Shnuggle was founded by parents Sinead and Adam Murphy with a mission to make life easier, safer, and more enjoyable for families. After experiencing the everyday challenges of early parenthood themselves, they set out to create clever, problem-solving baby products that support parents through each stage of their journey. Their first innovation – a modern, hypoallergenic Moses basket – set the tone for a growing range of thoughtfully designed essentials. Today, Shnuggle is a multi-award-winning brand trusted by families in over 30 countries. With a focus on smart design, uncompromising safety, and a modern aesthetic, every product is created to ease the load and make parenting that little bit simpler – so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying those precious moments with your baby
Here are some of our favourite products from Shnuggle:
Baths and Bath Accessories
Shnuggle’s Baby Bath and Toddler Bath are cleverly designed to make bath time easier and more enjoyable. The Baby Bath features a supportive bum bump and angled backrest to help keep your newborn in an upright position, making it easier to wash them while keeping them comfortable and secure. You can also use this with the Folding Bath Stand to make life just that little bit easier! As your little one grows, the Toddler Bath offers more space and a contoured shape that supports independent sitting, while still fitting neatly in most bathrooms. Both baths use minimal water, are easy to clean, and help make bath time a breeze from newborn to toddler stage. Shnuggle have created a super cute and accurate bath thermometer to ease your mind about temperature as well.
The Shnuggle Baby Shampoo Brush is made from soft, antibacterial food‑grade silicone, designed to fit comfortably in your hand. It gently massages baby’s scalp to help cleanse, soothe, and brush away cradle cap or dry skin during bath time—making shampooing calming and easy.
Meanwhile, the Shnuggle Eco Washy Rinsing Jug is crafted from 98% recycled plastic, offering a sustainable way to rinse your child’s hair. With a soft, flexible rim that rests gently on their forehead and a secure easy-grip handle, it ensures a tear-free pour while keeping water safely away from eyes and ears.
Make bath time fun and fuss-free with Shnuggle’s clever bath toys and accessories. The Wishy Bath Toy lights up and separates into parts for sensory play and scooping, while the Stacking Boat Set encourages imaginative water play and fine motor skills. Once the fun is over, the Shnuggle Toy Drying Caddy keeps everything organised and mould-free with its quick-drain design and handy suction cups for easy storage on bathroom tiles or glass.
Your Nappy Changing Station
Make nappy changes and toilet training easier with Shnuggle’s smart solutions. The Squishy Changing Mat is soft, supportive, and easy to wipe clean – perfect for comfy, fuss-free changes. Pair it with the Eco-Touch Nappy Bin, designed with a sleek dual-lid system that traps smells and makes disposal simple. When your little one’s ready to start potty training, the Step Stoolhelps them reach the toilet or basin with confidence, thanks to its non-slip surface and sturdy design.
Bedtime bliss
Make every bedtime a little easier with Shnuggle’s thoughtfully designed sleep essentials. The Shnuggle Aire Bedside Crib is lightweight and breathable, with dual-view mesh sides and a drop-down panel that makes nighttime feeds and check-ins simple and safe. Its stylish design fits beautifully into modern homes while supporting safer sleep from day one. Add the Shnuggle Moonlight Nightlight, a portable and rechargeable light with soft, dual-colour tones that mimic natural lighting to ease baby into sleep. It’s also perfect as a toddler-friendly lantern once they’re on the move – offering comfort and reassurance from newborn to toddlerhood.
From newborn baths to bedtime comforts and everything in between, Shnuggle makes everyday parenting moments simpler, safer, and more enjoyable. With clever design, trusted safety, and beautiful aesthetics, their award-winning range supports you and your little one through every stage. Shop the full Shnuggle collection now.
Designed to make it easier for little ones to get to those hard to reach places, helping them to more easily potty train, reach the sink or help out in the kitchen.
The soft to touch, anti-microbial surface offers a comfy and hygienic place for little feet; while the non-slip surface and base provide extra grip even on wet surfaces, giving you peace of mind.
Giving them the confidence to become more independent as they grow!
Make bath time more comfortable with the Shnuggle Baby Bath Stand, designed to raise the Shnuggle Baby Bath to approximately waist height. By reducing the need to bend, it can help ease strain on your back and create a more relaxed experience for you and your little one. It is especially helpful for parents with back discomfort or mums recovering from a c-section, making those precious first bath times feel safer and more manageable.
Lightweight yet stable, the stand has grippy feet, a safety strap and a secure locking mechanism to keep the bath firmly in place. It is quick to assemble and folds away easily when not in use, making it a practical addition to your bathroom or nursery.
Designed exclusively for the Shnuggle Baby Bath, the stand offers a snug and secure fit for babies from birth to 6 months, or until they begin trying to stand, whichever comes first.
Keep bath time comfortable and fun as your little one grows with the Shnuggle Toddler Bath. Designed as the perfect next step after a baby bath, it offers toddlers more room to sit, splash and play while still providing the comfort and security of their own bathing space.
A built-in bum bump encourages a natural sitting position, while the soft foam backrest and non-slip base provide added comfort and stability. Generously sized yet lightweight and compact, the bath fits most shower trays and a wide range of baths.
It uses much less water than a full sized bathtub too! The Shnuggle Toddler Bath in Taupe supports your toddler as they build confidence and independence.
Light up every step with Shnuggle Moonlight, the sleep friendly portable nightlight. With dual parent and child modes, a room temperature sensing dock and unique design, Shnuggle Moonlight is a must have for all new parents.
In Parent Mode, Shnuggle Moonlight provides the perfect amount of light to feed, comfort and change baby through the night, anywhere in your home. As baby grows simply switch to Child Mode and Moonlight becomes the perfect night time companion for your child. A soothing bedside light to help promote sleep and a comforting light for your little one’s late night bathroom trips. The clever, temperature sensing dock also helps you to keep the room temperature just right.
Bath time just got easier with this clever organic cotton XL bath towel and cape in White colour, with an included silicone teething ring. Designed to keep both you and your baby comfortable, it wraps your little one in soft, absorbent fabric while protecting you from splashes.
The silicone teether lets you fasten the cape around your neck like an apron - this means you can bathe your baby hands free, then lift them safely from the water and wrap them straight into warmth. Once baby is on the change table, the teether doubles as a playful distraction to keep little hands busy while you dry them off.
Generously sized at 90x100cm, the Dry'N'Play grows with your child and will be a trusty part of bath time for years.
Baby Swimming Lessons: Building Water Confidence from an Early Age
Living in New Zealand means water is never far away! We've got beaches, we've got lakes and we've got rivers, not to mention our swimming pools and backyard water play. Learning how to feel confident and safe around water is an important life skill for our Kiwi kids.
Introducing your little one to the water from an early age can be a lovely experience for the whole family. Swimming lessons can support coordination, movement and confidence, while also giving parents and caregivers a special opportunity to have fun, connect and learn together.
Most importantly, early positive experiences around water can help lay the foundations for lifelong water safety.
Water Safety New Zealand says drowning remains a leading cause of death for New Zealand children aged under five, making active supervision and age appropriate water skills incredibly important.
Start with water confidence
Your baby's first introduction to water doesn't need to happen at a swimming pool.
Bath time is a great place to start. Allow your baby to enjoy splashing, kicking and gradually becoming familiar with water around their face and body.
As they become more comfortable, trips to the local pool can introduce them to a completely different environment with new sounds, sensations and movements plus a whole lot of fun!
The aim at this stage isn't to turn your baby into a swimmer. It's simply about helping them feel happy and secure around water.
When can babies start swimming lessons?
There isn't one set age that suits every baby or every swimming programme.
Some specialist swim schools offer parent and baby classes from around three months, while others begin from six months. The best option is to check the starting age and requirements of your chosen swim school.
Finding swimming lessons in New Zealand
If you're looking for somewhere to start, there are plenty of great options.
Dean Greenwood Swim School has several Auckland locations and offers programmes ranging from babies through to adults.
Hilton Brown Swimming offers lessons for babies, children, teenagers and adults across locations in Auckland, Waikato, Hawke's Bay and Manawatū. Their infant programme focuses on water confidence, movement, safety awareness and introducing skills such as floating.
Many local leisure centres and community swimming pools also offer learn-to-swim programmes for babies, preschoolers, school aged children and even adults, so it's totally worth checking what is available close to home.
What happens at baby swimming lessons?
Baby swimming lessons are usually much more about water familiarisation and confidence than traditional swimming.
A parent or caregiver will generally get into the pool too, helping baby feel secure while the instructor introduces activities through play, songs and movement.
Depending on your baby's age and the programme, lessons may gradually introduce skills such as:
Becoming comfortable with water around the face and head
Kicking and moving through the water
Floating and rolling
Breath control and gentle submersion
Moving towards or returning to a safe position
Learning to feel calm and confident in the pool
It's also valuable learning for parents. You'll become more confident handling your baby in the water and learn ways to continue practising positive water experiences together.
And remember - swimming lessons build skills and confidence, but they never replace active adult supervision around water.
Tips for making swimming lessons easier
Give yourself plenty of time
Getting yourself and a baby changed can sometimes take longer than the swimming lesson itself!
Arrive early enough that you don't need to rush. Family changing rooms are especially helpful, and if your pool allows strollers inside, having somewhere safe for baby to sit while you get changed can make things much easier.
Pack for afterwards
Swimming can be tiring, particularly for little ones. Have everything ready for a feed or snack afterwards depending on your baby's age.
Keep them warm
Moving from a warm swimming pool into a cooler changing room or outside air can feel like a big temperature change. Have a cosy towel and dry clothing ready so you can get your little one comfortable quickly.
Bring another pair of hands
If you're taking more than one child to lessons, another adult can make changing, feeding and getting everyone safely to and from the pool considerably easier. It can totally be done with one caregiver if you're game... but four hands are easier than two.
Don't worry if every lesson isn't perfect
Some days your baby might love the pool. Other days they may be tired, hungry or simply not interested.
That's completely normal. Building water confidence is a gradual process, so keep the experience positive rather than trying to push through when they've had enough.
What to pack for baby swimming lessons
A little preparation makes getting in and out of the pool much easier.
Baby swimwear
Start with comfortable baby swimwear and swimming essentials suitable for your little one's age and the type of swimming you'll be doing.
Our new Baby Swimwear Collection brings together the swim essentials you need for trips to the pool, beach and summer days by the water.
Shop our full range of Baby Swim Essentials here
Swim nappies
Most pools require babies who aren't toilet trained to wear an appropriate swim nappy, so check your swim school's requirements before your first lesson.
A warm towel
A soft towel or hooded towel is ideal for wrapping baby up as soon as they leave the water.
A change mat
Pool changing rooms aren't always the easiest place to change a baby, so having your own change mat can be incredibly useful.
The Purely Baby Disposable Change Mats are particularly handy for swimming lessons because you can create a clean changing surface and simply dispose of the mat afterwards.
Don't forget
Pack a few extra essentials too:
Dry clothes
Spare nappies
Wipes
A wet bag or waterproof bag for wet swimwear
Milk, a bottle or snacks depending on baby's age
Your own swimwear and towel - surprisingly easy to forget!
Water safety always comes first
Swimming lessons are valuable, but no swimming lesson or floatation device can replace close adult supervision.
Water Safety New Zealand recommends keeping babies and young children within arm's reach whenever they're in or around water. This applies everywhere - the swimming pool, beach, bath, paddling pool, lake or river.
Stay focused on your child rather than relying on lifeguards, older siblings or floatation toys to supervise them.
It's also important to look for potential water hazards around your own home. In New Zealand, residential pools that can hold water to a depth of 400 mm or more are subject to requirements for physical barriers designed to prevent unsupervised access by children under five.
Enjoy the water together
Learning to swim is a journey, and it begins long before your child is swimming independently.
Positive bath times, trips to the pool and regular swimming lessons can all help your little one develop confidence and respect for the water while creating plenty of special memories along the way.
Keep it fun, follow their pace and, above all, stay close whenever water is around.
Travelling with a baby or toddler is much easier with a lightweight, compact stroller. Whether you’re navigating airports, hopping on and off trains or exploring a new city, the right stroller can make all the difference. We’ve compared some of the best travel strollers available in New Zealand, including the Stokke YOYO3, Nuna VIAA CABN, Nuna TRVL dubl and Edwards & Co Lucci.
Why Choose a Travel Stroller?
Everyday strollers tend to be packed with extra features that are great for everyday usage but can make them more bulky. When it comes to travel, compact and lightweight is the way to go. Travel strollers are designed to be easy to carry, fold, and store – perfect for life on the move.
What to Look For
Foldability: Look for a stroller that’s easy to fold – ideally one-handed.
Weight: A lighter stroller is easier to lift into car boots, overhead lockers, or up stairs.
Compact Size: Check the folded dimensions – the smaller, the better for travel.
Portability: Is there a carry strap or handle? This makes a big difference on the go.
Manoeuvrability: Smooth steering and good suspension can help you navigate tight spaces and bumpy pavements.
Comfort: Reclining seats, padded cushions, and a sun canopy keep your little one happy on the move.
Storage: A basket underneath for snacks, nappies, and must-haves is a handy bonus.
Accessories: Travel bags, rain covers, and cup holders can all add extra convenience.
Plane Travel Suitability: If you want to carry your stroller onboard, check its folded dimensions. IATA (the International Air Transport Association) suggests 56 x 45 x 25 cm for carry-on. But cabin baggage and stroller rules vary between airlines, routes and aircraft. Always check directly with your airline before flying.
You may also be able to use your stroller right up to the gate and have it stored in the hold – ask your airline in advance. Even strollers designed to fit in overhead lockers may need to be gate-checked on full flights.
Our Top Picks for Travel Strollers
STOKKE YOYO3Weight: 6.2 kg (6+ pack)Folded Size: 52 x 44 x 18 cm
The YOYO3 folds with one hand and opens in seconds – true to its name. Its compact size makes it a favourite for airline travel, and it’s compatible with a bassinet, newborn pack, or capsule. The slim frame and smooth steering are ideal for city life, and it’s customisable with colour/seat packs in a range of colours. It even has a padded shoulder strap so you can carry it hands-free.
Perfect for: Urban adventures and families who travel often.
NUNA VIAA CABN Weight: 7.6 kgFolded Size: L 20 x W 42.5 x H 62 (52 without armbar) cm
The Nuna Viaa Cabn is compact, lightweight and designed to meet IATA cabin guidelines, fitting into the overhead locker. With a quick, compact fold, smooth manoeuvrability and all the premium details you expect from Nuna, it’s ready for airport dashes, city exploring and everyday outings.
Perfect for: Those who want a high-end, luxurious stroller with all the comfort of a full-size model.
NUNA TRVL DUBLWeight: 12.8 kgFolded Size: L 41 x W 78 x H 74 cm
Travelling with two? The Nuna TRVL dubl offers the convenience of a travel stroller in a side-by-side design. At 78cm wide, it's designed to move through standard doorways and narrow spaces, while each seat reclines independently - handy when one child wants to nap and the other wants to see the sights. It folds one-handed, stands on its own when folded and is surprisingly lightweight for a double stroller.
Perfect for: Families travelling with twins, a baby and toddler, or two young children.
EDWARDS & CO LUCCIWeight: 7.3 kgFolded Size: 57cm H x 46cm W x 24cm D
The Lucci’s one-handed auto-fold makes travel easy. Ergonomic seat with 3 recline options including lie-flat. Meets IATA guidelines for the overhead plane lockers in Travel Mode (wheels/bumper removed).
Perfect for: Families looking for a lightweight, compact travel stroller that won’t break the bank.
Shop stroller accessories
Which Travel Stroller Is Right for You?
The best travel stroller depends on where you're going and how you'll use it. Flying frequently? Folded size and weight may be your priority. Exploring cities? Look for smooth steering, suspension and a comfortable recline. Travelling with two children? A lightweight double stroller can make getting around much easier.
Shop our range of strollers online, or visit Dimples Newmarket or Christchurch to fold, carry and test-drive them for yourself. Our team can help you find the best stroller for your family and your next adventure.
Happy travels!
FAQs
Can you take a travel stroller on a plane?Often, but it depends on the airline, aircraft and stroller's folded dimensions. Some compact strollers may be accepted as cabin baggage, while others need to be checked or left at the aircraft door.
What size stroller fits in an overhead compartment?There isn't one universal size. Many airlines use cabin-bag dimensions around 56 × 45 × 25cm as a general reference, but individual airline rules apply.
Can a travel stroller be used as an everyday stroller?Yes. Many modern travel strollers offer features such as reclining seats, good suspension, storage baskets and sun canopies, making them practical for everyday use as well as holidays. And they don't take up too much space in your car boot. However you should consider how much storage and all-terrain capability you need before choosing one as your main stroller. Travel strollers typically have smaller wheels making a slight less smooth ride.
Can you use a travel stroller from birth?Some travel strollers are suitable from birth thanks to a lie-flat seat, newborn insert, bassinet or compatible infant capsule. Always check the manufacturer's age, weight and configuration guidelines for the specific stroller.
Which is the right seat for your little one?
Choosing a car seat can feel overwhelming. Your choice is more than just a purchase; it's an investment in your child's safety and comfort. Are you looking for a capsule, a convertible, a booster seat or an all in one? And how do you know where to start?
Buckle up as we lay out the different types of seat to help you figure out what’s right for your whānau.
Capsule Car Seats
Best for: Newborns to approx. 12 months (up to 13kg depending on the brand)What they are: Rear-facing, portable infant car seats that easily lift in or out of the car. Most of the capsules we sell clip onto a base (sold separately) that stays installed in your car. Others have a baseless install either by Isofix or car seatbelt.
Why parents love them:
If you choose a capsule that's compatible with your stroller, you can transfer your sleeping baby for car to stroller without waking them
They're easy to carry with a handle
Most work with a base that stays in the car - simple click and go.
Things to consider:
You’ll likely only use it for the first year.
Weight matters – some are much easier to carry than others.
Great options to compare:
Nuna Pipa Next – lightweight (only 2.8kg) and super portable.
Nuna Arra Flex – features three recline positions - including a near-flat 157° recline.
Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro – ergonomic recline, 360° base for easy loading.
Nuna Pipa Urbn – ideal for swapping between cars or rideshares, it has built-in Isofix, no base required.
Nuna Cari Next – this one is in a category all of its own - both a carrycot and car seat. The Cari has a three-point harness and connects to the Nuna Next Base in the car. Baby can lie peacefully at a full recline - the best position for a developing spine. The Cari can also connect to your stroller so you can move from home to car to pushchair without interrupting their sleep.
Convertible Car Seats
Best for: Birth to approx. 4 years (or longer depending on the seat)What they are: Seats that start rear-facing and convert to forward-facing as your child grows.
Why parents love them:
Cost-effective – you’ll use it for several years.
Often more spacious and padded than a capsule.
Things to consider:
Not portable – it stays installed in the car.
Some seats rotate on a base, so you can turn them towards the door to make buckling in easier
Check your car - do you have Isofix points or do you need a seat that can be seat belt installed?
Great options to compare:
Nuna Todl Next – works with a rotating base for easy access.
Nuna Rylo – built-in 360° rotation, no separate base required.
Nuna Rava Next - seatbelt installed, and known for its simple installation, generous legroom, and plush comfort. Ideal for families who want a long-lasting seat without the need for a base or Isofix.
All-in-One (Convertible + Booster)
Best for: Birth to approx. 11–12 yearsWhat they are: Car seats that transition from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster seat.
Why parents love them:
One purchase that lasts for years.
Ideal for parents who don’t want to keep upgrading.
Things to consider:
Not portable – stays in the car.
No rotating options available.
Great options to compare:
Nuna Exec Next – rear-facing from birth, forward-facing to booster mode up to 148cm / 50kg.
Britax One4Life Slim – rear-facing to booster mode up to 160cm / 54.4kg.
Booster Seats
Best for: 4+ years (or as per height and weight guidelines)What they are: Forward-facing seats that position the vehicle seatbelt properly across your child.
Why parents love them:
Simple to use and install.
Gives older kids a good seat height and a view out the window.
Often more compact.
Things to consider:
Only suitable once your child meets minimum size requirements.
Great options to compare:
Nuna Lumn – harnessed car seat that transforms to a belt positioning booster
Nuna Aace Lx – adjustable height, recline, and side impact protection.
Britax Skyline – affordable, comfortable, and lightweight.
Axkid Up – has a patented raisable seat to elevate your child to better align with the vehicle seat belt
Other Key Considerations When Choosing a Car Seat
Car fit: Not all seats fit all vehicles – check for compatibility, especially if fitting multiple seats.
Ease of use: Consider rotating seats if you struggle with lifting your child in and out.
Installation method: Isofix is quicker and easier, but seatbelt installs offer flexibility for older vehicles or travel. However Isofix does have lower weight restrictions (generally around 18kgs). If a seat allows for both Isofix and seatbelt installation it can pay to opt for Vehicle Seat Belt installation as it eliminates having to switch installation method once weight limits are reached.
Longevity: Weigh up whether you want a dedicated seat for each stage or one that adapts as your child grows.
Need Help Choosing?
Our Car Seat Technicians are here to help you make the best choice for your family. Visit a Dimples store and get personalised advice, try seats in your car, and enjoy our free professional car seat fitting with purchase. You can also take our handy quiz to find out what might work best for you.
Whichever seat you choose, safety and comfort come first – and we’re here to make sure you get both.
Shop the full car seat range online or in-store today.
The Power of a Bedtime Routine for Your Baby
Simple rhythms that can make bedtime calmer – for both of you
In the early weeks with a newborn, life seems to find a rhythm all on it’s own! Feeds, naps, cuddles and nappy changes all blur into one another, and having anything that resembles a routine can feel a little out of reach… Don’t worry – that’s totally normal.
As your baby grows, you might start to notice more predictable patterns start to emerge. This can be a lovely time to gently introduce a baby bedtime routine - a simple series of calming steps that helps signal to your little one that that the day is coming to an end.
It doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, some of the best bedtime routines are the simplest ones.
Why a Bedtime Routine Matters
Babies LOVE familiarity. Repeating the same gentle activities each evening can help your baby begin to recognise that sleep is coming, while creating a comforting transition between the day’s activities and bedtime.
A bedtime routine can also be a really special opportunity to slow everything down together, creating a sense of calm, security and connection.
And while your bedtime routine will naturally change as your baby grows, those familiar little rituals can continue well into childhood.
When Should You Start a Bedtime Routine?
There’s no exact age when you have to start.
During the newborn stage, feeding and sleeping are naturally quite unpredictable, so there’s no need to worry about a strict schedule. From around six to eight weeks, you will probably notice your baby becoming more predictable, and you can begin introducing a few simple bedtime cues if it feels right for your family.
At first, your routine might simply be a fresh nappy, sleepwear, a feed and a cuddle. You can always add more as your baby grows.
How to Start a Baby Bedtime Routine
There’s no “perfect” bedtime routine - what works beautifully for one family might not work at all for another.
The important things are keeping it relatively simple, calm and consistent. Around 20 to 30 minutes is usually plenty, and where possible, try doing the final part of the routine in your babes room so they begin to associate that space with winding down and sleep.
Here’s a simple bedtime rhythm you could try:
Bath
A warm bath (or shower with you!) can be a lovely way to end your day together. Keep the lights soft if you can, slow things down and let bath time become part of the transition from playtime to bedtime.
Massage
After the bath, a few minutes of gentle baby massage can be incredibly calming and is a beautiful opportunity for some quiet bonding time.
You could use a baby massage product such as Scullys Massage Oil, or keep things very simple with Loloma Coconut Oil.
Keep the movements very slow and gentle, talking quietly, humming or singing to your baby as you go. Over time, even the smell and feel of their usual massage can become another little signal that bedtime is approaching.
A Little Extra Wind Down Support
For particularly restless little ones, you may also like to add something like Magnesium Rescue into your bedtime routine. Magnesium can help regulate the nervous system, promote muscle relaxation, and support the production of melatonin.
The important thing here is the ritual itself. Whether it’s massage, moisturising or simply a quiet cuddle after their bath, repeating the same calm steps each night is what helps make bedtime feel familiar.
Sleepwear
Changing into cosy sleepwear is another simple but powerful bedtime cue!
Choose soft, breathable layers that are appropriate for the temperature of your baby’s room. Merino is one of our favourites for sleep because it makes layering easy throughout the year.
Our baby sleepwear collection includes merino bodysuits, babygrows, gowns and other cosy layers for bedtime.
💛 Dimples Tip: Your baby’s room temperature is much more useful than the season when deciding what they should wear to bed. Feel their chest or back to check whether they’re comfortably warm rather than relying on their hands and feet, which can naturally feel cooler.
Feeding
For younger babies, a feed will naturally be an important part of bedtime.
As your baby gets older, you might like to experiment with offering their final feed slightly earlier in the routine rather than making it the very last thing before sleep. Some families find this helps separate feeding from falling asleep.
But don't stress if your baby loves feeding to sleep, especially in those early months. Every baby is different and your routine can evolve gradually.
A Story or Song
This is one of our favourite parts of a bedtime routine.
Your baby certainly doesn’t need to understand the story yet to enjoy listening to your voice. Reading the same book each night, singing a lullaby or simply humming quietly can become a wonderfully familiar sleep cue.
Reading together from an early age is also such a lovely habit to establish, and our children’s book collection has plenty of beautiful first books to choose from.
One day they'll be choosing the bedtime story themselves - and probably asking you to read it agaaaaiiiin!
Cuddles & Goodnight
Finish with a cuddle, a quiet goodnight and plenty of reassurance.
It sounds so simple, but that same kiss, phrase or cuddle each evening can become one of the most familiar parts of your baby’s bedtime routine.
And even if you know you’ll probably be seeing them again in a few hours, it’s still a lovely way to finish the day together.
Watch for Your Baby’s Sleepy Cues
One of the best bedtime tips we can give is to watch your baby rather than becoming too attached to the clock.
Yawning, rubbing their eyes, staring into the distance, becoming quieter or suddenly getting a little fussy can all be signs that your baby is getting tired.
Starting your bedtime routine when you notice these early sleepy cues can often make settling easier than waiting until your baby is overtired.
Create a Calm, Sleep Friendly Nursery
As bedtime gets closer, gradually make the house feel a little quieter.
Dim the lights, turn the television off and put away stimulating or noisy toys. These small environmental changes can become part of your baby’s bedtime cues too.
A dark room is ideal for sleep, but a gentle night light can be super handy while you're feeding, settling or changing nappies overnight.
💛 Dimples Tip: Once bedtime begins, keep voices quieter and movements slower. Babies pick up on our energy surprisingly well, so turning your pace down can help make the whole room feel calmer.
Putting Baby Down for Sleep
As you get to know your baby, you may like to experiment with placing them into their sleep space when they're sleepy but still awake.
Some babies take to this beautifully. Others need plenty of cuddling, rocking or feeding before they're ready to settle - particularly when they're very young.
There's no need to turn bedtime into a battle. The aim of a routine is to make sleep feel calm and predictable, not to achieve a perfect settling technique.
What works for your baby today may also be completely different in a few months time.
Be Consistent, But Stay Flexible
Consistency helps babies recognise their bedtime cues, but flexibility is just as important.
There'll be evenings when your baby is overtired. There'll be illnesses, holidays, late dinners, visitors and nights where absolutely nothing goes according to plan.
That's parenting!
Rather than worrying about following your routine perfectly, think about having a few familiar rituals you can return to wherever you are.
A fresh nappy, familiar sleepwear, the same book, a cuddle and your usual goodnight might be all your baby needs to recognise that it's bedtime.
If more than one parent or caregiver can occasionally do the bedtime routine, that's great! It helps your baby become comfortable settling with the other special people in their life.
And Don't Forget About Mum
Once baby is finally settled, it can be surprisingly difficult to switch your own brain off.
After spending all day feeding, changing, remembering, organising and looking after somebody else, having a tiny bedtime ritual of your own can be just as valuable.
Make a warm drink, put your phone down, have a shower or simply sit somewhere quiet for ten minutes.
For mums who enjoy something cosy before bed, Mamma's Milk Bar Moon Milk can become part of your own evening wind-down ritual. Prepare yourself a nice warm cup and enjoy a quiet moment once your little one is settled.
Small Rituals With Lasting Benefits
Your baby's bedtime routine doesn't need to be elaborate, and it certainly doesn't need to be perfect.
It's simply a collection of familiar little moments that tell your baby: the day is finished, you're safe, and it's time to rest.
Some nights it might be bath, massage, pyjamas, feed, story and bed. Other nights it might be clean nappy, feed, cuddle... bed.
Both count!
As your baby grows, the routine will grow with them. The massage might disappear, they'll choose their own pyjamas, and eventually they'll be the one reading the bedtime book.
But that cuddle and goodnight kiss? That will still matter - even if one day you have to sneak them in after lights out. ❤️
