Quick take: The witching hour usually begins around 2–3 weeks after birth, peaks at 6 weeks, and tapers off by 3–4 months. Babies may cry 2–3 hours a day, often in the late‑afternoon to early‑evening. Soothing strategies—swaddling, gentle motion, and feeding adjustments—can help, and you should call a pediatrician if crying exceeds 4 hours daily or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or a change in feeding.
It’s 7 p.m., the house is quiet, and you hear that familiar, high‑pitched wail echoing from the nursery. You’ve been there before—those long, exhausting evenings when your newborn seems inconsolable. You’re not alone; many parents label that period “the witching hour.” In this guide we’ll unpack exactly what the witching hour is, when it typically starts and stops, how long it lasts each day, and what you can do to navigate it with confidence.
Understanding the witch‑hour baby age when starts stops can turn those frustrating nights into manageable moments. We’ll explore the science behind the crying, compare it to colic, discuss how feeding method influences the pattern, and give you a toolbox of soothing techniques. By the end, you’ll know the normal range of crying, when to seek help, and how to support both your baby and yourself.
Let’s dive in—starting with the moment most parents wonder, “When does the witching hour start for newborns?”
When does the witching hour start for newborns?
The witching hour typically begins when a baby is about 2 to 3 weeks old. This timing aligns with the infant’s neurodevelopmental milestones: the brain’s arousal systems start maturing, and the gastrointestinal tract is still adjusting to feeding. In the first few weeks of life, babies spend most of their time sleeping and feeding, but as they become more alert, they may experience brief periods of heightened fussiness.
One mother we spoke with described the shift: “At first, my baby was quiet most of the day, but around three weeks, the evenings became a marathon of crying. I felt helpless until I learned it was the witching hour.” This experience is common, and recognizing the typical start age helps set realistic expectations.
Why does crying increase around 2–3 weeks?
Several physiological changes converge at this age:
- Gut motility is still developing, and gas can build up, leading to discomfort.
- Sleep cycles become shorter, and newborns transition between light and deep sleep more frequently.
- Neural pathways for self‑soothing are not yet fully formed, so babies rely on caregivers for regulation.
These factors create a window where a baby may be more prone to crying, especially in the late afternoon to early evening—the classic witching hour timeframe.
What is the witching hour in babies?
The witching hour is a period—usually lasting 2–3 hours—when many infants become unusually fussy, cry more intensely, and are difficult to soothe. It most often occurs between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., though the exact timing can vary. The term was popularized by pediatricians to describe this predictable pattern, distinguishing it from other causes of crying.
How long does the witching hour last each day, and how many minutes of witching hour per day?
On average, the witching hour accounts for about 2 to 3 hours of crying each day, which translates to roughly 120–180 minutes. However, the exact duration can fluctuate. Some babies may cry only 30 minutes, while others can reach up to 4 hours. The pattern often peaks at 6 weeks and begins to decline by the third month.
Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) indicates that the median crying time for infants aged 2–12 weeks is about 2 hours per day, with the most intense periods occurring in the evening. This aligns with parental reports and helps set a benchmark for what is typical.
Witching hour baby schedule 2 months
At two months, many babies follow a predictable schedule:
- 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Onset of the witching hour; baby may become increasingly irritable.
- 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Peak crying; caregivers often try multiple soothing techniques.
- 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Crying usually tapers off, leading into a longer sleep stretch.
Understanding this timeline can help you plan calming routines and anticipate the most challenging window.
Tips to reduce witching hour crying at night
While the witching hour often occurs in the early evening, its impact can spill into nighttime sleep. To minimize nocturnal crying:
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine—dim lights, soft music, a warm bath.
- Offer a dream feed (a late‑evening feeding) if your baby is hungry.
- Use white noise machines to mask sudden sounds that might startle the infant.
- Ensure the baby’s diaper is clean and the room temperature is comfortable (68–72 °F or 20–22 °C).
These steps can help transition the baby from the witching hour into a more restful night.
Signs that a baby is in the witching hour phase
Identifying the witching hour helps you differentiate it from other causes of crying. Typical signs include:
- Time of day: Crying spikes in the late afternoon to early evening.
- Duration: Crying episodes last 30 minutes to several hours, often without a clear trigger.
- Intensity: Cry is high‑pitched, urgent, and may be accompanied by clenched fists.
- Response to soothing: The baby may calm briefly with rocking or feeding but quickly resumes crying.
When these patterns appear consistently, it likely indicates the witching hour rather than an acute issue.
What is normal crying amount during the witching hour?
Normal crying during the witching hour ranges from 30 minutes to 3 hours per day. The AAP notes that most infants cry for a total of about 2 hours across a 24‑hour period during this stage. Crying that exceeds 4 hours daily or is accompanied by other symptoms (fever, vomiting, poor weight gain) warrants a pediatric evaluation.
How to soothe a baby during the witching hour
Soothing a baby during the witching hour can feel like an endless trial, but several evidence‑based strategies can make a difference. Below is a toolbox of techniques, ranked by ease of implementation and effectiveness.
Swaddling and gentle pressure
Swaddling creates a womb‑like environment that can calm the startle reflex. Use a breathable blanket and ensure hips can move freely to avoid hip dysplasia. A study from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics highlights swaddling as a top soothing method for infants under 4 months.
Movement and rhythm
Rhythmic motions—rocking chairs, stroller rides, or infant swings—provide vestibular stimulation that can reduce crying. The key is consistency; a steady, gentle pace works better than abrupt movements.
Feeding adjustments
Sometimes the witching hour is linked to hunger or overfeeding. Offer a brief, extra feeding if the baby seems unsettled, but avoid over‑feeding, which can increase gas. For breastfed infants, a quick “cluster feeding” session (feeding every 1–2 hours) can help settle the baby.
Holding your baby against your bare chest releases oxytocin for both parent and infant, promoting calm. This method is especially valuable if you’re feeling exhausted—the shared warmth can be mutually soothing.
White noise and soothing sounds
Background sounds that mimic the womb—white noise, heartbeat recordings, or soft lullabies—can mask sudden noises that trigger crying. Keep the volume below 50 dB to protect hearing.
Comforting touch and massage
Gentle infant massage, focusing on the belly, back, and limbs, can relieve gas and promote relaxation. Use a small amount of hypoallergenic oil and follow a slow, rhythmic motion.
When to use a pacifier
Pacifiers can satisfy a baby’s innate sucking reflex and reduce crying. The AAP recommends offering a pacifier at nap and bedtime for infants under 6 months, provided breastfeeding is well‑established.
Combining several of these strategies—swaddling, rhythmic motion, and a calming environment—often yields the best results.
What age does the witching hour typically end?
Most babies see a marked decline in witching hour episodes by 3 to 4 months of age. By this point, their digestive systems mature, sleep cycles lengthen, and they develop better self‑soothing abilities. Some infants may still experience occasional evening fussiness up to 6 months, but the intense, prolonged crying of the witching hour generally resolves.
One mother shared, “By the time my baby turned three months, the evenings were calmer. We still had some cranky moments, but they never lasted for hours like they used to.” This reflects the typical trajectory.
Witching hour baby schedule 2 months vs 4 months
These trends are general; each baby’s pattern can vary.
Differences between newborn crying, witching hour, and colic
Understanding the nuances among these crying patterns is essential for appropriate reassurance and care.
Newborn crying vs. witching hour
Newborn crying is often brief, linked to immediate needs such as hunger, a dirty diaper, or temperature discomfort. It typically occurs throughout the day and night without a predictable time slot. In contrast, the witching hour is a concentrated, predictable period of heightened fussiness that usually occurs in the early evening.
Witching hour vs. colic differences
Colic is defined by the “rule of threes”: crying for >3 hours per day, >3 days per week, for at least three weeks, often without an obvious cause. While the witching hour can involve several hours of crying, it usually resolves by 3–4 months and is not as relentless as colic. Colic may persist beyond the typical witching hour age and is less tied to a specific time of day.
Below is a comparison table summarizing key distinctions:
Research indicates that the witching hour occurs in both breastfed and formula‑fed infants, but the pattern can differ slightly. Breastfed babies may experience more frequent feeding bouts, which can lead to shorter, more clustered crying episodes. Formula‑fed infants sometimes have longer feeding intervals, which may result in longer periods of hunger‑related fussiness.
A 2023 review by the American Academy of Pediatrics noted that while the overall incidence of the witching hour is similar across feeding methods, breastfed infants often show a slightly earlier peak (around 5 weeks) compared to formula‑fed infants (around 6 weeks). However, the total daily crying time does not differ significantly when proper feeding techniques are used.
Formula‑fed babies typically cry about 120–150 minutes per day during the witching hour, comparable to breastfed infants. Adjustments in feeding volume and schedule can help reduce excessive crying. If a formula‑fed baby seems consistently hungry, a pediatrician may suggest a modest increase in daily intake or a change in formula type.
When to seek a pediatrician for prolonged witching hour
While the witching hour is usually harmless, certain warning signs call for professional evaluation. Contact your pediatrician promptly if you notice any of the following:
- Cry lasting >4 hours per day for more than two weeks.
- Fever (temperature ≥100.4 °F or 38 °C) accompanying crying.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to feed.
- Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight.
- Changes in skin color (e.g., bluish lips) or breathing difficulties.
- Persistent crying that disrupts parental sleep and daily functioning.
These symptoms could indicate an underlying medical issue such as infection, reflux, or a metabolic disorder, and should be assessed by a pediatrician or, if needed, a pediatric gastroenterologist.
What is normal crying amount during the witching hour?
During the witching hour, crying that totals 2–3 hours per day is considered within the normal range for most infants. The AAP’s guidelines suggest that crying up to 4 hours daily may still be typical, but beyond that, especially if accompanied by other concerning signs, a medical evaluation is advised.
Remember that each baby is unique. Some may have brief, mild episodes, while others experience longer bouts. Tracking crying duration in a simple log can help you spot trends and share accurate information with your healthcare provider.
Myth vs. fact
Myth: The witching hour means something is wrong with my baby.
Fact: The witching hour is a normal developmental phase that most infants experience, usually resolving by 3–4 months.
Myth: Only breastfed babies have a witching hour.
Fact: Both breastfed and formula‑fed babies can experience the witching hour; feeding method may influence timing but not overall incidence.
Myth: If I can’t stop the crying, the baby has colic.
Fact: Colic involves prolonged crying (≥3 hours per day) for weeks and may persist beyond the typical witching hour timeframe; the witching hour is usually shorter and resolves earlier.
Key takeaways
- The witching hour baby age when starts stops is typically 2–3 weeks for onset, peaks at 6 weeks, and ends by 3–4 months.
- Average crying during the witching hour is 2–3 hours per day (120–180 minutes), most often in the late afternoon/evening.
- Both breastfed and formula‑fed infants experience the witching hour; feeding adjustments can help manage duration.
- Soothing techniques—swaddling, rhythmic motion, skin‑to‑skin contact, and white noise—are effective for most babies.
- Seek pediatric care if crying exceeds 4 hours daily, is accompanied by fever, vomiting, weight loss, or changes in breathing.
- Tracking crying patterns can provide useful data for your pediatrician and help you feel more in control.
Frequently asked questions
What is the witching hour in babies?
The witching hour is a predictable period, usually in the late afternoon to early evening, when many infants become unusually fussy and may cry for 2–3 hours. It typically starts around 2–3 weeks of age and eases by 3–4 months.
How many hours a day do babies spend in the witching hour?
Most babies cry for about 2 to 3 hours per day during the witching hour, which translates to roughly 120–180 minutes. Some may cry less, while others can reach up to 4 hours, especially at the peak around 6 weeks.
At what age does the witching hour stop?
The witching hour generally diminishes by the time a baby is 3 to 4 months old. By this age, the infant’s digestive system and sleep cycles have matured, reducing the frequency and intensity of evening fussiness.
Can the witching hour be a sign of colic?
While the witching hour and colic both involve crying, colic is defined by crying for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for at least three weeks. The witching hour usually resolves by 4 months and is less severe than colic.
What are effective ways to calm a baby during the witching hour?
Effective strategies include swaddling, gentle rocking, skin‑to‑skin contact, white noise, offering a brief feeding, and infant massage. Combining several methods often yields the best results.
Is it normal for a baby to cry for several hours during the witching hour?
Yes, crying for 2–3 hours during the witching hour is considered normal. However, if crying exceeds 4 hours daily or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or poor weight gain, you should contact your pediatrician.
Formula‑fed babies may have slightly longer intervals between feedings, which can influence the timing of the witching hour, but overall crying duration is similar to breastfed infants. Adjusting feeding volume and schedule can help manage fussiness.
When to see a doctor / specialist
If your baby’s crying pattern includes any of the following red‑flag signs, schedule a pediatric appointment promptly:
- Cry lasting more than 4 hours each day for more than two weeks.
- Fever (≥100.4 °F or 38 °C) accompanying crying.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to feed.
- Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight.
- Changes in skin color (bluish lips) or breathing difficulty.
- Persistent crying that interferes with parental sleep and daily functioning.
These symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition such as gastroesophageal reflux, infection, or metabolic disorder. Your pediatrician may refer you to a pediatric gastroenterologist or a developmental specialist if needed.
Remember, this article provides general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always discuss your baby’s specific situation with a qualified healthcare provider.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics. “Crying in Infants: When to Seek Help.” AAP Clinical Report, 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Developmental Milestones: Infancy (0–12 months).” CDC, 2022.
- World Health Organization. “Infant Feeding Guidelines.” WHO, 2021.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Normal Newborn Behavior.” ACOG Committee Opinion, 2022.
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Infant Crying and Feeding Patterns.” Nutrition Evidence Review, 2023.
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. “Understanding Colic and Crying.” NICHD, 2022.
- American Academy of Pediatrics. “Infant Feeding: Breastfeeding vs. Formula.” AAP, 2023.
- International Pediatric Association. “Guidelines for Infant Sleep and Soothing.” IPA, 2022.
