A newborn brings night feeds, and many families hope their helper can share them. With clear expectations and enough rest for everyone, night-time care can work well; without them, it quickly leads to exhaustion.
What MOM's guidance covers
MOM makes employers responsible for their helper's health and well-being. Its rules require a weekly rest day, with at least one rest day a month that cannot be compensated away. MOM's employer guide does not set a fixed number of nightly hours, but a helper who is up at night still needs adequate rest to work safely, especially with a baby. Many employment contracts used by agencies include a daily rest period, so check what yours says.
Agree the plan before the baby arrives
- Which nights: every night, weeknights only, or alternating with a parent.
- Which tasks: bottle feeds, settling, nappy changes, or only bringing the baby to the mother for breastfeeding.
- When she sleeps: a protected rest block the next day, such as a nap while the baby sleeps or a later start.
- Housework: lighter chores after a night shift, so she is not doing a full day's work on little sleep.
Write the plan down, review it after two weeks, and adjust as the baby's sleep changes.
Safety comes first
- A tired carer is more likely to make mistakes with bottles, bathing or carrying.
- Make sure she knows safe sleep practice for babies, such as placing them on their back in their own cot.
- Give her a clear way to wake you if the baby seems unwell.
Where the baby sleeps
If the baby sleeps in her room for night duty, her accommodation must still meet MOM's requirements, including privacy, ventilation and a proper bed. She must not share a room with a male adult or teenager.
Confinement nannies and other options
For the first weeks, some families engage a confinement nanny in addition to the helper. Others take turns between parents and helper, or bring in a grandparent for some nights. Any of these can ease the first months.
Choosing a helper for newborn care
- Look for recent infant care experience and ask how she handled night feeds before.
- Ask how she prepares and sterilises bottles, and how she settles a crying baby.
- Be honest in the interview about the night duties you expect.
Browse helpers with infant care experience, and read our guide to the levy concession after a baby is born.
Official source: MOM's rest days, health and well-being page.
Common questions
Can I pay extra instead of giving her rest after night feeds?
Rest protects her health and the baby's safety. Plan real rest time during the day rather than replacing it with money.
Should night duty be in the employment contract?
It helps. Write down the expected night tasks and her rest arrangements, so both of you have the same understanding.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Procedures change, so confirm the current steps on mom.gov.sg or with your licensed employment agency.
