Imagine your baby’s been fed, burped, diaper-changed, and rested, yet her tears keep coming…An inconsolable baby is heartbreaking to hear, and it can create some serious hand-wringing for new parents.

Babies cry for all kinds of reasons, so whether it’s fatigue, overstimulation, or colic, here are some tips for soothing your baby’s tears. 

1. Make Some Noise

The womb is a noisy space, so babies love white noise like vacuums, running water, and washing machines. But instead of burning out your household appliances, pick up a white noise gadget or download an app you can use to calm your little one on the spot. And if you find yourself in the car with a wailing baby, try turning your radio to an AM station with static—sounds crazy, but it works!

2. The 5 S's

Dr. Harvey Karp’s method, detailed in his book The Happiest Baby on the Block, is a major go-to for new moms and dads. Dr. Karp’s tried-and-true method is built around the idea of recreating sensations from the womb: swaddling, side/stomach hold, shushing, swinging, and sucking.

3. Switch Positions

Dr. Robert Hamilton came up with “The Hold” and his video on how it calms babies in a jiffy is pretty impressive—no wonder it went viral! Also, hold positions that give babies gentle hand pressure on their belly is especially soothing for stomach discomfort and colic.

4. Peace & Quiet

An environment that is bright, loud or too busy can be over-stimulating for babies, so try to find a quiet space for you and Baby (white noise is great for drowning out unwanted noise).

5. The Great Outdoors

Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to go from crying to calm. Take a walk around the block, go to the park, or just step outside; sunlight helps regulate sleep hormones and the fresh air will do you both a world of good.

6. Moving Images

Bright, contrasting colors are fascinating to babies. Bust out some colorful fabric or try a crib mobile that plays peaceful sounds and projects images. There are apps like this one that display simple black and white images babies find relaxing.                    

7. Infant Massage

Infant massage has many benefits and works wonders to calm and soothe. You can make it a part of your baby’s daily routine (add in gentle leg movements, which are great for soothing gassy babies).

8. Get Moving

If your baby likes being in motion, go for a walk, take a drive, dance around, use a swing or infant seat, or try a rocking chair to give you both some rest.

9. Wear Your Baby

Babies love being right next to Mom’s body, and a baby sling or carrier gives you hands-free, tear-free time to get stuff done.  

10. Pacify Her

Sucking is a natural soothing measure for babies, so if yours isn’t a thumb sucker, grab a pacifier and give it a go. At this early stage, don’t worry about creating bad habits: calm and comfort for your baby is the goal.