Keep them warm

Babies don’t tend to like the cold. Try to keep the temperature of the room they’re sleeping in at 16-20°C. Gently run a hot water bottle over the bottom sheet of their cot, so the bedding is warm before you put your baby down. Take care not to leave the hot water bottle in the cot as you’re just warming the sheets.

Try a massage

Baby massage can be a great way to relax and settle your newborn; it can support a comfortable night’s sleep and it’s a great opportunity to check your baby’s skin for dryness. Apply a small amount of moisturising lotion and gently massage their face, arms, legs, feet and hands. Try using Oilatum Soothe & Protect Junior Moisturising Lotion, which is clinically tested to soothe and protect skin to reduce the occurrence of dry skin.

Use soft fabrics

Using soft fabrics, such as cotton, for your newborn’s sheets and sleep suit can help keep your baby’s dry skin comfortable. Try to wash any new bedding and clothing before use and be sure to use non-bio detergent and a fabric softener, to ensure any irritants have been washed away and help prevent a reaction.

Remove stimulants

Turn any lighting down low and remove anything unrelated to sleep, such as TVs, mobile phones or toys from view. The noise and lights from these could keep your little one awake.

Play white noise

White noise is background noise that sounds like radio static and it’s proven to help babies settle. One study found that 80% of newborns fell asleep within just five minutes of listening to it. Soft, soothing sounds such as waves breaking on a beach or a waterfall may also work well.