No One Prepared Me For The Witching Hour

If you’ve ever found yourself pacing the hallway at 7pm with a red-faced baby who won’t stop crying - welcome to the witching hour. It’s that mysterious stretch of time, usually between 5pm and 10pm, when otherwise content newborns suddenly turn fussy, clingy, and inconsolable. And no, it’s not reserved only for Halloween. It’s not talked about much, but almost every parent encounters it.

And if you’re in the thick of it, this article is here to help..

What Exactly Is the Witching Hour?

The “witching hour” isn’t a medical term, it’s parent-speak for when babies become unusually unsettled at the end of the day. Even if they’ve been fed, changed, and cuddled, many newborns will still cry for what feels like hours. It usually starts around 2–3 weeks old, peaks at 6–8 weeks, and often eases by 3–4 months.

Why Does It Happen?

While there’s no single answer, experts suggest a few reasons:

• Overstimulation: By evening, your baby has taken in a full day’s worth of sights, sounds, and sensations. Their tiny nervous system can get overwhelmed.
• Tiredness: It’s often the time when babies are most fatigued meaning they are paradoxically, hardest to settle.
• Cluster Feeding: Babies sometimes feed more frequently in the evening, both for comfort and to “tank up” for a longer night stretch.
• Developmental Adjustment: Their immature digestive and nervous systems are still learning how to regulate.

How to Survive the Witching Hour

The witching hour can test even the calmest parent. Here are some strategies that may help:

• Wear Your Baby: A carrier or wrap keeps your baby close while freeing your hands.
• Try Motion & Sound: Rocking, bouncing, white noise, or a calming lullaby can be soothing. Try a Riff Raff Comforter for the perfect soothing sounds.
• Dim the Lights: Lowering stimulation with a darker, quieter environment can help baby wind down.
• Offer Comfort Feeds: Even if they fed recently, cluster feeding is normal.
• Take Turns: If you can, share the load with a partner or support person. Step away for a breather if needed.
• Reset with a Bath: Warm water can sometimes work wonders on both baby and parent nerves. A Riff Raff Hooded Towel adds extra comfort with its luxuriously soft cotton.

A Note of Solidarity

The witching hour can feel endless, but it does pass. Your baby isn’t broken, and neither are you. This phase is temporary, even if the hours feel long at the moment. Remember: it’s okay to put your baby safely in their crib for a few minutes and step outside to breathe.

You’ve got this!