Sleeping through the night is a baby milestone that many exhausted new parents dream about.

Progress may feel inconsistent in the first few months, but there are many reasons why your baby may be having trouble sleeping – and how you can help.

What is considered sleeping during the night?

For babies, “sleep through the night” is generally considered to be sleeping for at least six consecutive hours without a night feed.

While babies will wake up briefly – possibly more than once – during this period, they can fall asleep on their own. (Which means you I can finally rest well.)

When do babies sleep through the night?

Research suggests that many babies can sleep at least six hours at a stretch until about 3 months of age, or when they weigh 12 to 13 pounds.

According to National Sleep FoundationOpens a new windowan estimated 62% of babies sleep through the night by 6 months – a number that rises to 72% by 12 months. This is because by about 6 months, babies’ sleep cycles are generally more regular and predictable.

When yours Although a baby will sleep through the night, it varies, depending on a number of factors (including when they can go for long periods without a night feed).

“My firstborn didn’t sleep through the night until close to a year. He still gets up at night occasionally at 3,” she says BabyCenter Community Member Mama2b2023. “My second born, 7 months old, slept through the night (11am to 1pm) from 8 to 10 weeks. He’s only woken up maybe five times a night since then. Every baby is different.”

As you can see, there is a wide range of normal. Many babies do not sleep through the night at 6 months or even a year.

9 tips to get your baby to sleep through the night

Here are some tips to help your baby sleep through the night.

And if you want more specific advice from a pediatric sleep doctor, check out ours Baby Sleep 101 courseOpens a new window.

Your baby I can be a good sleeper

Get solutions from a top pediatric sleep doctor with our Baby Sleep 101 course

• Play during the day. Keeping babies active during the day helps them sleep longer at night.
• Be strategic with your naps. At 6 months of age, babies need two to three daily naps (one in the morning, one in the afternoon and maybe a third in the late afternoon). Learn and watch for signs that your baby is tired and needs to rest, and let her sleep as long as she needs. But if your baby has a third, late afternoon, try to cut it out of your routine until about 9 months so you can get her to sleep the night before.
• Set a consistent bedtime. Since you’re trying to get your baby on a more regular sleep schedule, it’s important to put your baby to bed at the same time every night. Monitor your baby’s rhythms – if he’s a night owl, set a later bedtime.
• Establish a routine. Bath, book, song, bed: bedtime routines are the secret sauce for baby’s sleep. It’s also a good idea to dim the lights and ensure your baby is in a calm and quiet environment about half an hour before bedtime.
• Do not rock your baby to sleep. Put the baby to bed sleepy but awake. This helps to avoid developing a dependency on you to fall asleep and makes it easier for your baby to fall back asleep on their own when they wake up at night.
• Teach your baby to self-soothe. As with adults, it is completely normal for a baby to wake up briefly several times during the night. But you can help your baby learn to go back to sleep by waiting a few minutes before responding to the disturbance. That way, they will have a chance to fall asleep on their own again.
• Try a pacifier. A pacifier can help your baby self-soothe, and using one at night has been shown to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Do not wake the baby to eat. After the first few weeks of life, many healthy babies who are steadily gaining weight do not need to wake up to feed during the night. If you do have to pick up your baby for a feeding or diaper change at night, keep the lights dim so you don’t wake your child up more than necessary.
• Consider sleep training. Sleep training can help your baby learn to self-soothe and sleep through the night. You can start sleep training starting at 4 to 6 months, when baby’s circadian rhythm and sleep cycles are better established and they are starting to fall asleep on their own. There are many different methods, from the “cry it out” method to the “fading” method. Choose the technique that works for your baby and family.

A note on sleep training from Liz Donner, MD, a pediatric nurse practitioner and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board: “The ideal training method will vary depending on parent preference, bedroom setup, presence of other siblings, age of child, etc. I personally believe that it is important for a child of any age to know that you are available if and when they need you. That doesn’t mean sleeping with you will give them the comfort and reassurance they need, even if it’s just a quick peck on the cheek.”

You may have heard that adding rice flakes to an evening bottle will help your baby sleep better or longer, but there is no evidence that it helps. In fact, it is a choking hazard and can cause constipation.

In addition, offering solid foods too soon can deprive your baby of the necessary nutrients in breast milk or formula. The American Academy of PediatricsOpens a new window (AAP) recommends that babies start solid foods when they are developmentally ready, usually around 6 months of age.

When do babies start sleeping longer?

Many babies start sleeping five to six hours by 3 months. At some point in the first year, your baby may sleep for nine to 12 hours without needing to eat, although this varies greatly from baby to baby.

My firstborn didn’t sleep through the night until close to a year. … My second born slept through the night from 8 to 10 weeks old. Every baby is different.

– Community member BabyCenter Mama2b2023

See how much sleep babies need at each age.

When do breastfed babies sleep through the night?

Formula-fed and breastfed babies are equally likely to sleep through the night by 6 months of age, research shows.

You may have heard that formula supplementation will help everyone sleep better. But the research is far from conclusive that formula use has any effect on a baby’s ability to sleep.

One recent study found that formula-fed moms got the same average hours of sleep as those who breastfed any amount when their babies were 3, 6, and 9 months old.

Exclusive breastfeeding, however, resulted in less sleep for mothers in the early months – although these differences disappeared when the babies were 9 months old.

Other studies, however, have shown that exclusively breastfeeding mothers actually sleep for 30 minutes more than those who are formula fed when their baby is one month old, with the same number of night wakings.

Breastfed babies tend to eat more often in the first few weeks, and breast milk is digested faster than formula. Plus, your baby absorbs and uses nutrients from breast milk better than those from formula—which is one of the many reasons why the AAP recommends exclusive breastfeeding, if possible, for the first six months of life.

Fortunately, biology provides a solution to some breastfeeding challenges. Breast milk contains hormones, including leptin and melatonin, that promote satiety and sleep in babies.

Breastfeeding mothers also produce the hormone prolactin, which helps them not only adjust to the stressful parts of caring for a baby—including sleep disruption—but also to sleep more deeply when they nap.

Bottom line: Don’t feel like you have to rely on formula to help your baby sleep better. If you’re able to exclusively breastfeed, you’re very likely to get close to the same amount of sleep as you would with formula—especially as your baby gets older.

7 reasons why your baby may have trouble sleeping through the night

There are a number of reasons why babies may have trouble sleeping through the night, which often differ depending on the age of your baby. This may include:

• Hunger. From birth to 3 to 6 months of age, babies need night feeding. And older babies are used to eating several times during the night, so they can continue to wake up to eat. If your baby is at least 4 to 6 months old, you can consider night weaning.
• Separation anxiety. Your baby may cry during the night because he is afraid that you are not there. Comfort your baby by gently touching his head and talking to him gently. That way, he’ll take comfort in knowing you’re there, but won’t associate fussiness with petting.
• Inability to self-soothe. Although it can be difficult at first, remember that you don’t have to react immediately when your baby is upset. In fact, letting your baby fuss for a few minutes allows her to learn the important skill of self-soothing and going back to sleep.
• Bed sharing. The AAP recommendsOpens a new window share a room but not a bed with the baby for the first six months. Bed sharing affects your baby’s ability to sleep through the night and increases the risk of SIDS.
• Sleep regression. Sometimes even the lightest sleepers can wake up again. Sleep regression is common at 4, 6, 8, 12, and 18 months, due to a number of factors.
• Teething. Just when you think you’ve made a decent stride with sleep, teething pain starts waking your baby up at night. This can happen as early as 3 months, but usually happens between 4 and 7 months. Stick to your normal sleep routine and remember, this too shall pass!

“We have a baby who now sleeps from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., but it took four days of sleep training and night weaning,” he says. BabyCenter Community member check 1. “Now we got a lot of rest, but it didn’t just happen – we had to change course ourselves!”

Not all babies will hit every sleep milestone all the time – that’s normal. However, if at any time you have questions about your baby’s sleep schedule (or lack thereof), talk to your baby’s healthcare provider.

This is an exhausting time for you too, so make sure you take care of yourself and see your doctor.

Instead of throwing away the ashes from your fireplace, consider using them in one of these smart ways in your home and yard. Not only is it a great way to save money, but it’s also a sustainable method of recycling that has many surprising benefits.

Allow the wood ash to cool completely, then collect and repurpose it to deodorize moldy spaces, remove excess moisture from the air, clean various materials, and more. Before you throw out a big pile of ash, consider these 12 uses for fireplace ash that are suitable for your home and garden.

When I was 25 weeks pregnant, my husband and I were thinking about going to Disneyland because we had just moved an hour from the parks. Normally, I would be looking forward to the rides, attractions, decadent treats, and quality time with Mickey Mouse, but I was afraid that when I spent time in the Happiest Place on Earth, I would feel like the most pregnant person on Earth.

In the end, we decided to wait until our baby was born to go to Cinderella’s Castle, but knowing what I know now, I wish we had gone back then.

Yes, there are some precautions you’ll need to take if you’re pregnant at Disney, but you still get a lot I can do (more than you think, actually!). Professional Disney moms and experts share how to pack and prepare, stay comfortable, and most importantly safe, while traveling to Disney Parks. A comprehensive proposal? Stay hydrated and have fun!

Time your trip right

The best time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester, between the 14th and 27th week. You’ll probably want to avoid parks when you’re feeling particularly nauseous in your first trimester or ready to pop in your third. Be sure to talk to your doctor before booking, especially if you are nearing your due date.

Pro tip: Disney parks are located in warm climates, which could be even hotter when you’re pregnant. Take advantage of baby care centers to cool off. Disney’s website has an easy-to-follow guide for the grooming centers at Disneyland, California Adventure, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.

Dress really comfortably

Your baby may not be making memories by your side yet, but she’s definitely still the main character on your journey. Before you hit the parks, follow BabyCenter moms’ advice on what to wear.

“I wore a belly band and was surprisingly fine with all the walking…” of Heidism

“It will be sticky, so even if you’re wearing shorts, you might want to wear riding pants so your thighs don’t rub against each other.” — ElizaDinh

“Wear a hat! I had to buy one at the Magic Kingdom and oh my lord. It made a huge difference!” — SamRdgzz

For advice: Even if you wear the most comfortable shoes, walking long distances during pregnancy can be difficult. Disney parks allow you to rent an electric transportation vehicle (ECV) such as a scooter or manual wheelchair. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan to arrive early. Visit Disney World and Disneyland guest services page on the Disney website to learn more about rentals.

Bring your own snacks and water

Did you know you can bring your own food into the Disney parks? Fill a backpack or even a cooler and you’ll save time and money throughout the day. Just be sure follow the rules of what you are allowed to have with you.

“I recommend that you take a watermelon with you as a snack. You can Uber eats or Instacart sliced ​​watermelon (and any other groceries) to your hotel and then bring it with you to the parks. Good for you for hydration, and (your child if you have one) too!” — ETJ813

“We did 4 days in the park with a 22-month-old child. I am currently 12 weeks. I also bought some Liquid IV powder to put in the water.” — Niš87

“I’m 17 weeks pregnant and just got back from Disney. We took a fabric cooler bag with Ziploc bags full of ice to keep our water cold all day. It fit in the bottom of the cart.” — quentinsmommy2008

For advice: Everyone knows how expensive a bottle of water is at Disney, but if you’re passing by a restaurant, go inside and ask for a free cup of water. If you’ve run out of snacks, you can too order in advance in several dining places, so the food will be waiting for you.

You’ll have to skip some rides, but here’s what you can do

“Always confirm with a cast member if the ride you’re going on is safe for pregnant women,” says Lauren Kerstner, MMSc, ​​PA-C, OB/GYN and Disneyland Magic Key holder (this is Disney lingo for their annual membership).

The My Disney Experience app can also provide you with readings on safe rides. When you download the app, apply the “physical considerations” filter to the attraction tab and select “advice for moms-to-be” to see which rides you can go on (and which ones you should avoid) while you’re pregnant, Kerstner says.

There are many rides that will be safe for pregnancy. Some favorites from the BabyCenter community include:

• It’s a Small World (Disney World and Disneyland)

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• Haunted Mansion (Disney World and Disneyland)

• Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (Disney World)

Also watch shows that will allow you to relax and spend some time in an air-conditioned room, suggests Kerstner. Her favorites? Storytelling at the Theater Royal in Fantasyland (at Disneyland) and PhilharMagic Mickey the Musical (at Disney World and Disneyland). Other attractions such as parades, fireworks and character encounters are also popular with expectant mothers and families.

For advice: Planning your route through the parks is key. Pick up a ticket at the park entrance or use your app to plan the bathroom stops, respite baby care centers, and food options closest to you. Disney World resort guests can travel to all four parks by bus, boat or monorail. Meanwhile, Disneyland hotels and theme parks are within walking distance.

Here’s a subtle downside to an even division of household chores.

My husband likes to do his share of the housework, and I have officially erased the notion that that makes him “modern” from my brain.

When we first moved in thirteen years ago, he insisted on buying two cordless Dysons, promising to vacuum often enough to justify the cost. He has. It’s also decent at laundry and can fix almost anything.

However, attempts to help outside the unwritten tapes can be more frustrating than anything else.

He washes the dishes but does not dry them

Since my husband hates bending over to unload the dishwasher (admittedly, he has back problems), he will often wash dishes the old-fashioned way, standing by the sink.

But for whatever reason, it won’t dry them. So the pile of dishes by the sink expands until someone (me, that’s me!) decides to wipe them down and put them away.

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He always chooses the wrong food storage container

When it’s time to dispose of the leftovers, I have to be quick. If I let my husband elbow his way into choosing a storage container, he’ll either pick something way too big or too small.

Either we end up with half a cup of foam in a gallon-sized container that eats up fridge space, or a multi-container storage situation where 96.3 percent of the chicken stew is in the middle container and 3.7 percent is in the secondary, doomed to be forgotten.

Never nest food storage containers properly

Placing and stacking food storage containers is key to maximizing cupboard space and ensuring ease of future use. So when someone just can’t get it right, it’s maddening. Due to my husband’s aversion to the dishwasher, putting away the food storage containers usually falls to me.

But if he gets the chance — while I’m commuting, say — he’ll undoubtedly put the food containers in the least sensible way, which means that within five minutes of getting home from a long trip, I have to rearrange them all.

Takes out the trash long before it’s full

Before my husband left on a recent work trip, he warned, “You’ll be surprised how often you have to take out the trash.”

I was not surprised. Once after five days, I removed the bag from the container, confirming my suspicion that my husband’s daily garbage and recycling collection was unnecessary.

Maybe he hates the idea of ​​trash piling up in the house. Maybe he doesn’t realize that excessive use of plastic trash bags is, well, wasteful. Maybe I should talk to him about this.

He puts things in the wrong place

Admittedly, I am very specific. I believe that everything has a home in the house – especially in the case of the pantry and refrigerator.

So when my husband makes a ham sandwich and the deli ends up in the cheese drawer of the fridge, I sigh. After discovering a bag of almonds in the chip drawer, I shook my head before returning the nuts to their snack shelf.

Let’s not talk about the time I discovered a container of leftover spaghetti in the cupboard where cups and mugs live.

He leaves treats at our child’s eye level

A sub-habit of the above is a tendency to leave chocolates and other treats out in the open, where my seven-year-old is sure to discover them.

We love treats! We are a dessert positive household. And I’m happy he’s trying to put things off. But no one should keep candy at child’s eye level, taunting them when they open the refrigerator door before dinner is served.

It adds funny items to my grocery list

I keep a grocery list in progress on a small yellow post-it note in the kitchen junk drawer. When I get to the store, I scan the list of items before I start my tour.

My husband’s handwriting almost always has something funny written next to our actual household necessities, like, “10 new spices!” or “all the meatballs!”

I honor these requests, which do not inspire confidence in my purchasing ability, at a rate of about 15% – except when the item on the passerby’s list is “love me”, which is both affordable and wonderful.

(Okay, this habit is tolerable.)

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – that is, until your adventurous crawler finds its way into grandma’s purse or big brother’s new toy full of very small pieces. Babies and toddlers love to explore, and you never know what dangers await them. This is especially true during the holidays when you’re hosting get-togethers or visiting friends and family in their not-so-baby-friendly homes. Unfortunately, thousands of children end up in the emergency room during the holiday season due to preventable injuries.

We even recently experienced this with my one-year-old, who showed us how quickly little ones can get into trouble when he pulled a plastic bag of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and gum out of a friend’s backpack during a recent outing. Luckily we were there and he was fine, but it was definitely scary how quickly things can happen.

You’ll want to be on high alert for the next few months and take a few extra precautions, says Darria Long, MD, an emergency room doctor, mom, and BabyCenter advisory board member. But knowing what to look out for before it becomes a safety issue will help keep your season merry and bright. Here’s what she says you should do to make sure your little ones are safe.

1. Do not put your baby to sleep in your crib

That’s right, if you’re coming home, don’t put your baby to sleep in the crib you grew up in, says Dr. Long – no matter how much your mom wants to see her grandchild in that vintage crib she pulled the attic out of! Crib standards have changed and improved significantly since 2011, so older cribs may have wide gaps between slats, drop sides or be made with lead paint.

Use a crib that is in good condition and certified by the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). How can you tell? Baby cots should have a sticker clearly visible on the side. You can also check the manufacturer’s website to be sure. Another idea? Use the package and play. If you fly and don’t want to drag others baby item with you, companies like BabyQuip allow you to rent all kinds of things for babies and babies such as cribs, cradles, strollers, baby swings and toys, says Dr. Long. That way, you can travel more easily, sleep better and know that your baby is safe.

2. Watch out for coats and purses

Older people in particular tend to keep pills and other medications in their purses or backpacks. Even a child-resistant bottle is no match for curious little ones. Any purse left on the floor is a tempting item for your youngest children who especially love to explore with their mouths. If they are taking adult medication, it can be very dangerous.

If you’re hosting a holiday party this year, have your friends and family put their purses and coats in a safe place out of reach of children, such as a bedroom with a locked door. Additionally, be sure to lock or secure your medicine cabinets with child-proof locks before the party begins.

A similar common danger, says dr. Long, is what she calls “pocket pills.” Great Aunt Sue might put her medicine in her coat pocket, planning to take it later, but then leave the coat where your little one can find it. “No pocket pills!” Dr. Long says. “Take the coats to a safe place, out of your child’s reach, and store them there, period.”

3. Beware of cards that play music

Those cards that play music when opened may look and sound cute, but they contain button batteries, says Dr. Long. These small, round batteries are also found in many common household items. (Think remote controls, thermometers, pendants, clocks, toys and ornaments). Thousands of children end up in the emergency room every year after swallowing buttons, which can cause serious injury and even death, she adds.

If a relative sends you a musical card this holiday season, don’t give it to your little one—and try not to buy it for others if they have young children, too. If your child gets one, remove the button cell battery and throw it away before letting them play with it. It’s also a good idea to check your favorite twinkling Christmas ornament as it probably contains a button battery. It is best to keep these items out of the reach of your little ones’ prying hands.

Holidays with young children are busy, fun and oh-so-magical… as long as you plan ahead and take some precautions.

– Darria Long, MD, ER physician and BabyCenter Medical Advisor

4. Keep children out of the kitchen – and protect the kitchen if you can

You will probably need to prepare a lot of food, especially if you are hosting a gathering. Instead of letting your baby play around your legs in the kitchen, keep her in her own safe space like a play yard, says Dr. Long. Then you can enjoy cooking turkey and baking gingerbread without the risk of burning or hurting your baby. It’s also a good idea to make sure big siblings and older relatives know not to put other toys or food in your baby’s safe space, says Dr. Long.

“Another thing to watch out for is keeping your pressure cooker or deep fryer on the counter with the cord hanging down,” says Dr. Long. Pulling on the cord can cause the entire device to topple off the counter. “They end up with the physical trauma of the appliance coming down on them, plus the hot temperature of the food being cooked.” Be sure to push small appliances all the way back onto the counter and do not plug them into an outlet under the counter.

Two final things when it comes to the kitchen: Always cook on the back burners of your stove so hot pots and pans are out of your child’s reach, says Dr. Darria. And always keep an eye on your oven if it’s low to the ground. Small children are much stronger than you think and can open doors.

5. Don’t buy these trendy gifts for big brothers and sisters

Some toys are always worth skipping for safety reasons, shares Dr. Long. Even if your teen begs for water beads, don’t bring them into your home. They may look harmless, but they are responsible for thousands of pediatric emergency department visits each year. according to the CPSC. Water beads look like tiny, colorful candies and are often sold in craft kits or as a sensory tool. If babies or young children swallow them, they can choke, suffer internal injuries or even die. When dried, the beads are almost undetectable, but grow up to 100 times their original size when exposed to water.

Magnetic balls are another popular gift for pre-teens and teenagers that pose a serious danger to young children. The CPSC recalled these toys a few years ago, but they are back on the market today. The toys consist of very small magnetic balls (about the size of earring studs) that all snap together. If a child swallows one or more of these magnets, it can cause damage to their interstitial tract and will need to be removed by surgery immediately.

6. Don’t forget about tree safety.

Although beautiful, your Christmas tree is a shiny new object that your child can’t wait to touch. It’s best to set up a play area or fence around the tree for the first few holiday seasons. That way, they’re not tempted to pull and tug on it, which could lead to them pulling the whole thing on themselves.

Ornaments can also pose a safety risk, so hang them up high and put the fragile glass heirlooms away until your little ones are older. If you’re used to decorating your Christmas tree with popcorn strings, maybe they should be off limits this year, as smaller children might get their hands on them, pull them and try to eat them (and that’s a choking risk). Even your lights can be dangerous in your baby’s hands. Before you hang them, make sure there are no broken bulbs or frayed wires. And try to plug them in an area your child can’t see so they’re not tempted to pull the plug out of the wall.

7. Don’t leave Fido alone with your baby.

If you are visiting a friend who has a dog, avoid leaving your child alone with him, suggests Dr. Long. She’s seen even the most loving family dog ​​bite a baby after being accidentally provoked (little hands can’t always help themselves!). Not to mention, dogs and cats can feel overwhelmed by all the extra stimulation during the holiday party.

If you’re hosting, keep pets in their room or crate to retreat to during the party. If you are staying at someone else’s house, politely ask your host if they can keep their dog or cat in a separate area. Then you won’t have to worry about your child around the animal – and Fido is also in a safe and comfortable place.

Holidays with young children are busy, fun and oh-so-magical…as long as you plan ahead and take some precautions, says Dr. Long. This way, everyone can be on the lookout for danger, and you can all enjoy the season.

When it comes to the alternative Christmas tree, I’m definitely a skeptic. As someone who was just a then bitter to learn that her mom had switched out a real Christmas tree for an artificial one a few years ago, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about another tree alternative.

However, making a wall-mounted Christmas tree is not only a great way to get creative during the holiday season, but it can also look incredibly design-forward.

I’m a big fan of real evergreens, but there’s something to be said for creating a new tradition. If you’re intrigued by a wall-mounted version of your own glitter tree, here are the steps to make one with garland—as well as a few other ideas that use lights, ornaments, and branches.

How to make a Christmas tree on the wall

There are many different options for making a wall-mounted Christmas tree, which makes this DIY so dynamic. This means you can have a different theme or color palette each year and accommodate different materials.

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Supplies you will need

• Fake evergreen wreath (or real branches from either evergreen or cedar)
• Adhesive hooks or tapes that are safe for painted walls
• String lights
• Ornaments of your choice

Step #1: Find and clean your wall

Find a wall with an area large enough to string your wreath and not obstructed by furniture. At least 3 meters by 3 feet is usually best (but more space gives you enough room to create as many trees as you like). If there is dirt or grease on the wall, take some time to wipe it so that the tape or hooks stick well.

Step #2: Create an outline

Use tape or ribbon to make your initial outline. This will make it easier to place the wreath and keep it in the shape of a Christmas tree instead of just covering it. Once this is done, you can place your sticky hooks if you use this method. Otherwise, go to the next step.

Step #3: Hang the wreath

Start arranging your wreath or branches. If you are using a faux evergreen wreath, work from the bottom up, pulling the length of the wreath over, then wrapping it on itself to create the next row.

If you are using real branches, arrange them by creating the longest line of branches at the bottom, then several other rows of branches in decreasing length until you are left with one small piece, which marks the top of your “tree”.

Use sturdy tape or small sticky hooks to keep everything in place.

Step #4: Make adjustments and strengthen them

Now is the time to make changes to your tree. Check that the cornice is even and fix any slanted surfaces. If you notice pieces falling apart, you can reinforce them by adding extra hooks or tape.

Step #5: Add Embellishments

You can leave your tree as is, or you can bring in a little holiday magic with lights, ornaments, wreaths, or natural elements like fruit or flowers. Hang just a few (so as not to overburden it) from the “branches” you made.

A string lamp can also help your tree pop off the wall. You can also add a star at the very top for a real tree feel. Once you’re done, you can now enjoy your alternative Christmas tree!

Alternative wall Christmas trees

Besides this simple Christmas tree with wreath, there are other possibilities to make a wall version in your home and decorate the walls with decor. Feel free to get creative and go around your tree in countless other ways that fit your holiday decor and style preferences.

Light Strand Christmas Tree

This idea will bring minimalist holiday decorating dreams to life. All you need is a string of lights and any decorations you want to add. Similar to a wreath tree, you’ll zigzag your lights into a tree shape, attaching them with clear pins or holding them in place with strong tape.

You can leave it as it is in its simplest form or add a few silver, gold or colorful ornaments to give it more of a Christmas tree look.

Ornament Frame Christmas Tree

This colorful idea makes it easy to move a wall-mounted Christmas tree from room to room (or make several for different spaces).

Find or make a chicken wire frame, then hang a variety of bright and cheery ornaments in the silhouette of a Christmas tree. You can make this tree as big or as small as you like, and it’s easy to store and take out year after year.

Branch wall Christmas tree

This is a wonderful choice if you like to devote yourself to nature around your home. Instead of lights or artificial garland, forage branches (especially moss-covered ones) and then stack them from longest to shortest to create a Christmas tree shape. Use embellishments to fill in the space between them or leave them ours for a minimalist look.

Our research

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2019. “Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Reported Rates of Respiratory and Gastrointestinal Infections in Young Children.” BMC Pediatrics Volume 19, Article Number: 339 (Accessed November 2022)

2009. AFP. “Infant Formula.” Am Fam Physician. 2009;79(7):565-570. (Accessed November 2022)

2022 FDA. US Food and Drug Administration. “Consumer Questions and Answers About Infant Formula.” (Accessed November 2022)

2022. “Carbohydrate Composition of Breast Milk and Its Impact on Infant Health.” Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2020 July; 23(4): 277–281. (Accessed November 2022)

2022. “The biology of lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein that may help defend against viruses and bacteria.” Front. Immunol., May 28, 2020. Sec. Viral immunology (Accessed November 2022)

2016. “Clinical benefits of milk fat globule membranes for infants and children.” J Pediatr. 2016 Jun;173 Suppl:S60-5.
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Getting ready to welcome friends and family into your home for the busy holiday season can be exciting and overwhelming. If you’re in charge of organizing the gathering and preparing the holiday meal, then the task is even more daunting if your home still seems out of order.

While the approaching holidays may not be the best time to embark on any major home upgrades, there are a few smaller projects you can tackle (or complete) to get your home ready for the holidays.

Here are eight home projects that should be completed before the holidays so guests can enjoy a beautiful home.

Dress the powder room

The approaching holidays are the perfect excuse to finish off the bathroom or guest toilet you started months ago. Adding beautiful wallpaper, updating light fixtures, installing inexpensive flooring, and stocking up on essentials is the perfect project to ensure that this space is not only beautiful for guests to admire, but also functional.

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Declutter

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or hosting relatives for a multi-day stay, the holidays are the perfect time to do some last-minute decluttering.

Go through your closet and drawers to throw away items you’ve acquired throughout the year and reduce visual stress by making your home look more minimal and ready your space for winter and holiday giving.

Upgrading cabinet hardware

Make a statement in your kitchen by upgrading your cabinet hardware. This simple home project dramatically enhances your kitchen design (in a good way), no matter what style of hardware you choose.

And since cabinet hardware isn’t an expensive project, this is a great budget-friendly task for improving your kitchen without a major remodel before the busy holiday season.

Add shelves to the guest bedroom

Before guests move in for a few days, make your bedroom feel like home by adding a new set of shelves. This simple, cost-effective project makes the space more functional by offering storage for guests and provides the perfect place to style your guest bedroom!

Touch the front door

Just as interiors need a little love before the holiday season, so does your exterior. One area to focus on is the front door, which sets the tone before guests step inside.

Replacing or repainting your front door is an easy home project to complete before the holiday season to add extra curb appeal and complete your home design.

Secure the stairs

Do you have a grand staircase in your home? We’ll assume there’s at least one squeaky step that needs to be replaced. Before guests head up the stairs and are surprised to encounter cracked old boards, consider securing your staircase with new boards.

And if your staircase has spindle railings instead of drywall, dress up the space for the holiday by wrapping the railing in a decorated wreath. It’s also a great time to shampoo your runner’s carpet or lay down a new fresh one.

Clean up the front yard

Just like your front door, the yard will be the first thing your guests see when they arrive at your home, so why not make a good impression starting from the outside?

Clean up the area by putting away any lawn toys or items that might be lying around in your shed before watering any winter plants you have along the way. And while you’re at it, it would be a great time to add a set of track lighting to light the way to your freshly painted front door.

Style the Entryway

When guests walk past your lawn, your entryway makes the first impression they make when they step into your home.

Set a cozy, homey scene with an updated entryway design that features all the essentials, from a console table to baskets for texture, an accent wall mirror, a running rug, and a few table pieces to show off your style.

Check your fridge: Multiple brands of organic carrots are being recalled after being linked epidemic in several countriesOpens a new window of Escherichia coli (E. coli) which has resulted in one death and 15 hospitalizations so far.

Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to developing foodborne illnesses, in part because the body suppresses the immune system to better protect the growing baby, she says Amesh Adalja, MDOpens a new window., a senior fellow at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.

While many strains While E. coli are relatively harmless, this outbreak is caused by a strain of E. coli that produces Shiga toxin, which binds to cells in your body and releases harmful toxins, leading to potentially serious illness, according to Cleveland ClinicOpens a new window.

Here are the products that may be contaminated with E. coli – if any of them are in your fridge, throw them away immediately.

Organic carrot recall

The The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is responsible for issuing food recalls, listed these carrot productsOpens a new window as potentially contaminated E. coli.

Organic whole carrots

• 365 (Bag sizes: 1 pound (lb), 2 lb, 5 lb)
• Bunny Luv (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb)
• Cal-Organic (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 6 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb)
• Compliments (2 lb)
• Full Circle (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb)
• Good and expensive (2 lb)
• GreenWise (1 lb, 25 lb)
• Marketside (2 lb)
• Nature’s Promise (1 lb, 5 lb)
• O-Organic (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb)
• President’s Choice (2 lb)
• The Simple Truth (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb)
• Trader Joe’s (1 lb)
• Wegmans (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb)
• Healthy Pantry (1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb)

The organic whole carrots do not have a best-before date printed on the bag, but they were all available for purchase in stores from August 14 to October 23, 2024. Although these products should no longer be available for purchase, they may still be in refrigerators or people’s freezers.

Organic baby (sliced ​​and peeled) carrots

• 365 (12 ounces (oz) 1 (lb), 2 lb) Best if used by: September 11, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Bunny Luv (1lb, 2lb, 3lb, 5lb) Best By: September 11, 2024 – November 22, 2024
• Cal-Organic (12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb, 2 pkg/2 lb) Best By: September 11, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Compliments (1 lb) Best if used: September 14, 2024 – October 24, 2024
• Full Circle (1 lb) Best if used: September 14, 2024 – October 24, 2024
• Good & Gather (12 oz, 1 lb) Best if used by: September 14, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• GreenWise (1 lb) Best By: September 11, 2024 – October 26, 2024
• Marketside (12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb) Best By: September 11, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Nature’s Promise (1 lb) Best By: September 13, 2024 – October 25, 2024
• O-Organics (12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb) Best By: September 11, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• President’s Choice (1 lb, 2 lb) Best If Used: September 11, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• The Simple Truth (1 lb, 2 lb) Best By: September 14, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Sprouts (1 lb, 2 lb) Best if used: September 13, 2024 – November 4, 2024
• Trader Joe’s (1 lb) Best By: September 13, 2024 – November 4, 2024
• Wegmans (12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb) Best By: September 14, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Wholesome Pantry (1 lb, 2 lb) Best if used: September 16, 2024 – November 7, 2024

All organic baby carrots have a best before date between September 11, 2024 and November 12, 2024. They should no longer be available for purchase in stores. The company, Grimmway Farms, is voluntarily recalling products after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that they may have been linked to E. coli outbreak, according to the FDAOpens a new window.

If you have recently purchased any of these products, do not eat or use them – throw them away and disinfect any surfaces or surfaces they have touched.

Symptoms of E. coli

While the majority E. coli bacteria are harmless, some strains – including Shiga – produce toxins The E. coli strain linked to the latest outbreak of foodborne illnessOpens a new window in organic carrots — can cause symptoms such asOpens a new window:

• Diarrhea, which can vary from mild and watery to severe and bloody
• Abdominal cramps, which can be severe
• Vomiting
• Low temperature (rare)

“In people who are infected with this strain of E. coli, it usually causes bloody diarrhea, usually after about two or three days of incubation,” he says. Dean Winslow, MDOpens a new window., professor of medicine and pediatrics at Stanford Health Care. “Very rarely do people with this infection get a fever.”

This is in contrast to other foodborne diseases such as Campylobacter infectionOpens a new windowwhich can include bloody diarrhea and fever, he says.

How could E. coli affect me and my baby?

When you’re pregnant, your body suppresses your immune system – so you’re already at a higher risk of getting sick from foodborne illness, says Dr. Adalja.

That said, this a special strain of E. coliOpens a new window it’s usually confined to the intestines and therefore doesn’t cross into the bloodstream or placenta to infect the fetus, says Dr. Winslow. Babies born to mothers who had Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli are also not known to have any health complications at birth, he says.

“However, if the mother is critically ill, sometimes it will (cause) premature birth,” he says. In addition, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli can lead to a potentially fatal medical condition called hemolytic uremia syndromeOpens a new window (HUS), according to CDCOpens a new windowwhich can then lead to kidney failure in the mother which can endanger the health of the pregnancy.

“If the mother is sick, it could potentially have a negative effect on the baby,” he says.

Some symptoms of HUS include: urinating less often or not at all; loss of pink color in the cheeks and inside of the lower eyelids, unexplained bruising or small red spots on the skin; blood in the urine, irritability and lethargy.

How to prevent infection

Since E. coli bacteria can live in the intestines of animals, you’re most likely to get an E. coli infection if you eat undercooked meat, he says Janet BufferOpens a new windowsenior institute manager of the Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition at George Washington University in Washington, DC

But runoff from cattle farms, for example, can also contaminate fields where produce is grown, he says Mayo ClinicOpens a new windowso people can also develop an infection after eating foods like vegetables. If you’re handling raw produce, wash it well first, which can help get rid of any bacteria in the food.

Cooking your vegetables at 135 degrees Fahrenheit (F) can also help kill bacteria, Buffer says.

You should also check that the meat has reached a safe minimum temperatureOpens a new window (at least 160 degrees F for ground meats, such as beef; 165 degrees F for chicken and turkey; and 145 degrees F for beef, pork, veal, and lamb steaks.

People with weakened immune systems may also want to skip pre-washed produce, Buffer says, in part because they’re at a slightly higher risk of harboring harmful bacteria.

“When you start processing food, you increase the possibility of contamination,” she says. “And when you cut produce—like lettuce or carrots—bacteria are attracted to that area (as opposed to) the rougher skin on the outside.”

What’s more, prepackaged products, such as salads, often contain wetter environments, which are more hospitable to bacteria, she says. “You’re allowing time for the bacteria to grow to an unsafe level,” she says.

While “there are (safeguards) in processing plants,” she continues, “nothing is ever 100% guaranteed.”

What to do if these products are in your home

If you recently purchased organic carrots that were part of a food recall, either throw them away or return them to the store for a refund. (You might be better off just tossing them, though, since stores aren’t likely to want them back, says Dr. Winslow.)

Then, use soap and water to wipe down your vegetable drawer or the area of ​​the fridge where they were stored, as well as any surfaces that may have touched the food, Buffer says. “If there were other foods that could have been exposed to the carrot, I would have played it safe and thrown it away,” she says.

If you have already eaten a carrot or have symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency room for treatment. There is no preventative medicine you can take for this type E. coli infection, says dr. Winslow – and actually, taking antibiotics can cause more harm, because it can increase the risk of HUS – but the health care team can make sure you stay hydrated and monitor your symptoms.

Like many, I love the smell and look of a real Christmas tree. What I don’t like is the inevitable overthinking that goes along with one.

Am I giving him enough water? Should I add something to the water? Can I do more to extend indoor life? Typically, the moment a few needles fall is when I begin to question my care methods. That’s right now. I’m a “leave it until after the New Year” kind of girl, so this needs to be resolved, and quickly.

Conclusion? The Christmas tree is the largest house plant I will own all year, and a short-term investment considering the price, so I want to try to make it last as long as possible.

If you turn to the internet as often as I do in moments of curiosity, you’ll discover all sorts of tricks and tips on what to add to your water to help your tree thrive. I’ve seen every suggestion, from adding plain sugar to crushed aspirin.

This year is different though. I decided to skip all that self-research and go straight to a good Christmas tree expert to get the definitive answer on what works and what doesn’t when it comes to what you should add to your tree’s water.

And what I found out surprised me.

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What does it really do?

“We do not recommend adding additional products to the water, such as bleach, vinegar, sugar, aspirin, or other products advertised to keep your tree fresh,” says Marsha Gray, executive director of the Real Christmas Tree Board.

In fact, she says these additives can actually be counterproductive because they prevent your tree from retaining water and/or encourage bacterial growth in your tree. Her advice?

“Follow Mother Nature’s lead and simply provide plain water!”

As the old saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Instead, Gray recommends focusing on maintenance and water maintenance.

To ensure your tree gets the water it needs, Gray suggests cutting a fresh half-inch off the trunk either while you’re at the tree farm or when you get home before placing it in the water stand. This will also help remove any resin clogging the boot. A new cut gets things moving and allows your wood to perk up.

“Many people underestimate how much water a real Christmas tree actually drinks,” she adds. “A Christmas tree can drink about a quart of water per inch of trunk diameter. Check the stand water level daily, don’t let the water level drop below the base of the trunk, and keep your tree away from heat sources. This will help ensure your tree stays fresh longer.”

Here it is. While it might be tempting to see what might tip the scales, your tree will be happiest and freshest with plain old tap water.