CALMING DOWN A BABY 6-9 MONTHS

What are the best ways to soothe a fussy baby? 6-9 months

Crying is still a normal communication tool at this age. Babies cry for hunger, when they are tired, new teeth, separation anxiety, overstimulation, or discomfort. The AAP reminds parents that responding with comfort builds trust.

Step 1: Check the basics

  • Hunger or thirst
  • Teething discomfort
  • Wet or dirty diaper
  • Overtired
  • Too warm or cold
  • Bored or overstimulated

Step 2: Try soothing techniques

Comforting movements:

Rocking, bouncing, or walking with baby in your arms or carrier can calm overstimulation.

Teething: 

Cold washcloths, teething rings, or gentle gum massage may help.

White noise:

Soft white noise or shushing can help babies settle, especially at bedtime.
Offer a pacifier:

Pacifiers can help regulate emotions and reduce SIDS risk during sleep.
Fresh air:

A short walk outside in a carrier or stroller can be very calming for both parent and baby.

Bonding:

By 6–9 months, separation anxiety is common. Holding, cuddling, and soothing your baby is developmentally appropriate.

When to call a provider

  • Fever (follow clinician guidance, often ≥ 100.4°F/38°C)
  • Persistent high-pitched crying
  • Baby is hard to wake
  • Crying more than 2 hours with no clear cause
  • Signs of pain or illness

Citations:

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Soothing your baby.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). Teething.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). White noise machines and infants.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Pacifiers and infant sleep.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Infant soothing and comfort.

Are pacifiers OK to use? 6-9 months

Yes:

pacifiers are safe to use at this age, and many babies find them comforting. You don’t have to use one if your baby isn’t interested, but it’s completely okay if they enjoy it.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also shares that using a pacifier at naps and bedtime can help lower the risk of SIDS

Why pacifiers can be helpful:

They can make sleep safer:

Offering a pacifier when putting your baby down to sleep has been linked to a lower risk of SIDS.

They help babies calm down:

The CDC explains that sucking is a natural way babies soothe themselves, especially when they’re tired or overwhelmed.

They can comfort babies who are teething:

Many babies like the extra chewing and sucking during teething.
Things to remember:

Feeding:

By 6–9 months, breastfeeding or bottle-feeding is usually well established. Pacifiers at this age do not typically interfere with feeding.
See more from La Leche League.

Don’t force it:

If your baby spits out the pacifier or doesn’t want it, that’s okay.
And once they fall asleep, you don’t need to put it back in.

Keep pacifiers safe:

The AAP recommends:
No strings or cords around the neck

  • Use a one-piece pacifier
  • Replace pacifiers if they look worn or cracked
  • Keep them clean

Think long-term

Pacifiers are safe for now. If your baby still uses one after age 2–3, your dentist may talk with you about slowing down use.

Pacifiers are a safe and easy tool for comfort at this age.

If your baby likes them, great. If not, no problem.

Follow safe sleep guidelines, keep pacifiers clean, and use what works for your family.

Citations: 

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Pacifiers and infant sleep

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Pacifier safety tips.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). Teething

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Infant soothing and comfort.

La Leche League International. (2023). Pacifiers and breastfeeding.

American Dental Association. (2024). Pacifiers.