep saver—it responds to infant cries with soothing movement and keeps babies safely on their backs. It's a pricey investment in your sleep and sanity.
Bassinet Swivel Sleeper 3.0
Two of our editors, and sleep expert, recommend this easy to use bassinet. The swivel feature allows for extra close sleep while still being safe during those first few months of baby's life.
Prism Bilia Bassinet
A chic and portable Moses basket-style bassinet is a great way to keep baby snug and safe while they nap. This gorgeous basket, handcrafted in Ghana, can be used for storage or decoration when baby outgrows it.
Swaddle Blankets, Sleep Sacks & PJs
The Ollie Swaddle
While pricey, this swaddle can defeat even the strongest ninja baby from escape. If you want your infant tucked in tight and safely this swaddle is it!
Sleep Bag
As soon as baby is out of the swaddle, you will love this extra soft sleep bag that comes in 3 different weights depending on your climate.
Swaddle Box
It's impossible to predict which swaddle blanket will click with your baby. Babylist's swaddle box is the perfect way to try out different types from Love to Dream, Happiest Baby, Halo and Aden + Anais.
Zip Rompers/Sleepers
Unless medically necessary, no parent wants snaps on their newborn sleepers. Baby can live in these super soft zipper pajamas and they somehow magically stretch and grow with them!
Organic Baby Zip Front Loose Fit Footed Sleep & Play
A cozy and cute pair of baby pjs doesn't have to break the bank. This budget-friendly option from Burt's Bees is one of our editors' favorites.
Crib Mattress & Sheets
Breathable Crib Mattress
This crib mattress tops our list for most innovative design—not foam or coil, this hypoallergenic mattress is made with a Wovenaire core that’s 90 percent air and 10 percent food-grade polymer, providing the same comfort with more breathability.
Organic Cotton Fitted Crib Sheet
Burt's Bees cozy jersey knit crib sheets come in many prints, and solid colors and are so soft for your sweet litlte one's skin.
Fitted Crib Sheets
You'll need lots of crib sheets so a 3-pack that comes in great patterns and is comfy and cozy is a must.
Other Essentials
Muslin Blanket Set
Super soft and super stretchy for easy swaddling, our editors loved having these versatile swaddle blankets on hand. Plus, they come in tons of cute patterns and get softer with each wash, meaning they might even become a lovey as your baby grows.
Try-It Pacifier Collection
Not all pacifiers are made equal and not all babies prefer the same thing. Take the guess-work out of it by trying this multi-pack.
Pacifier Bundle
According to the AAP, pacifier use is associated with reducing risk of SIDS. And not only do these pacifiers come in cute colors, but they're easy for baby to keep in their mouth and eventually grasp.
No Tools Original Blackout Shade
A blackout shade is key to inducing sleep and keeping baby asleep.
Quincy Cotton Canvas Blackout Curtain Panel
Not only does Pottery Barn's black out curtain panel help block light to set up an ideal sleep environment for baby, it also reduces noise.
