Search results

Many parents tell me the same story: "The maternity care said a sleep sack is not allowed for a newborn baby." As a neonatal nurse with nearly 30 years of experience working with newborns, I guide parents daily on feeding, sleeping, and safety questions. Recently, I have been receiving more questions about sleep sacks for newborns. That is why I revisited the Dutch guidelines and scientific literature. The short answer? Yes, a newborn baby may sleep in a sleep sack, provided it fits well, is suitable for newborns, and is used correctly. In fact, both Dutch and international guidelines consider a well-fitting sleep sack a safe choice within safe sleep recommendations. Where does the confusion come from? Many maternity nurses advise a made-up bed with a sheet and blanket during the first days after birth. This is often related to temperature control. In the first days of life, close attention is paid to how a baby regulates their temperature, and a blanket is easy to adjust. However, this does not automatically mean that a sleep sack is unsafe or should not be used according to the guidelines. The national guidelines do not differentiate between newborns and older babies regarding the use of a well-fitting sleep sack. The emphasis is on a safe fit, the correct size, back sleeping position, and preventing overheating. What do the Dutch guidelines say? The Dutch JGZ guideline for SIDS Prevention explicitly mentions the use of a sleep sack as a safe sleep option. VeiligheidNL also recommends the use of a well-fitting sleep sack as part of a safe sleep environment within "The 4 Safe Sleep Principles." Additionally, KCKZ (Knowledge Centre for Maternity Care) states that a well-fitting sleep sack can be even safer than sleeping under a sheet and blanket, as the head cannot become covered by bedding. JGZ Guideline for SIDS Prevention VeiligheidNL – The 4 Principles of Safe Sleep KCKZ – Safe sleeping and sleep sacks Why is a sleep sack considered safe? Lower risk of head covering One of the main risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the head becoming covered by loose bedding. A systematic review published in Archives of Disease in Childhood showed that head covering is a significant avoidable risk factor for SIDS. Because a sleep sack does not require loose blankets, this risk is reduced. Less chance of uncovering Many babies move surprisingly much during their sleep. A sleep sack stays in place, while blankets can shift or be kicked off. Can it delay rolling onto the stomach Research shows that babies in a sleeping bag change position less easily during sleep. This can be especially protective during the period when babies are learning to roll over. Possible protective effect against SUDI A Dutch study from 2021 found that sleeping bag use was associated with a lower risk of SUDI (Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy). Factor Effect Duvet use Increased risk Tummy sleeping Increased risk Sleeping bag use Protective effect Sleeping in the parents' room in their own bed Protective effect Breastfeeding Protective effect Our merinowool sleeping bag is designed with safety as the starting point At Moalie, we deliberately chose a narrow neck opening, a safe fit, and soft merinowool that helps keep your baby comfortably warm. View the merinowool sleeping bag When is a sleeping bag safe for a newborn? 1. The neck opening must fit well A baby should never be able to slip down inside the sleeping bag. Always check that the head cannot possibly slide through the neck opening. 2. The armholes must not be too large Too large armholes can cause a baby to slip down. The armholes should fit well without being tight. 3. Use the right size Do not buy a sleeping bag for growth. A sleeping bag that is too large increases the risk of a baby slipping down inside it. Always choose a size that fits your child's length. 4. Pay attention to your baby's temperature Regularly check how warm your baby feels at the neck. The neck provides a more reliable indication of your baby's comfort than hands or feet, which often feel cooler. Dress your baby appropriately for the room temperature and prevent your child from becoming too warm. 5. Back sleeping remains the guideline A sleeping bag does not change the most important rule of safe sleep: always lay your baby on their back to sleep. Why we chose an extra narrow neck opening When we developed our merinowool baby sleeping bag, safety was paramount. Not only from my role as an entrepreneur, but especially from my background in neonatology. One of the most important points we looked at is the neck opening. We deliberately kept it narrow so that a newborn baby cannot slip down. During testing, I often use a reborn doll with a head circumference of about 35 centimeters, similar to many newborn babies. Even this head does not fit through the neck opening. This gives parents extra assurance that the sleeping bag fits well and can be used safely from birth. Why merinowool is pleasant for young babies Besides safety, comfort naturally also plays an important role. Merinowool is known for its unique properties: Temperature-regulating Breathable Moisture-wicking Gentle on sensitive baby skin Suitable for multiple seasons Merinowool helps retain warmth when needed and releases excess heat and moisture when a baby feels warmer. As a result, many babies feel comfortable across a wider temperature range than with many synthetic materials. Would you like to learn more about the benefits of merinowool? Then also read our detailed page on merinowool for babies. Safe sleep starts with a well-fitting sleeping sack Our merinowool sleeping sack is designed based on nearly 30 years of neonatology experience. It features an extra narrow neck opening, natural temperature regulation, and a comfortable fit for young babies. Check the sleeping sack Frequently Asked Questions From what age can a baby sleep in a sleeping sack? A baby may sleep in a well-fitting sleeping sack from birth, provided it is suitable for newborns and used correctly. Is it safe for a newborn to sleep in a wool sleeping sack? Yes. A wool sleeping sack made of merinowool can be suitable for newborns, provided the size is correct and room temperature is taken into account. Is a sleeping sack safer than a blanket? A well-fitting sleeping sack has the advantage that there are no loose blankets that could cover a baby’s face. Why does my maternity nurse say a sleeping sack is not allowed? Some maternity care organizations have their own protocols during the first days after birth. This does not automatically mean that a sleeping sack is unsafe according to national guidelines. Can my baby get too warm in a sleeping sack? Always check how warm your baby feels at the neck. This gives a more reliable indication than a chart or fixed value. Adjust the clothing layer under the sleeping sack based on room temperature and how your baby feels. My advice as a neonatology nurse With nearly 30 years of experience in neonatology, I always consider the whole picture—not just the sleeping sack, but the entire sleep environment. Choose a well-fitting sleeping sack. Use the correct size. Regularly check your baby’s temperature at the neck. Always place your baby to sleep on their back. Keep the crib free of loose items such as stuffed animals, pillows, and duvets. The key question is not whether you use a sleeping sack, but whether it fits well and is used safely. A well-fitting sleeping sack can be a safe and comfortable choice for your baby from birth. Sources Glover Williams A, Finlay F. (2019) Moon RY et al. (2022) JGZ Guideline for SIDS Prevention VeiligheidNL – The 4 Principles of Safe Sleep KCKZ – Beware of unsafe sleeping bags and sleep sacks Blair PS et al. (2008) ISPID Factsheet Sleeping Sacks Kanits F et al. (2021)

If your baby starts crying as soon as the bottle appears, turns their head away, or pushes the nipple out with their tongue, that feels really tough. You think: but they’re hungry, right? Am I doing something wrong? I know that uncertainty well. In nearly 30 years as a neonatal nurse and baby coach, I have supported many babies with feeding problems—and perhaps even more often their parents, who worried, felt powerless, or lost confidence. What I always say first: you are not alone. And no, this does not mean your baby is difficult or that you are doing something wrong. A baby with bottle aversion rarely develops it without reason. There is almost always something behind it. Sometimes something physical, sometimes emotional, sometimes related to what your baby has experienced around feeding before. Whatever the cause: your baby is showing something. Not to upset you, but because feeding right now doesn’t feel comfortable, safe, or manageable for them. In this blog, I calmly explain what bottle aversion is, how to recognize it, what causes there may be, and what you can do—without extra struggle on your lap. What is bottle aversion? Bottle aversion means a baby has developed a clear dislike of the bottle. This can develop gradually or seem to happen suddenly. A baby who used to feed well suddenly refuses the bottle, becomes restless at the sight of the nipple, or only takes small amounts. Some parents say: “My baby suddenly refuses the bottle completely.” Others say: “My baby drinks poorly from the bottle, but I don’t understand why.” What I see in practice is that it rarely happens “suddenly.” There have almost always been earlier signs—a feeding that was a bit more difficult, more crying, a bit more tension at the table. These were not noticed, which is completely understandable. Bottle aversion goes beyond a normal phase of reduced appetite. You notice tension around every feeding moment. Your baby seems alert or tense as soon as they realize feeding is about to happen. Sometimes they only drink when half asleep, or better at night than during the day—because there is less tension then. Bottle aversion is not stubbornness. It is a protective reaction from a baby who has come to associate feeding with discomfort, pressure, or stress.  If you recognize this, know that you don’t have to keep trying based on feeling alone. Sometimes it helps to look together at what exactly happens during feeding, so your baby can regain trust in the bottle. You can read more here about how I support parents with this. That’s an important difference. Because when you understand that the resistance is a signal, you’ll also look differently at what helps. How do you recognize bottle aversion? Not every baby shows it the same way. The signs often start subtly and become clearer over days or weeks. Parents usually first notice that feeding becomes “troublesome.” What used to come naturally now takes more and more effort. Common signs: your baby turns his head away as the bottle approaches he pushes the nipple out with his tongue he cries, stiffens, or arches backward during feeding he grabs the bottle briefly and quickly lets go again he only drinks when he’s almost asleep or completely distracted he seems hungry but still doesn’t want to drink feeding moments last long and feel tense What I see many parents do — and it’s very understandable — is keep trying new things. Another position, another walk around, offering the nipple one more time. You do it out of love. But your baby can experience that as extra pressure. What many parents don’t immediately notice either: they are already tense before the bottle even goes in. It’s understandable that you feel this way — because every feeding moment has gone differently than you hoped recently. But babies are very sensitive to what’s going on inside you. Parents often tell me they have already tried so much — the pediatrician, the speech therapist, sometimes multiple hospitals — and still didn’t get any further. That feeling of helplessness while watching your child reject what they need is perhaps the hardest part of it all. If you recognize this: that’s exactly the situation where I see parents shift from exhausted to relieved — as soon as they understand what is really going on. Situation Temporarily drinking less Possible bottle aversion Duration A few feedings or a short phase Recurring for days to weeks Reaction to the bottle Variable, sometimes drinking normally Clear resistance or tension Emotion during feeding Some restlessness Crying, turning away, stiffening Drinking behavior Less volume, but still acceptance Refusing, stopping, only drinking while asleep Parental intuition A bit of puzzling Increasing worries and struggles Recognize this? Then it’s good to know you don’t have to figure it out on your own. In my bottle aversion e-book I will guide you step by step through what is really going on — so you no longer have to doubt or search, but understand what your baby needs.  Especially if you notice that each feeding is becoming more stressful. For many parents, this is the moment when calm returns around feeding. Causes of Bottle Aversion The causes of bottle aversion are rarely singular. Often multiple factors play a role simultaneously. That’s why it’s so important not to conclude too quickly that your baby “just isn’t hungry” or “is going through a phase.” 1. Physical Causes Think of reflux, pain when swallowing, thrush, a milk flow that is too fast or too slow, earache, or a blocked nose. A cow’s milk protein allergy or tension in the mouth area can also play a role. I often see this in practice: a baby has had uncomfortable feedings for weeks due to reflux, which has been treated, but the resistance around the bottle remains. The physical problem is gone, but the association is not. Premature babies or babies with a medical history are sometimes extra sensitive in the mouth and throat area. If drinking was previously associated with nausea, breathlessness, or tube feeding, that can still have an effect later. I regularly support parents of premature babies where bottle aversion developed after months of tube feeding. The way back to the bottle then requires patience and a very specific approach — but it is possible. 2. Sensory and Emotional Sensitivity Some babies are naturally more alert and sensitive to stimuli. For them, feeding can become more difficult if there is too much noise, light, rush, or unrest. That baby is not difficult — they are showing that at that moment they have too much going on to be able to drink. What I see: such a baby drinks fine in a quiet room with one trusted person, but misses the bottle as soon as there are visitors or the situation is slightly different. That says something about what they need, not about what is wrong. 3. Negative Association This is one of the most common causes of bottle refusal. If a baby experiences multiple times that drinking is accompanied by pressure, tension, or discomfort, they learn: the bottle = something unpleasant. And that almost never happens because parents do something wrong out of unwillingness. It happens precisely because you want so much for your baby to get enough. You offer the bottle once more. You try again. You keep hoping for that one bottle that goes well. It’s understandable that you experience it this way — but for your baby, that pattern can actually strengthen the resistance. 4. Developmental Leap Around a few months old, babies become more alert. They feed less automatically and are more sensitive to what’s happening around them. If an unpleasant experience occurs during this period, the step toward bottle aversion can come more quickly. What I often hear from parents who have already been through a long process: "We had seen so many professionals, we were skeptical to try again." I completely understand. When you’ve already been to the pediatrician, the speech therapist, and the hospital without answers, trust in help can be hard to find. Yet it’s precisely then that it’s valuable to find someone who specializes in bottle aversion — not as a side skill. Why "just keep going" often doesn’t work You’ve probably heard: "He drinks when he’s really hungry" or "Don’t give in, just hold on." I understand where that comes from. But with bottle aversion, that approach almost always backfires. If feeding already causes tension, pressure only makes it worse. This also applies to subtle pressure — holding the bottle to the lips again, following your baby when they turn away, tensely waiting for every sip. The more tension a baby experiences around the bottle, the greater the chance that resistance increases. That doesn’t mean you should stop feeding your baby. It means that how you offer makes the difference between building more trust or causing more resistance. A baby who senses their signals are taken seriously relaxes sooner. And relaxation is the foundation for feeding. What can you do as a parent? If your baby drinks poorly from the bottle or refuses it, the solution is rarely to try harder. Often it helps to take a step back, observe more carefully, and ease the pressure of the moment. What can help: Look at the bigger picture first. Are there signs of pain, reflux, illness, or tummy troubles? If feeding suddenly changes, it’s wise to consider physical causes. Take stop signals seriously. If your baby turns their head away or closes their mouth — pause. Not because you give up, but to show: I see you. Release tension from the posture. Sometimes a different position, more skin contact, or a calmer transition to feeding helps. Fewer stimuli. Softer light, no background noise, no rush. Simple, but it makes a difference. Offer, don’t insist. Invite your baby instead of trying to convince them. It sounds like a small difference, but your baby feels it deeply. Observe when things actually improve. Sleepy? After a nap? With one particular person? Those moments provide valuable information. What also helps: looking at success differently. Not just how many ml went in, but also: could my baby stay relaxed? Could we stop without tears? Those small shifts are often the first step forward. Do you notice that you try these tips but still get stuck? Then it can help to look together. In my bottle aversion program, I look with you at what’s going on with your baby — calmly, step by step, without pressure. When is help needed? Sometimes you can already see improvement by observing more calmly and putting less pressure on feeding. But there are also times when extra guidance is simply wise. Get help if: your baby consistently drinks too little or has fewer wet diapers your baby loses weight or isn’t growing enough feedings cause daily struggles your baby cries a lot, chokes, gags, or seems to be in pain you notice that every feeding causes stress or exhaustion You don’t have to wait until it’s “bad enough.” Early observation prevents patterns from becoming fixed. And trust your instincts — if you feel something isn’t right, that’s reason enough to ask for help. What guidance looks like Many parents fear that help means even more pressure on feeding. I recognize that. But good guidance for bottle aversion is gentle and tailored to your baby. It always starts with careful observation. Not just how much your baby drinks, but the whole story: the history, the body language, the moments when things go wrong, and the moments when it goes just a little better. Part What the goal is Observation of feeding moments Seeing where tension or resistance arises Ruling out physical factors Understanding if pain or discomfort is involved Learning to read signals Understanding what your baby is telling you Adjusting the offer Reducing pressure, increasing safety Guidance for parents Restoring calm, support, and trust Such a program is not about pushing, but about healing. Safety, trust, a calmer feeding moment. Sometimes it happens quickly. Sometimes it takes time. But parents often feel relief sooner when they understand why their baby reacts this way. What I hear back from parents after a program touches me every time. Like a mother who, after months of hospital stays, tube feeding, and much sadness, wrote: "We have a super relaxed child now." Or a father who said that bottle feeding is now a celebration for the whole family — even though his son refused every feeding just two days earlier. That’s why I do this work. Frequently asked questions about bottle aversion in babies Is bottle aversion the same as not being hungry? No. A baby with temporarily less appetite can still respond relaxed to the bottle. With bottle aversion, you see resistance, tension, or avoidance as soon as the bottle appears. My baby only drinks while asleep. Is that a sign of bottle aversion? That can be. Sleepy babies are less alert to tension or negative expectations. It is an important signal to take seriously. Should I keep practicing if my baby refuses the bottle? Practicing is allowed, but not in a way that creates pressure. Insisting almost always increases resistance. Rather look at why your baby refuses the bottle and how to rebuild safety. Can the wrong teat cause bottle aversion? Not always completely, but it can help. A too fast or unpleasant teat can make drinking frustrating — especially for sensitive babies. Does bottle aversion go away on its own? Sometimes it improves when a temporary cause disappears. But the longer the tension around the bottle remains, the more the pattern can become fixed. It’s wise to actively look at what is involved. My baby drinks from the breast but not from the bottle. What now? Explore what makes a difference — position, milk flow, smell, mouthfeel, emotional association. That your baby accepts the breast says nothing about stubbornness. It says something about what makes the bottle situation difficult. When should I really be concerned? If your baby drinks too little, wets less, loses weight, or looks clearly unwell. And trust your parental intuition. If you feel something is wrong, that is reason enough. Summary A baby with bottle aversion almost never just puts the bottle down for no reason. Behind bottle refusal is often a combination of physical discomfort, sensitivity, tension, or a negative experience. This can show as turning away, crying, stiffening, taking small sips, or only drinking while asleep. If your baby refuses the bottle or drinks poorly from it, the core issue is rarely: try harder. Rather: understand better. By taking signals seriously, reducing pressure, and carefully examining causes, space for calm can return. As a neonatal nurse and baby coach, I support parents in exactly these kinds of situations. Not with a fixed protocol, but by carefully observing your baby and your situation. If you feel you want support with this, you can read more about what that looks like on the page of my bottle aversion program. And if you prefer to read calmly first and work on it yourself, my e-book is a good first step — practical, relatable, and without pressure. You don’t have to do this alone! 

You place your hand on their foot. Cold. You hesitate. Another blanket? A thicker sleep sack? Or are they actually perfectly comfortable, and will you wake them up with all the fussing? Almost every parent I speak to knows this moment. And almost everyone starts checking in the same place: the hands and feet. That is precisely the place that tells you the least. Why hands and feet can mislead you During the first few months, a baby's circulation is still maturing. The body prioritizes the organs in the torso—the heart, lungs, and liver. To do this, the blood vessels in the hands and feet constrict slightly. The result: cool hands and feet are normal for babies, not a warning sign. A baby can be perfectly warm and still have cold toes. Slightly bluish hands can also occur in the first few weeks and are usually harmless. I have seen countless parents hesitate by the incubator because their baby's feet felt cool, even though the measured temperature was exactly right. It is one of the most persistent misconceptions in baby care. The neck check There is one place that is reliable: the neck, between the shoulder blades. Gently slide your hand into your baby's neckline, against their back. That is close to the body's core and far enough from the outside air. Comfortably warm and dry—your baby is just right. Do nothing. Clammy, damp, or sweaty—too warm. Remove one layer. Not two, and not the sleep sack. One. Noticeably cool—add one layer. A thin wool bodysuit under the sleep sack is usually enough. That is all it takes. Five seconds, and you know more than any chart could tell you—because you are checking your baby, in your room, at this moment. Do it once each evening, just before you go to bed. That is also when the room is already starting to cool down. Other signs that your baby is too warm Alongside the neck check, there are things you can see rather than feel: Damp hair on the neck or forehead Flushed, red cheeks unrelated to crying Breathing faster than normal at rest Restlessness and tossing without hunger or a full diaper being involved Red spots in the neck crease or on the back—heat rash Overheating is the risk that child health clinics in the Netherlands pay the most attention to. Not because babies are often too cold, but because they are too warm far more often than parents realize. An extra blanket, however well-intentioned, is the most common mistake. And what if your baby is too cold? You see this less often, but it does happen: A cool neck and back, not just cool hands and feet Pale or mottled skin on the torso and legs Unusual drowsiness—a baby who is difficult to wake for a feed Becoming restless early in the morning, around the coldest point of the night A baby who is consistently cold uses energy to stay warm. Energy they actually need to grow. In the neonatal unit, that was why we monitored temperature so closely: it is never just about comfort. Are you worried about your baby's temperature, or does something not feel right? Contact your midwife, maternity care provider, or child health clinic. This article is intended as practical guidance for dressing your baby—not as a substitute for medical advice. Why the material makes a difference The neck check tells you what is happening right now. But the night still lasts another eight hours. A Dutch bedroom often cools by three to five degrees between bedtime and the early morning hours. A cotton or synthetic sleeping bag does not respond to this—it provides exactly as much insulation at four in the morning as it does at eight in the evening. Merino wool works differently. The fiber absorbs moisture from the skin without feeling wet, then releases it into the air. This release uses heat, allowing the wool to adapt: it carries heat away as your baby warms up and retains air—and therefore insulation—as your baby cools down. Cotton does the opposite. It absorbs moisture, becomes damp, and damp fabric against the skin cools down. That is why a sweaty baby in cotton may end up cold later in the night. It is not a miracle cure, and it does not replace the neck check. But it makes the difference between one setting for the entire night and a material that breathes with your baby. What I would tell parents You do not have to be perfect at this. You only need to know where to feel. Most babies whose parents come to me saying “they sleep so restlessly” do not have a sleep problem; they have a temperature problem. Often one that is solved by removing one layer. Trust your hand on their neck. Not their feet, and not what your neighbor says about blankets. Frequently asked questions My baby always has cold feet. Should I put socks on them? Usually, it is not necessary. Cool feet are normal in babies and reveal little about their core temperature. If the neck feels pleasantly warm, your baby is comfortable. Baby booties are useful during the day when your baby is outdoors or in a cool space. What is the ideal room temperature for a baby’s room? In the Netherlands, 16 to 18 degrees is generally recommended for nighttime. Warmer is not better. If you cannot reach that temperature in summer, adjust the layers rather than forcing the room temperature. How often should I check that my baby is lying safely? Once each evening, just before you go to sleep, is enough for most babies. In hot weather or if your baby is ill, check more often. Do not wake your baby to feel their temperature — you can check the neck without waking them. My baby’s neck is sweaty but their hands are ice-cold. What should I do? Check the neck. Damp means too warm, even if the hands feel cold. Remove one layer and check again half an hour later. Can a baby get too warm in a wool sleeping bag? Wool wicks away heat and moisture and helps prevent overheating, but it is no guarantee. On warm nights, dress your baby in lighter layers under the sleeping bag — sometimes just a diaper. The neck check remains the best guide. Read more Which sleeping bag suits which room temperature? TOG rating for a baby sleeping bag: what it means How to keep your baby safely warm, day and night Everything to keep your baby warm →

If your baby hiccups regularly (especially after feeding), the first thing you probably feel is a mix of concern and sympathy. That little body jerking, those big eyes looking momentarily amazed. You wonder: is this normal? Am I doing something wrong? Should I have burped them better? After nearly 30 years at the bedside of newborns, I can reassure you: hiccups are one of the most normal things that can happen to your baby. And there is more to it than you might think. What happens inside your baby's body Hiccups occur due to a sudden contraction of the diaphragm, the muscle just below the lungs that plays a major role in breathing. As soon as that muscle contracts unexpectedly, the vocal cords close very quickly. That is the sound you hear. In adults, hiccups are a minor annoyance. In babies, it is something very different. Researchers at University College London discovered that every hiccup in a newborn baby causes a wave of brain activity. That activity helps your baby learn how to control their breathing muscles. In other words, hiccups are not a malfunction; they are practice. Your baby's nervous system is at work. This also explains why premature babies hiccup more often. Their nervous system is still developing and needs that extra practice. Why it happens so often after feeding A newborn baby's stomach is small (about the size of a marble in the first days). If your baby drinks quickly or takes in a bit too much, the stomach expands. Because the stomach is right under the diaphragm, it presses against the muscle. And then the hiccups start. In addition, babies swallow air while feeding, usually a bit more often with bottle feeding than breastfeeding. That air in the stomach puts extra pressure on the diaphragm. What I often see in practice: babies who drink quickly or have a fast milk flow hiccup more. Not because something is wrong, but because their body is reacting to what just happened. Frequently asked questions Are hiccups dangerous? No. Hiccups are almost always completely normal and harmless. What I always tell parents: you find it more bothersome than your baby. Babies hiccup, fall asleep, hiccup again — and hardly notice it themselves. When to consult a doctor: if hiccups come with a lot of crying during or after feeding, frequent spitting up, arching the back, or if your baby isn’t gaining weight well. This can sometimes indicate reflux, and it’s good to have it checked. Should I have burped better? This is a question I hear from parents very often, almost always with a sense of guilt. That’s unnecessary. Burping helps release air from the stomach, and that’s useful. But it’s no guarantee against hiccups. Research shows that extra burping doesn’t always prevent hiccups and can sometimes lead to a bit more spitting up. If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes of trying, that’s perfectly fine. Not every child burps easily, and that doesn’t reflect on how you’re doing. What can I do if my baby has hiccups? Honestly: most of the time you don’t need to do anything. Hiccups go away on their own, often within five to ten minutes. If you want to try something: Offer a pacifier. The sucking motion helps relax the diaphragm. Keep your baby a bit more upright during and after feeding. This reduces pressure on the diaphragm. Take small breaks during feeding so the stomach doesn’t fill too quickly. Gently rub the back, not to burp, but simply to relax. What not to do: startle your baby, hold their breath, or try other folk remedies meant for adults. They don’t work and can be unpleasant or even dangerous for a baby. What I always tell parents Hiccups may look uncomfortable, but your baby isn’t bothered by them. It’s a sign that the nervous system is developing, the brain is learning, and the little body is growing. Exactly as it should be. Give your baby a cuddle. Hold them upright for a moment. And know that this will pass on its own — just like many things in those first months that seem big but are part of a process unfolding just right. Do you have questions about feeding, burping, or your baby's behavior after a feed? As a neonatal nurse and baby coach, I am happy to help you think it through.  Sources Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Here's What to Do When Your Baby Has the Hiccups. health.clevelandclinic.org University College London (UCL). (2019). Newborn baby hiccups could be key to brain development. ucl.ac.uk American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). Baby Burping, Hiccups & Spit-Up. HealthyChildren.org. healthychildren.org Mayo Clinic. (2024). Infant acid reflux — Symptoms and causes. mayoclinic.org Kaur, R., et al. (2014). A randomized controlled trial of burping for the prevention of colic and regurgitation in healthy infants. Child: Care, Health and Development. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov OSF HealthCare. (2024). Why do babies get hiccups? osfhealthcare.org

"I absolutely cannot tolerate wool myself, so I won't put it on my child either." As a neonatal nurse and founder of Moalie I hear this regularly. And I completely understand it. Almost all of us have a memory of that one hand-knitted jumper from childhood that scratched terribly. If you know that feeling, you want to keep it far away from the soft skin of your newborn baby. And yet it is a shame to write off wool immediately. Because did you know that there is a big difference between "scratching" and an actual allergy? In this article I take you through the facts so you can make the best choice for your little one. The difference between irritation and allergy When parents say their baby is allergic to wool in 98% of cases it is not an allergy but irritation. This has everything to do with the thickness of the fibre. Imagine a human hair. When it is short and stiff it pricks. When it is fine and soft you can barely feel it. With wool it works exactly the same way. "Old-fashioned" wool fibres are often coarser (thicker than 30 microns). When such a fibre touches the skin it does not bend — it pricks into the skin. That causes that unpleasant itching and red spots. Why merino wool is different At Moalie we work exclusively with high-quality merino wool. The fibre of the merino sheep is many times thinner and finer than regular wool. The secret? This fibre is so fine that it immediately bends when it comes into contact with the skin. As a result it does not prick but instead feels like a silky soft second skin. Research even shows that superfine merino wool can reduce the symptoms of eczema because it lets the skin breathe and regulates moisture. Discover our merino wool collection and see for yourself. When is it actually an allergy? Does a wool allergy not exist at all then? It certainly does. A small group of people is allergic to lanolin (wool fat). This is the natural layer of fat found in sheep's wool. If your baby has been diagnosed with a lanolin allergy then wool is indeed not an option. Safety and comfort always come first. What is the best alternative? If your baby has a true allergy I am often asked: "What should I choose then?" My advice as a nurse: Choose cotton and preferably not synthetic. Synthetic fabrics (such as acrylic, polyester or fleece) are made from plastic fibres. They may be soft but they do not breathe. They trap heat which means your baby cannot release their warmth and starts to sweat. That feels clammy and uncomfortable. Cotton like wool is a natural product. Although it insulates less well than wool it does breathe and is gentle on the skin. Still not sure? If your baby has no confirmed allergy but you are hesitant due to previous experiences with scratchy jumpers? Then I can almost guarantee that merino wool will make a world of difference. The unique property of wool — regulating temperature, keeping your baby warm when it is cold and cool when it is warm — is simply unmatched by any other fabric. And every baby deserves that. Take a look at our merino wool baby clothing and find the perfect piece for your little one. With love, Daniëlle Neonatal nurse & Founder Moalie

What does science say – and what does your baby really need? There are those evenings when you have tried everything. You have fed, changed, carried, rocked. You have soothed, sung, and maybe even cried along. And yet your baby continues to cry inconsolably. As a parent, it can completely exhaust you. You may start doubting yourself. Am I doing something wrong? Is my baby in pain? Am I missing something? Let me say this first: you are not alone. And excessive crying occurs more often than you think. What is excessive crying? In the literature, there is often talk of excessive crying or infantile colic. Traditionally, the “3-rule” was used: more than 3 hours per day, more than 3 days per week, longer than 3 weeks. But modern insights show that crying behavior is much more individual than we used to think. The well-known crying curve by Brazelton (with a peak around 6 weeks) is now seen more nuanced. What is important to know: in the vast majority of cases, there is no medical cause for excessive crying. That does not mean it is “all in the head.” It means that crying is usually part of development. Why do babies cry so much? Crying is a baby’s most important means of communication. Besides body language, it is the way your baby can say: I am hungry I am tired I am in pain I am overstimulated I need you Often it is a combination. And it helps to recognize what kind of crying you are seeing. Different types of crying 1. Needs crying This is the most recognizable crying. There is often a clear cause: hunger, fatigue, a full diaper, or a need for closeness. When you respond to the need, the crying usually stops. 2. Overstimulation and the nervous system A newborn brain is still immature. The nervous system cannot yet regulate stimuli well. Especially towards the end of the day, you often see a peak: the day has been full of impressions, the rhythm is still developing, and your baby cannot yet “switch off.” What we experience as inconsolable is often a baby who is neurologically overstimulated. 3. Intestinal complaints and reflux Colic and reflux are often cited as the primary causes. At the same time, nuance is important. Intestinal cramps are often related to an immature gut flora, gas formation, and swallowing air during feeding. Reflux can occur because the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus is still immature. Not every crying baby has reflux or cramps, but for some babies, it does play a role. Then it’s helpful to look at the whole picture: feeding, posture, rest, and sensory processing. 4. Tension- or trauma-related crying Sometimes you see crying that suddenly becomes intense, where you have tried everything and nothing helps. The body can feel tense and some babies break eye contact. This type of crying can be extremely hard for parents. Sometimes crying is a release mechanism for tension. In those moments, your closeness is not “spoiling,” but a basic condition for safety. Let cry or comfort instead? Over the years, roughly two approaches have emerged: “cry it out” (extinction) versus a sensitive, responsive approach. My starting point is: secure attachment is biology. Closeness and security are essential for a baby to be able to regulate. Babies often cry less when they are carried sufficiently every day. Carrying provides warmth, rhythm, containment, and helps your baby settle into their body. Practical: what can you do? Check basic needs: hunger, tiredness (awake times), temperature, diaper, and a low-stimulation environment. Support the nervous system: work with a fixed ritual and help your baby switch to calm (think of containment, rhythm, and sound). Carry your baby: skin-to-skin, a sling or baby carrier can greatly help with regulation. Tummy massage for cramps: gentle techniques can help with relaxation and movement of the intestines. Take care of yourself: excessive crying can mentally exhaust you. You are allowed to ask for help. That is not failure. Containment and security Many babies who cry excessively benefit from physical containment. It helps the nervous system to regulate. Swaddling or “cocooning” can mimic the feeling of the womb: safe, enclosed, and without unexpected startle movements. In practice, some parents choose a combination: lots of carrying and contact during the day, and extra containment around sleep times. When you’re looking for a soft, breathable way of containment, a finely knitted Merinowool solution can be helpful. Merinowool regulates temperature and supports the body without overheating. At Moalie, you see this reflected in our snuggles (which can support as a cocoon during restlessness) and our 3-in-1 blankets (which you can use in various ways, including for containment and swaddling). It’s not about the product itself, but about what it enables: calm, containment, and safety. Would you like to look at this calmly? Then you can read further here: snuggles and 3-in-1 blankets.  When should you seek medical help? Contact your general practitioner or consultation bureau if there is fever, lethargy, poor feeding, weight loss, or when your baby cries continuously without rest periods. And perhaps most importantly: when you notice it is becoming too much for you mentally. My vision as a neonatology nurse and baby coach After nearly 30 years of experience, I see again and again: excessive crying is rarely one thing. It is often a combination of immature regulation, stimuli, nutrition, interaction, and parental tension. It does not require a quick trick, but observation, feeling, and attunement. And sometimes guidance. I have given training on this subject during the maternity care professional days at the RAI, to maternity nurses, pediatric and youth nurses. I was also involved in setting up a crying baby clinic in the Amsterdam region. Finally If you are reading this while your baby is crying beside you: breathe. Place your hand on your chest. And know that your presence already has a regulating effect. Your baby is not crying to manipulate you. He cries because he cannot do otherwise yet. And you are doing – even in the most difficult moments – better than you think. Read more? Excessive crying rarely stands alone. Sometimes sleep development, gut discomfort, overstimulation, or an immature nervous system play a role. That is why I have written several e-books in which I explain these themes step by step – practical, substantiated, and based on my experience in neonatology. Baby massage – gentle techniques to regulate tension and relieve colic Sleep regression – insight into neurological development and nighttime awakenings The witching hour – what happens in your baby's brain at the end of the day? Colic & reflux – when does the gut really play a role and what can you do? You can read them individually, or as a complete bundle to better understand the whole picture. View all e-books    Would you like personal guidance with excessive crying? Then take a look at my consultation options and e-books where I guide you step by step through what you can do. Request a consultation

In a world that never stops, it seems like even our littlest ones are never allowed to "shut down." Baby gym, music lessons, colorful sensory play – the sheer number of stimuli and activities is overwhelming. But in my 28 years as a neonatal nurse and baby coach with newborns, I've seen one thing time and again: the most beautiful growth happens in silence. Slowing down isn't a luxury. It's a fundamental need for a brain that's in full development. A brain in full bloom At birth, your baby's brain already has around 100 billion brain cells. The real magic begins afterward, when up to a million new connections are made every moment. This rapid process makes the brain vulnerable: too much stimulation can overload the system. In my work, I like to compare a baby's brain to a soft cocoon. Your baby needs time to process impressions. This processing requires calm, gentleness, and simplicity. The signs of overstimulation If your baby's surroundings become too noisy or boisterous, they'll start to give off signals: they might become tearful, look away, or even fall into a deep, almost unreachable sleep from sheer exhaustion. Chronic overstimulation can affect brain development, making it harder to regulate emotions and behavior later in life. Even screens, which seem so useful for creating a moment of calm, often offer images that change too quickly and simply overwhelm the young brain. The magic of 'doing nothing' It might seem like little is happening when your baby is simply still, but that's precisely when a huge growth spurt occurs. While your little one watches shadows dance on the ceiling or listens to the rhythm of your breathing, their brain strengthens connections and stores information. This "resting network" in the brain forms the foundation for later learning, a good memory, and self-awareness. Rest is pure brain gymnastics. Less is more (also in the box) Babies learn best from simplicity. A wooden spoon, the texture of a soft cloth, or a cardboard box stimulate creativity much more than electronic toys with lights and sounds. At Moalie, we embrace this simplicity. Our materials—the natural softness of merino wool and cashmere—don't irritate, but rather envelop your baby. They help regulate body heat, leaving them more energy to explore the world at a leisurely pace. Practical tips for slowing down together How do you bring peace back into a busy family life? • Schedule “white spots” into your day: times without toys or distractions when your baby can just be. • Rotate the toys: never offer everything at once. Two to three natural items are often more than enough. • Follow your baby's rhythm: a yawn or looking away is a clear invitation to take a step back together. • Cherish closeness: sing a song, look out the window together, and offer skin-to-skin contact. These are the feeding moments that truly help a baby's brain grow. Trusting the softness In our performance-driven society, slowing down almost feels like a radical act. But science—and my heart as a nurse—says the same thing: your baby thrives not on more, but on better and more meaningful stimuli. By pressing the pause button, you're giving your little one the greatest gift: the space to discover themselves and the world at a pace that suits them. These calm moments are not only good for your baby, but also exactly the peace and quiet you deserve as a parent. Love, Danielle