Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s first year, but it can be a tough one, especially when it starts disrupting sleep. Sore gums, fussiness, and late-night wake-ups can leave both baby and parents feeling exhausted.

In this post, we’ll walk through how teething affects sleep and share gentle, effective ways to support your little one (and get a little rest yourself!).

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, but some start earlier or later. Common signs of teething include:

• Drooling more than usual

• Red or swollen gums

• Chewing on hands, toys, or anything in sight

• Increased irritability

• Changes in feeding or sleep habits

How Teething Affects Sleep

Discomfort from teething can make it harder for babies to fall asleep or stay asleep. You might notice:

• Shorter naps

• More frequent night wakings

• Increased need for comfort and cuddles

While it’s temporary, these sleep disruptions can be challenging, especially if your baby was just starting to sleep longer stretches.

Sleep Tips for Teething Babies

Here are some simple ways to help your baby (and you!) sleep more peacefully during teething:

1. Stick to Your Routine

Even when teething disrupts sleep, try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine. Bath, story, cuddle, and down — the predictability helps soothe and prepare them for sleep.

2. Cool Teething Relief

Use a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a cold, damp flannel to soothe sore gums before bedtime. Teething gels or pain relief should be used only if recommended by your GP or health visitor.

3. Offer Extra Comfort

Rocking, cuddling, or nursing to sleep is OK during a teething phase — it’s all about comfort right now. This won’t undo your sleep progress in the long term.

4. Create a Calm Sleep Environment

Make sure the nursery is a peaceful, comforting space. Use blackout blinds, white noise, and a familiar sleeping space — like a well-supported cot bed or bedside crib — to help baby feel secure.

KUB Tip: Our Nursery Furniture is designed for comfort, safety, and soothing sleep, even during the fussiest teething phases.

5. Watch Wake Windows

Overtired babies struggle more with teething. Try to spot sleepy cues early and stick to age-appropriate wake windows to avoid over-tiredness.

Helping Parents Cope Too

Let’s not forget, it’s exhausting for parents too. Teething can feel relentless, especially when nights are long. Here are a few quick ways to look after yourself:

• Take turns with night wakings if you can.

• Lower expectations during rough phases.

• Fit in naps when your baby sleeps.

• Remember: it will pass.

The Bottom Line

Teething is tough, but with a bit of extra comfort and consistency, you can help your baby (and yourself) sleep a little easier. Gentle support, a calming nursery space, and small routines make all the difference.

You’ve got this - and we’re here for every sleepless, snuggly step.