Dealing with a colicky baby can be one of the most challenging experiences for new parents. The excessive crying, often lasting for hours, can leave you feeling exhausted and helpless. Colic is typically defined as frequent, prolonged, and intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby, usually peaking at around six weeks and improving by three to four months. While the exact cause of colic remains unknown, there are several proven methods to help soothe your little one and restore some peace to your home. Here are six tips to calm a colicky baby in minutes.
1. Use Gentle Motion
Babies are used to constant movement in the womb, so gentle rocking or rhythmic motion can be incredibly soothing for a colicky baby. You can try different techniques to see which one works best for your baby, such as:
- Rocking your baby in your arms or in a rocking chair
- Holding your baby and swaying gently from side to side
- Using a baby swing or vibrating bouncer
- Taking a car ride (the motion and sound of the engine can be very calming)
- Wearing your baby in a carrier and walking around
Some parents find that using an exercise ball to bounce gently while holding their baby helps provide the perfect rhythmic movement. Experiment with different motions to discover what works best for your baby.
2. Try White Noise or Soothing Sounds
White noise mimics the sounds your baby heard in the womb, which can be incredibly comforting. There are several ways to introduce white noise and soothing sounds:
- Turning on a white noise machine or app
- Running a fan, vacuum cleaner, or hairdryer (from a safe distance)
- Playing calming lullabies or classical music
- Using shushing sounds, either from a recording or by softly whispering “shhh” near your baby’s ear
Many parents swear by the “5 S’s” technique from Dr. Harvey Karp’s Happiest Baby on the Block, which includes shushing as a key method to calm colicky babies.
3. Give a Warm Bath or Use Warmth
Warmth can be incredibly soothing for a fussy baby. If your baby is in the middle of a colic episode, try:
- Giving them a warm bath, which can help relax their muscles and distract them from their discomfort
- Placing a warm (not hot) washcloth on their tummy to ease gas pains
- Holding your baby skin-to-skin, which provides warmth and comfort
The sensation of warmth can help ease tension and provide relief for an upset baby.
4. Burp Your Baby Frequently
Trapped gas is a common cause of colic, so ensuring your baby is properly burped can help alleviate discomfort. If your baby is crying after feeding, try:
- Holding them upright and gently patting their back
- Using different burping positions, such as over your shoulder, sitting upright on your lap, or lying across your knees
- Burping them mid-feeding rather than waiting until they’re finished
Some babies struggle with swallowing air during feedings, so using an anti-colic bottle or adjusting their latch during breastfeeding can also help.
5. Try a Pacifier
Sucking is a natural calming reflex for babies, and offering a pacifier can sometimes provide instant relief. If your baby is struggling with colic, try giving them a pacifier to see if it helps soothe them. Some babies prefer to suck on their hands or fingers, while others find comfort in nursing. If you’re breastfeeding, you can also offer your breast for comfort sucking.
If your baby resists the pacifier at first, try gently tapping it or holding it in place for a few moments until they latch on.
6. Swaddle Your Baby
Swaddling can create a sense of security for newborns, replicating the snug environment of the womb. A properly wrapped swaddle can:
- Prevent your baby’s startle reflex from waking them up
- Help them feel safe and comforted
- Provide warmth and security
When swaddling, ensure your baby’s arms are snug but that their hips have enough room to move. Some babies prefer having one arm out, while others feel more secure with both arms tucked in. If your baby resists swaddling at first, try different swaddle techniques or use a swaddle sack with Velcro or zippers for ease.
Final Thoughts
Colic can be incredibly stressful for both babies and parents, but finding the right soothing techniques can make a world of difference. Every baby is unique, so it may take some trial and error to discover what works best for your little one. Be patient, and remember that colic is temporary—most babies outgrow it by three to four months. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or friends if you need a break. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your baby.
If your baby’s crying seems unusual, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or weight loss, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical conditions. With time, patience, and the right strategies, you’ll soon find ways to bring comfort to your baby and peace to your home
