Newborn Scrunch: What Is It?
Updated Jan 21, 2026
The newborn scrunch? It’s nothing to worry about.
Ever wonder why babies fold or curl their bodies when being picked up, or flex their little facial muscles for seemingly no reason? Your concern is natural, but so is the newborn scrunch. Here we’ll go into what causes it.
What is the Newborn Scrunch?
Newborns often scrunch or furrow their forehead while breastfeeding, sleeping, or even when they are awake and alert. Officially, it’s called the “breastfeeding scrunch” or “sleep scrunch” (which is adorable).
They also can scrunch up their bodies or tense their legs when being picked up out of their car seat, folding up into a little L-shape.
Why Do Babies Do the Newborn Scrunch?
So, why do newborns tend to do this adorable scrunching? If you notice your little one curl up, one of the following factors might be responsible:
- Reflex: The scrunching movement may be a part of the rooting reflex, which is an instinctive movement that newborns make to help locate the nipple and breast when they are hungry.
- Comfort: The scrunching movement may provide a sense of comfort or security for the newborn. They're new to this whole outside-the-womb thing!
- Development: The scrunching movement may also be a part of the newborn's overall motor development, as they begin to control and coordinate their movements.
So, next time you see your newborn scrunching up their face or body when taken out of a car seat, remember: it’s natural. The scrunching movement is simply a normal part of a newborn's development — nothing to be concerned about.
But if you are feeling concerned about your baby's movements or behavior, it's always best to consult with a pediatrician for personalized advice.
When Does the Newborn Scrunch Stop?
The newborn scrunch is a sweet but short-lived stage. Most babies gradually grow out of this curled-up posture within the first month or two as their muscles strengthen and they gain more control over their movements. By around 2 months, you’ll likely notice your little one stretching more freely, and by 4 months, tummy time often leads to rolling over. Every baby is different, though, so there’s no exact “end date.” If you still notice the scrunch beyond 4–6 months, mention it to your doctor so they can check posture and provide reassurance.
What to Do If Your Newborn Curls or Rolls While Sleeping
It’s common for newborns to curl to their side or even roll slightly in their sleep, and in most cases, it’s perfectly safe. Still, a few simple precautions can help ensure your baby’s sleep environment remains secure.
- Start on the back: Always place your baby down on their back on a firm, flat mattress with only a fitted sheet—no toys, pillows, or blankets in the crib.
- Swaddle safely: Designated swaddling blankets are newborn must-haves—keep swaddles snug but leave room for the legs and hips to move freely. Be sure to stop swaddling once your little one shows early signs of rolling.
- Skip positioners: Avoid wedges or devices marketed to keep babies in place. Instead, let your baby’s arms stay free so they can self-adjust or push up if needed.
Bask in the Newborn Stage with Bubs
As a new mom, you may have found yourself searching “how long is the newborn stage?” and soaking up every second. During this exciting phase of your little one’s life, the newborn scrunch is one of those fleeting quirks that makes the early days so memorable. This instinctive curl is driven by a baby’s natural reflexes and slowly fades as their muscles strengthen and movement becomes more purposeful. While it can raise questions for new parents, it’s usually just a sign of healthy development.
At Bubs, we know every baby grows at their own pace. With a safe sleep environment, tummy time, and regular check-ins with your pediatrician, you can feel confident your little one is right on track. And when it’s time to nourish them, we’re here with clean-label baby formulas designed to support every stage.
