7 Widespread Myths About Newborn Babies Many Believe in

Don’t fall for outdated advice. Discover 7 common newborn baby myths, debunked by experts, to help you parent with confidence and peace of mind.

Becoming a new parent is both magical and overwhelming. With every relative, neighbor, and social media post offering advice, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction—especially when it comes to newborn babies. From sleep routines to feeding practices, some long-held beliefs simply aren’t backed by science. And while these myths may be well-intentioned, they can lead to confusion, stress, and even unsafe practices.

In this article, we uncover 7 common myths about newborn babies, debunked by experts in pediatric health, infant development, and parenting. Whether you're a first-time parent or just curious about what’s true and what’s not, this guide will help you make more informed decisions. Say goodbye to outdated advice and hello to confident parenting—grounded in facts, not folklore.

1. Myth: You Can Spoil a Newborn by Holding Them Too Much

Truth: You cannot spoil a newborn baby by holding, cuddling, or comforting them.

Experts agree that holding and responding to a newborn’s cries helps build trust, security, and emotional health. Newborns are completely dependent on caregivers for survival—they don’t cry to manipulate. Instead, they cry to communicate hunger, discomfort, or the need for comfort.

Key insights:

·        Holding babies releases oxytocin (the bonding hormone) for both parent and child.

·        Responsive care strengthens attachment and emotional development.

·        Studies show babies who are comforted consistently cry less over time.

So, go ahead—cuddle your baby as much as you want. It's not spoiling; it's parenting.

2. Myth: Newborn Babies Need a Daily Bath

Truth: Newborns do not need daily baths. In fact, bathing too frequently can dry out their sensitive skin.

For the first few weeks, babies only need sponge baths a few times per week—until the umbilical cord stump falls off. After that, 2–3 baths per week are usually enough unless there are diaper blowouts or spit-up mishaps.

Why this matters:

·        Overbathing can strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation.

·        A gentle wipe-down of the face, hands, and diaper area is often sufficient.

·        Warm water and mild baby soap should be used sparingly.

Remember: newborn babies are not running marathons. They’re mostly just sleeping, feeding, and being adorable.

3. Myth: Babies Need Complete Silence to Sleep Well

Truth: Newborns often sleep better with soft background noise.

Inside the womb, babies are surrounded by rhythmic sounds: the mother's heartbeat, digestive gurgles, and muffled voices. That’s why many newborn babies actually find total silence unsettling. Soft white noise mimics the womb environment and helps calm the baby.

Benefits of white noise:

·        Helps mask sudden, disruptive household noises.

·        Soothes babies to sleep by providing a consistent sound environment.

·        Reduces sleep onset time and nighttime waking.

Using a white noise machine—or even a fan—can improve sleep for both baby and parents. Just keep it at a safe volume and distance.

4. Myth: Babies Should Sleep Through the Night Early On

Truth: It’s completely normal for newborns to wake multiple times during the night.

Newborn babies have tiny stomachs and need to feed every 2–4 hours—especially in the first few months. Sleep patterns mature gradually, and expecting an infant to sleep through the night too soon can set unrealistic expectations.

Important facts:

·        Night waking is biologically normal and even protective against SIDS.

·        Sleep “training” is not appropriate in the newborn phase.

·        Consistent routines help, but full-night sleep comes with time.

Let go of the pressure to “train” your baby in the first month. Instead, focus on safe, responsive nighttime care.

5. Myth: A Newborn’s Soft Spot Shouldn’t Be Touched

Truth: It’s okay to gently touch or wash your baby’s soft spot (fontanelle).

Many parents fear harming their baby’s soft spot, but the area is covered by a tough membrane that protects the brain. The fontanelle allows for brain growth and a safe birthing process, and light contact (like during bathing or cuddling) won’t cause harm.

What you should know:

·        Gently washing the head is completely safe.

·        You may notice the soft spot pulse—that’s normal!

·        If the fontanelle looks sunken or bulging, consult your doctor.

Don’t let fear stop you from caring for your baby’s head. Just use gentle handling and common sense.

6. Myth: Formula-Fed Babies Are Always Healthier and Sleep Longer

Truth: Formula and breast milk both nourish babies, but one isn’t inherently superior in sleep or health outcomes.

While some people believe that formula-fed newborn babies sleep longer or grow faster, studies show that sleep differences are minimal. What’s more important is feeding your baby responsively—whether that’s through breast milk, formula, or both.

Understanding the facts:

·        Breast milk contains antibodies and adapts to your baby’s needs.

·        Formula is a safe, regulated alternative that supports growth.

·        Sleep patterns depend more on individual baby biology than feeding type.

Fed is best. What matters most is that your baby is thriving and you're supported in your feeding journey.

7. Myth: All Newborns Develop at the Same Pace

Truth: Babies grow and develop at different rates—and that’s perfectly normal.

Milestones like smiling, rolling over, and babbling vary from baby to baby. Comparing your baby’s progress to others can lead to unnecessary stress. Pediatricians use general guidelines, but they know that each child develops on their own timeline.

What to remember:

·        Some babies roll over at 3 months, others closer to 6.

·        Development is influenced by genetics, environment, and health.

·        Red flags are rare but should be discussed with your pediatrician.

Celebrate your baby’s unique journey—there’s no one right path in early development.

Conclusion

Parenting is hard enough without the pressure of outdated advice. Knowing the truth about newborn babies helps you make smarter choices, reduce stress, and enjoy those precious first weeks more fully. Experts agree: trust your instincts, lean on reliable sources, and don’t be afraid to challenge old-school beliefs.

Want more expert-backed tips on baby care, sleep, or development? Explore our parenting library and stay informed at every stage of your baby’s journey.