If you’ve ever watched your baby go from calm to scratching wildly as soon as bedtime hits, you’re not alone. Many newborns seem to become itchier or more irritated during the night, and it’s not just in your head. Nighttime can trigger a range of responses in a baby’s developing body that lead to more scratching, especially in little ones with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

In this post, we’ll walk through the reasons why newborns tend to scratch more at night, what role the Moro reflex and self-soothing play, and how you can keep your baby comfortable through the night.

Newborns do scratch more at night. 

While it may seem sudden, there are several biological and behavioural reasons scratching increases during bedtime. Here's why

1. The Moro Reflex – A Startle That Leads to Scratching

The moro reflex (also called the startle reflex) is a completely normal, involuntary response in newborns. When startled by a sound, movement, or even a shift in sleep position, babies suddenly throw out their arms and open their hands. This reflex can lead to flailing, rubbing, and accidental scratching, especially if their nails are sharp.

What helps:

• Fold-over mittens or scratch sleeves
• Swaddling (for babies under 2 months)
• Using soft, skin-friendly sleepwear with covered cuffs

2. Scratching as a form of self-soothing

Some babies scratch, rub, or tug at their skin as a way to comfort themselves. Just like thumb-sucking or hair twirling, it becomes a repetitive, soothing habit, especially during moments of drowsiness or early sleep.

Important note:
If your baby has eczema, this self-soothing method can lead to broken skin or flare-ups. Keep an eye on patterns and gently redirect when possible.

What helps:

• Give baby a gentle lovey or soft sensory comfort item
• Keep nails trimmed to reduce scratching damage
• Use soothing sleepwear made from calm-touch fabrics like silk or bamboo

3. Skin dries out more at night

As babies sleep, their bodies naturally lose more moisture through the skin. This is called transepidermal water loss, and it happens more at night when the skin barrier is vulnerable. For babies with dry or sensitive skin, this leads to intense nighttime itchiness.

Try this:

• Moisturise right after a bath to lock in hydration
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free cream made for baby skin
• Dress baby in breathable, moisture-regulating fabrics like bamboo or silk

4. Babies’ body temperature rises slightly at night

Newborns experience a natural rise in body temperature during sleep, which can make itchy skin feel even itchier. For babies with eczema, the warmth of a sleep sack or blanket can sometimes trigger flare-ups.

Helpful tips:

• Keep the room cool and comfortable (around 20–22°C)
• Avoid overheating with too many layers
• Choose lightweight, breathable sleepwear

5. They're more aware of discomfort at night

During the day, your baby is busy taking in the world, lights, sounds, cuddles, and feeds. But at night, in a quiet, dark environment, any itchiness or discomfort becomes more noticeable. Just like adults who suddenly feel an itch once they get into bed, babies feel it too.

6. How to Help Your Baby Sleep More Comfortably

Watching your baby scratch at their face or neck in the middle of the night can be upsetting, but there are ways to ease their discomfort:

• Dress them in soft, breathable, skin-friendly fabrics
• Use fold-over mittens or scratch-proof sleepsuits
• Keep nails trimmed and filed smooth
• Moisturise daily, especially after warm baths
• Swaddle newborns (if age-appropriate and safe) to reduce reflex-driven flailing
• Use a calming bedtime routine to reduce overstimulation

At Honey & Stitch, we design garments that help soothe irritated skin, all made from OEKO-TEX certified bamboo and 100% mulberry silk. Our sleepwear is soft, tag-free, and designed to protect your baby’s delicate skin during the most sensitive hours: bedtime.

Final Thoughts

Yes, your newborn may scratch more at night, but with the right routine, materials, and a bit of understanding, you can help ease the itch. Every baby is different, but with gentle, skin-safe solutions, your nights can get calmer (and so can theirs).

Explore our eczema-friendly collection or follow us @honeyandstitch_official for more real-life mum tips 💛

Photo credit: Enrique from Pexels