Essentials for Your Baby's Calming and Effective Nighttime Routine

It's always nice to start your bedtime routine with an activity that signifies it's time to wind down. Bath time only happens once a day, so making it a part of your little one's bedtime routine will immediately communicate to your baby that it's almost time for bed. But that doesn't mean you can't get out some final giggles! The bath is a great place to work out some residual energy. Try these Flexi Bath Toy Cups ($14), which provide tons of entertainment and fun for babies of all ages and stages.

After a bath, try giving your baby a calming massage with baby oil ($10). Not only will it keep your baby's skin nourished and hydrated, but it will help your little one mellow out and relax. It's true! Massage encourages the nervous system to switch into its healing and relaxation state, called the "parasympathetic" phase, which explains why you fall asleep every time you get a professional massage, too.

It's a smart idea to give your baby's bottom an extra barrier to protect them from diaper rash while they sleep. Try applying a nourishing diaper cream ($23) as part of the nighttime ritual. This one has a blended scent of chamomile, sweet orange, geranium, and lavender, which can help promote melatonin before bed.

Nothing can make or break a nighttime routine like a diaper. Choose one you can depend on, like Pampers Swaddlers ($40) to keep your baby dry and comfortable all night long. They have up to 12 hours of protection, which means you won't have to worry about a wet diaper disturbing your baby's night.

Once bath time is over and pajamas are on, go ahead and set the mood. A night light ($179) is perfect for story time and emits a soft glow that will keep your baby peaceful while helping prepare their minds for sleep.

Now that the lights are turned low, it's time to cozy up with a good book ($5) or sing a song. The most important thing is that this last activity of the evening should help your little one totally relax before bed.