The period of PURPLE crying is when babies cry more than usual and are hard to settle. It’s normal and temporary.

PURPLE stands for:

• Peak - crying is often worst at 6–8 weeks, then gets better by 3–4 months
• Unexpected – it can start without warning
• Resists soothing – your baby may keep crying, even when you soothe them
• Pain – They may look like they’re in pain or gassy, even if they’re not
• Long-lasting – crying can go on for hours
• Evening – crying can be worse in the late afternoons or evenings.

If you think your baby is in the 'PURPLE crying' stage, talk to your local doctor or a child and family health nurse. Share the strategies you have tried, and they might suggest some additional ideas or checks for your baby.

This is a period of adjustment for parents, carers and babies. Follow your baby's lead, rather than going by a schedule or routine in the first few months.

Every baby is different. What works one day may not work the next. Give each strategy time before trying something else.

First, check their basic needs:

• feed if hungry
• cuddle for warmth and love
• check and change nappy
• make sure they’re not too hot or cold
• swaddle if they’re not yet rolling.

Holding your baby close gives them warmth, comfort, and security. Your baby may feel calm from the warmth of your body, the sound of your heartbeat, and the sound of your voice.

Try things like:

• holding your baby close and still
• facing them inwards or outwards
• avoiding picking them up and putting them down too often
• letting them nap on you during the day while you are alert and sitting up
• talking or singing gently
• trying skin-to-skin contact.

Some babies are soothed by movement. 

Try things like:

• rocking or carrying them with slow, steady movement
• patting gently on the back or bottom
• using a pram or baby carrier for a walk
• trying a swing, rocker or bouncer for a maximum of 30 minutes, always on the floor
• going for a drive with your baby harnessed in a properly fitted car seat.

Sucking is a natural reflex that your baby has. It can help them calm down, settle, and stop crying. 

Try things like:

• letting your baby suck on their fingers or hands
• trying a swaddle or sleep sack that has their hands upwards to give them access to their hands
• breastfeeding your baby for comfort
• trying a dummy – you may need to try different types.

Avoid giving your baby extra infant formula feeds for comfort.

A bath and a massage can help your baby relax. Including them in the bedtime routine can teach your baby to associate them with sleep. Some babies may not like baths at first but may enjoy them more as they grow.

Try things like:

• loosely swaddling your baby in a muslin wrap before holding them in the water
• playing gentle music
• using baby-safe lotion or oils to massage your baby after bathing
• massaging your baby by gently and firmly rubbing their tummy, back, legs, and arms in circular motions.

Always test the water temperature with your wrist or a bath thermometer before bathing your baby.

Never leave your baby alone in the bath.

Sometimes, a change in environment can make your baby unsettled.

Try things like:

• adjusting their clothing or room temperature
• playing white noise or soothing sounds
• singing to your baby, or recording yourself singing to play at a low volume
• using soft nightlights in different colours
• using baby gadgets that vibrate or shake, always under close supervision.

Caring for a crying baby is hard. If you are feeling stressed, you can try:

• calling in support and taking turns soothing your baby with a partner, friend or family member
• using deep breathing strategies to calm yourself
• using light earplugs to reduce the noise slightly.

Remember, it’s ok to put your baby down in a safe place, like a bassinet or cot, and go into another room for a short break if you are feeling overwhelmed and distressed.

If you've tried all strategies and your baby is still crying, just lying next to them and speaking softly can help. Let your baby know you understand they're having a hard time. Tell them you love them and that things will get better.

Never shake or hit your baby. Shaking or hitting a baby is abuse and can cause serious injury, lifelong disability, and death.

Parents and carers need to fill their own basic needs. Self-care helps you stay calm and safe while caring for your baby. If possible, ask a partner, friend, or relative to help. You can also include your baby in self-care activities to make it easier for you.

Ideas for self-care:

• have a shower or bath: put baby in a safe place within arm’s reach, in a bouncer or on a playmat
• use a sling or carrier: settle baby while walking or doing light tasks
• play music: soft music and dim lighting can soothe you both
• multitask: listen to podcasts, scroll, read or watch a show while feeding or settling
• filter advice: get tips and support from trusted professionals, rather than large online groups.

Crying is usually normal. However, sometimes it can lead to problems or indicate that something is wrong.

Speak to your local doctor if:

• your baby’s cry changes suddenly or sounds unusual
• they refuse to feed
• they have new symptoms like fever or vomiting
• you feel like nothing works
• crying is affecting your relationship or mental health
• you are worried about your baby’s health or safety.