Why The latest TikTok Sleep Trend Is NOT the Answer
We all know that social media is full of quick-fix parenting hacks; you may even have seen the latest trend: butter for baby sleep. It can be tempting to try these things, especially if you’re already sleep deprived. However, you need to know that not all of these parenting hacks (or advice) are backed by science—or even safe.
If you haven’t already caught it, I’m talking about one of the most recent trends making the rounds on TikTok that suggests that feeding babies a spoon of pure butter before bed can help them sleep through the night. Videos promoting butter for baby sleep have gained millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, which just shows you that parents will try almost ANYTHING to help their baby sleep.
But you also need to know that paediatricians and sleep experts are raising red flags about this butter for baby sleep hack.
If you’ve come across this advice (or even if I’ve now put the idea into your mind), here’s why you should think twice before trying butter for baby sleep — and what you can do instead to help your baby sleep better.
The Risks of Feeding Butter to Babies Before Bed
Butter may be a staple in many households, but it is not an appropriate sleep aid for young infants. Here’s why:
1. Poor Nutritional Impact
Butter is high in saturated fats and really has no sleep-inducing properties. According to pediatric nutritionists, infants need balanced nutrition for proper development, not an excess of fats with little to no essential nutrients.
2. Choking Hazard
Butter is soft, but a spoonful of it can still pose a choking risk, particularly for younger babies who are just starting solid foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents to introduce appropriate solid foods in safe textures and sizes, avoiding anything that could cause a baby to choke.
3. No Scientific Basis
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that butter helps babies sleep. In fact, no food on its own can magically promote sleep. Sleep is regulated by circadian rhythms and good sleep habits, not dietary fat intake.
4. Potential Digestive Discomfort
Many babies have sensitive digestive systems and giving them a concentrated dose of fat before bed could lead to stomach discomfort, gas, or even diarrhea—none of which are conducive to a restful night’s sleep.
So. for me, that’s a big fat NO for using butter for baby sleep.
What Really Helps Babies Sleep?
Instead of following social media fads, parents should focus on evidence-based sleep strategies. Here are some key practices that truly make a difference:
1. Creating an Ideal Sleep Environment
Babies sleep best in a cool, dark, and quiet room. Blackout curtains, a comfortable sleep sack, and a white noise machine (used at a safe volume) can help create the perfect sleep setting. More HERE.
2. Following a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Establishing a predictable sequence of step-by-step calming activities—like a warm bath, reading a book, or singing a lullaby—helps signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. Why is this a good idea? Check it out HERE.
3. Encouraging Self-Settling Skills
Helping babies learn to fall asleep independently is a big key to better sleep. This doesn’t mean letting them cry for hours but rather teaching them to settle themselves in a way that is appropriate for their age and temperament. Now, I know self-settling has got a bad rap, and I’ve written about that previously HERE.
4. Watching for Sleep Cues and Awake Windows
Signs of sleepiness—like rubbing eyes or ears, yawning, or becoming fussy—indicate it’s time for bed. Putting babies down at the right awake window helps them connect their sleep cycles more effectively. Honestly. email me (kim@cherishedsleep.co.nz) if you’d like a napping and wake-time guide for your baby. I can email you a cheat sheet for free!
5. Feeding at the Right Times
If your baby is waking frequently at night due to hunger, adjusting daytime feedings to ensure they get enough calories during the day can help. But adding unnecessary fats before bedtime really isn’t the answer.
Final Thoughts: Stick to Science, Not Social Media Trends
I get it, I do. It’s tempting to try quick fixes like butter for baby sleep, especially when you’re a tired parent. however, not all advice circulating online is safe or effective. Feeding a baby butter before bed is not a proven sleep solution and you may do more harm than good.
Instead, focus on tried-and-true sleep strategies that support healthy sleep habits. If you’re struggling with your baby’s sleep, consider reaching out to me for personalized guidance. Or download my free tips at the bottom of my website home page HERE. I also offer free initial calls, so we can see if we’re the right fit. Book a FREE call HERE.
Sleep is essential—for both babies and parents—and the right approach makes all the difference.
Sleep well,
Kim x