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Bedtime routine · United Kingdom

Baby bedtime routine: what to include and how long it should take

A good bedtime routine does not need to be elaborate. The best one is the one you can repeat calmly every evening.

Key takeawayBuild a simple bedtime routine that supports easier settling.
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Keep it short and repeatable

Think bath or wash, pyjamas, feed, cuddles, song or story, then bed. The exact steps matter less than the consistency.

Use cues, not perfection

A familiar routine helps your baby recognise that bedtime is approaching. It does not need to work like magic every night to be useful.

Protect the atmosphere

Dim lights, lower noise and fewer sudden transitions usually help.

Important: every baby's sleep is different. Avoid one-size-fits-all promises, and always put feeding, growth and safer sleep first.
Safer sleep reminder. For babies, use a firm, flat sleep surface and follow the latest safer sleep advice from the NHS and The Lullaby Trust.

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Frequently asked questions

How long should a bedtime routine be?

For many babies, 15 to 30 minutes is enough.

Should bath time be every night?

Only if it works for your family. A routine does not need a bath to be effective.

Can a bedtime routine fix everything?

No, but it supports better timing and calmer settling.

Reference sources: NHS baby sleep guidance · The Lullaby Trust safer sleep information. Last updated: 28 October 2026.