7 Reasons to Hire a Night Nurse

Hiring overnight care is an increasingly popular way to ease the stresses and demands of the newborn period. Hiring a “night nurse” is common phrasing for hiring a postpartum doula or newborn care specialist. These caregivers step in and take care of a baby overnight, typically while the parents sleep, and generally support families in adjusting to life with a newborn.

Getting enough rest during the early newborn days is one of the most anxiety-provoking aspects of becoming a parent, and for good reason: lack of sleep can take a toll on relationships, day-to-day functioning, and mental wellbeing. By seeking professional support, you can limit the impact of sleepless nights, speed postpartum recovery, and encourage infant bonding.

Beyond the obvious benefits of uninterrupted sleep, here are seven maybe not-so-obvious reasons to consider hiring a night nurse.

1. To Be the Village

It’s commonly said that it takes a village to raise a child; unfortunately, not everyone has immediate family members who are willing and able to take on the responsibility of caring for a newborn. Whether you live far away from family, they have their own health issues and work commitments, or you simply don’t want to ask, there is no shame in seeking professional support to work the night shift. 

Night nurses can be particularly helpful as an extra set of hands when you have multiples (twins, triplets, quads, and more!), or newborns who are medically fragile or born premature. In these cases, it may take more than friends or family occasionally helping out: you need  dedicated caregivers with a set schedule you can rely on, and that’s where a night nurse comes in. 

Further, evidence suggests that having a quality support network in the form of social, emotional, and practical support can help reduce the risk of postpartum mood disorders. Postpartum doulas in particular have advanced training that allows them to care for new mothers alongside new babies.

2. To Learn Newborn Care 101

Newborns don’t come with an instruction manual, and for first-time parents, the stakes can feel high to get everything right. Night nurses are experts in all things infant care, including diapering, swaddling, burping, bath time routines, and cord care. What’s more, they can help you learn to take care of your specific newborn: everything from how to tell if they’re getting enough to eat to what different sounds might signal. After caring for hundreds of babies, they can weigh in on what’s normal infant behavior, and what might require outside attention.

Perhaps most importantly, night nurses can help you put safe sleep practices in place to reduce the risk of SIDS. This might include a clear sleep space: a crib without loose bedding and no toys or pillows, an appropriate room temperature, and that baby goes down in a flat, back sleeping position. 

Having a professional in your home, even for just a few nights during the first weeks postpartum can do wonders to increase your confidence and know-how as a new parent, as well as enhance overall safety. 

3. To Help Manage Cluster Feeding

Cluster feeding is a common challenge for new parents, especially during a baby's growth spurts. Babies may want to feed constantly, leading to exhaustion for parents and disrupting normal sleep cycles. A night nurse understands the demands of cluster feeding and provides overnight assistance to help manage feeding sessions, ensuring both baby and parents get the rest they need.

By recognizing hunger cues and responding promptly, a night nurse helps maintain a steady feeding routine. Their experience allows them to soothe and settle a fussy baby after feeding, preventing unnecessary wake-ups. Whether you are breastfeeding, using expressed breastmilk, or formula feeding, a night nurse ensures that your baby receives optimal nutrition while allowing you to catch up on sleep.

4. To Encourage a Newborn Sleep Schedule

Establishing a healthy sleep schedule for your newborn is essential for long-term sleep success. Babies need support in developing their circadian rhythm and adjusting to wake windows. A night nurse helps implement a consistent nighttime routine, guiding your baby towards better sleep habits that benefit the entire family.

Through gentle sleep training methods, a night nurse teaches your baby to fall asleep more independently. They track sleep patterns, adjust care plans based on your baby's needs, and create a calm environment that encourages longer stretches of rest. With their expertise, parents can establish a more predictable and manageable sleep routine for their newborn.

5. To Stay Ahead of Baby Laundry

Baby laundry can pile up quickly, creating additional stress for sleep-deprived parents. Between spit-ups, diaper leaks, and frequent outfit changes, keeping up with the constant washing can feel overwhelming. A night nurse helps manage these household tasks, ensuring that your baby always has fresh, clean clothes ready.

Your night nurse can wash, fold, and organize baby clothes overnight, keeping the nursery tidy and well-stocked. They often ensure diapers are the right size and the changing table is organized for easier changes. Their assistance allows parents to focus on bonding with their baby rather than worrying about endless loads of laundry.

6. To Get an Overtired Baby to Sleep

An overtired baby can be difficult to soothe, often resisting sleep and displaying signs such as arching their back, crying uncontrollably, or only sleeping when held. Night nurses are skilled in recognizing these signs and breaking the overtired cycle, helping babies settle into restful sleep more easily.

Through calming techniques and an understanding of newborn sleep cues, a night nurse gently guides your baby into sleep. They create a relaxing sleep environment, encourage crib sleeping, and ensure that your baby stays comfortable throughout the night. With their help, parents no longer need to struggle with getting their baby to sleep at night.

7. To Help Transition Going Back to Work After Baby

Returning to work after maternity leave can feel overwhelming, especially when your baby is still waking frequently during the night. Balancing work responsibilities with newborn care is challenging, making a night nurse an invaluable resource. Their overnight care ensures that parents get adequate rest before resuming full-time work.

A night nurse helps establish a care plan that aligns with your schedule, ensuring a smoother transition back to work. They support working moms by managing nighttime feedings and sleep routines, reducing stress and exhaustion. With a trusted childcare provider handling nighttime duties, parents can focus on their careers while knowing their baby is in good hands.

How much is a night nurse?

Night nurse care ranges between $35 and $45/hr depending on the provider’s level of experience. Most families set up 8 to 10 hour shifts with their night nurse, anywhere from two nights to seven nights a week. Some companies offer benefits that can cover the cost of overnight care, so it’s a good idea to check with HR if you receive your insurance through your employer. Insurance coverage is also increasing for postpartum care, though not yet the norm in most states. HSA and FSA coverage may also be an option. Do your research or reach out to our team for more information and we can help you understand options.

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Before you decide to bring a night nanny into your home be sure to read through our Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Night Nanny for an in-depth approach to getting started. 

Hiring a night nurse isn’t just about getting more sleep; it’s about preserving your well-being, enhancing family dynamics, and ensuring your baby receives the best possible care. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider investing in overnight support—it can make all the difference in your postpartum journey.