A Comprehensive Guide to Fussy Babies

Ah, the joys of parenthood—a beautiful blend of sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and, of course, the occasional fussy baby. Your little one testing their vocal range at full blast probably isn’t music to your ears, but don’t fret—with a dose of know-how and a (lot) of patience, you can learn how to calm a fussy baby in no time. 

Quick Tips to Calm Your Fussy Baby

The quick tips below are your go-to for calming a fussy baby. Let’s get those cries under control and bring back some peace and quiet!

Soothing Sounds

Soothing sounds can work wonders for calming a fussy infant. Not in the mood to hum another lullaby? No problem. Just turn on your baby’s favorite noise to help them settle down. Some babies find ocean waves mesmerizing, while others might just groove to mom and dad’s favorite band. Find the soundtrack that works, and watch the frown turn upside down.

Calming Motion

Whether your fussy baby is tired, bored, or overstimulated, some calming movement can make all the difference. A stroll can help settle your little one, so head out for a walk around the block if you’re dealing with a fussy baby. 

The Snug attachment transforms your Tushbaby Carrier into a full hands-free setup, making it easy to pop your little one in and head out the door. It provides extra support and security for babies 12-45lbs, so they feel cozy and close while you enjoy a stress-free stroll. Whether you’re navigating busy streets or just circling the block, the Snug Attachment turns a simple walk into the perfect remedy for a fussy baby.

Swaddling

Swaddling is like a baby burrito: lay out a blanket, wrap each corner snugly around your little one, and tuck them in tight. The result? A cozy, secure bundle ready for some serious snooze time. It’s a go-to move for getting a fussy baby to sleep and keeping them calm because it mimics their mother’s womb. Being snugly wrapped up can make babies feel secure and relaxed as if they’re being held, which helps them peacefully drift off. No parent can hug their baby 24/7, but a good swaddle can come pretty close.

Teething/Sucking Toys

Teething toys and pacifiers can also help calm a fussy baby—especially when it’s teething time. When those tiny gums are giving your little one grief, a teething toy can be a lifesaver, offering just the right amount of pressure to soothe the ache. Teething can contribute to making your baby fussy while eating—so when they’re going through this, try soft, easy-to-eat foods. And remember, this stage won’t last forever—soon enough, those tiny teeth will be ready to tackle anything on the menu.

Pacifiers can also bring instant comfort with their familiar suckling sensation. Have a clean pacifier ready to go with The Pod—a chic clip-on pouch that keeps your baby’s pacifier clean, close, and always ready for those “I need it now” moments. This nifty little gadget attaches right to your Tushbaby or purse, giving you easy access whenever you need it. You can even use it to stash smaller items like credit cards, earbuds, and lip balm when your little one grows out of paci time.

Common Causes for a Fussy Baby

Whether it’s hunger, a dirty diaper, or simply needing a cuddle, there are a few cues for fussiness. Babies don’t come with a manual, but understanding these common causes can be a game-changer.

We’ve covered some quick tips for soothing a fussy baby, but let’s get to the root of the issue—why is my baby fussy?

Let’s dive into the top reasons your little one might be out of sorts, and how to tackle them like a pro.

Hunger

Just like adults tend to get 'hangry' when we want some food, babies have their own ways of letting you know they're ready to eat. 

If your little one’s smacking their lips, rooting around, or giving you that “feed me now” cry, it’s mealtime. You might also notice tiny hands heading for the mouth—another sure sign that a hunger pang has hit. Babies aren’t subtle when they’re hungry, so if they’re being extra fussy, it might be mealtime. 

These hunger cues are key, as figuring out how much your baby should eat each day can feel like a guessing game—but there are a few general guidelines you can follow. Newborns will typically eat 8-12 times a day until they reach 2 months, when this may drop to 6-8 times. As they grow, this will shift to around 4-6 times per day when they reach 6-12 months. However, every baby is different, so let their hunger guide you.

When your baby’s hungry and you’re on the move, the Tushbaby Carrier steps in as your go-to for instant comfort for a fussy infant. This clever carrier isn’t just for toting your little one—it doubles as a breastfeeding pillow, making it easy to feed them anytime, anywhere. It’s all about keeping things calm and comfortable for both you and your baby, no matter where your day takes you.

Needing a Diaper Change

Your little one’s fussiness might just be a call for a diaper change—although the smell usually gives it away, too. Not sure if your baby needs a diaper change? Trust your senses—if you smell something suspicious or notice the diaper looking heavy and droopy, it's a clear sign it's time for a fresh one. And if your little one’s getting fussy for no apparent reason, a quick diaper check might reveal the culprit.

Changing a diaper might not be glamorous, but it’s a skill you’ll master in no time. Here’s the play-by-play: 

• Lay your baby down, unfasten the diaper, and lift those tiny legs to clean up any mess—always front to back. Remember to still wipe after a pee to keep things fresh and avoid irritation.
• Swap in a fresh diaper, making sure it’s snug but not too tight, and secure it with confidence. 

Needing a diaper change can happen at any time, anywhere, so it’s best to be prepared. The Tushbaby Portable Diaper Changing Pad folds up small enough to fit in your pocket or Tushbaby Carrier, so you’re always ready if things get messy.

Illness

If your baby is extra fussy or crying for long stretches of time, they might be under the weather. 

The most common sickness you’re likely to encounter with your little one is a common cold—small sniffles that can feel like a big deal when it’s your little one. With their developing immune systems, babies are more susceptible to colds, and it’s not unusual for them to catch 6-8 colds in their first year. You’ll notice symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and maybe a slight fever, but rest assured, most colds are more of an annoyance than anything serious. Keep them comfy, offer plenty of fluids, and remember, those baby snuggles are the best medicine. Tushbaby’s four carrying positions help you carry them longer and more comfortably as you soothe and feed, and when they want to be put down, just pop them off the seat.

Overtiredness

Your baby might be fussy because they’re just plain tired. Whether they’ve skipped a nap or are coming down with a cold, fatigue can make anyone cranky. Understanding how much sleep your baby needs at different ages is essential to taming those fussy moments.

Newborns need about 14-17 hours of sleep a day, and they’ll catch those Z’s in short bursts throughout the day and night. As they grow, they’ll start consolidating sleep into longer stretches, but don’t be surprised if they still need 12-15 hours of shut-eye. Just remember, sleep for babies isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality, too. 

If your little one seems unusually exhausted, it’s a good idea to check in with your pediatrician to rule out any bigger issues. After all, the more they snooze, the happier they’ll be (and the more you might get to sleep, too).

Is My Baby Colic or “Normal Crying”?

The million-dollar question: is it colic or just “normal crying”? If your baby seems to be crying more than usual and nothing seems to soothe them, you might be dealing with colic. Colicky babies often cry for hours on end, usually in the late afternoon or evening, and can be inconsolable despite your best efforts. 

A sign that your baby may have colic is if they cry more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week, over a period of 1 week or more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that colic is temporary and reaching out to your pediatrician can provide peace of mind and practical tips to get through this phase.

On the flip side, the “normal crying” of a fussy baby typically has a clear reason—hunger, a dirty diaper, or just needing a cuddle. 

What ages are babies most fussy?

Most babies hit their fussiest stage between 6 weeks and 3 months old. This period, often dubbed the "fourth trimester," is when they’re adjusting to the big, bright world outside the womb. 

It’s perfectly normal for your little one to be extra clingy and cranky during this time. While it can be exhausting, remember that this too shall pass. Keep those cuddles coming, and don’t hesitate to lean on your support network. If you’re passing your little one off to a helping hand, bring along your Tushbaby carrier—the adjustable waistband and built-in back support ensure comfort and support while offering baby a familiar smell in a new set of arms.

Why is my baby fussy at night?

Your little one’s accumulated fatigue and overstimulation from the day can make for an extra fussy baby. Hunger, a need for comfort, or just the struggle to wind down can all contribute to those evening meltdowns. 

Babies are still figuring out their internal clocks, so nighttime fussiness is par for the course. Try creating a calming bedtime routine and a cozy sleep environment to help them settle. Hang in there—peaceful nights are on the horizon.

Parenting is a rollercoaster, especially with a fussy baby. But we’ve got your back—literally. At Tushbaby, our products are designed to bring comfort and convenience when your little one is having a meltdown.

The Tushbaby Carrier is your new go-to for those “why is my baby so fussy?” moments. It saves your back and provides relief while keeping your baby close and content. 

Dealing with a fussy baby? Shop Tushbaby today for stylish solutions to your parenting challenges!