Newborn Sleep Schedule: How Much Do They Sleep?

Reviewed by: Tracie Kesatie, Certified Pediatric Sleep Coach

 

In the early days of parenthood, few things feel more mysterious than a baby’s sleep. One moment they’re dozing peacefully, the next they’re wide awake, and just when you think you’ve spotted a rhythm, it shifts again. 

New parents often find themselves asking the same questions: How much do newborns sleep in a day, and is what I’m seeing normal for my baby? 

To help make sense of it all, this guide explores how much newborns actually sleep, what influences their sleep rhythms, and gentle ways parents can shape their sleep routines. 

Why Understanding Newborn Sleep Matters

While parents watch the gentle rise and fall of a baby’s chest overnight, much more is happening beneath the surface. For newborns, sleep is the quiet engine behind rapid physical and cognitive development.

Sleep powers1:

  • Rapid physical growth
  • Neural connections that support learning and memory
  • Development of the immune system, building resilience against illness

Still, many parents worry: Is my baby sleeping too much, or not enough? These doubts are common, especially when every cry or unusually long nap feels like it might signal a problem. Parents who find themselves wondering when babies sleep through the night often discover that restful sleep comes gradually as babies grow, feed more efficiently, and settle into natural rhythms.

Ultimately, knowledge brings peace of mind: Learning what’s typical helps families see sleep as a process that unfolds gradually, not something to perfect overnight. A structured sleep schedule allows parents and the little one to align their rest periods, making life more manageable.

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How Much Do Newborns Actually Sleep?

By understanding different sleep stages, parents can better manage the child’s needs and ensure the infant is comfortable throughout the night. On average, newborns sleep 14–17 hours per day, but rarely in long stretches.2 A newborn sleep schedule is shaped by short intervals. Instead, their sleep comes in stretches of 2–4 hours at a time—short bursts that reflect the rhythm of their still-developing bodies. 

Within these cycles, parents often notice the difference between daytime naps and nighttime sleep: Daytime rest tends to be lighter and more frequent, while nighttime sleep sessions gradually lengthen as babies grow. As infants mature, their sleep cycles change, requiring constant adaptations to their sleep schedule.

Newborn Sleep by Age Range

A newborn’s sleep schedule changes quickly—each week brings its own rhythm. While no two babies are exactly alike, age-based patterns can help parents know what’s typical and what to expect: 

  • Birth to 1 month – Sleep happens in short bursts throughout the day and night, usually two to three hours at a time - sometimes we need to limit the duration of naps so feedings are not skiped. Feeding needs drive this schedule, meaning babies wake often, day and night. Establishing a bedtime routine is a wonderful tool, but there are other tips as well..
  • 1 to 2 months – Nighttime stretches may start to lengthen slightly, though most babies still wake every few hours to feed. Day-versus-night confusion remains common, with parents gently guiding baby through the difference. 
  • 2 to 3 months – At 2 months of age sleep is still very variable.  Things become a bit more predictable around 3 months of age.  Naps sometimes become shorter (in comparison to the first few weeks of life), but in other cases they become longer as the number of naps are consolidating. 

While these age ranges offer a helpful roadmap, many variables—from feeding to environment—shape how each baby sleeps, too. 

Factors That Influence Newborn Sleep Feeding

Every newborn is unique—one baby may drift easily into longer naps, while another wakes often through the night. What shapes these differences usually comes down to a handful of factors: 

Feeding

Since breast milk tends to digest more quickly in a newborn's tummy, breastfed babies usually sleep more frequently.3 Formula-fed babies may sleep for slightly longer stretches between feedings, though every baby’s needs are different. 

Whether a baby is breastfed or formula-fed, well-fed babies often rest more comfortably. The choice of formula can impact how long and comfortably an infant sleeps. Some parents find that gentle options, such as Bubs infant goat milk formula and grass-fed infant formula, support easier digestion and reduce fussiness, helping create a calmer sleep routine.

Growth Spurts

During growth spurts, babies may wake often to feed. Developmental leaps can also disrupt sleep patterns before they settle again, but don’t be discouraged: These changes are normal and temporary. As these phases pass, rest often returns to a steadier rhythm, especially when paired with a healthy sleep environment. Parents are recommended to stay observant of their infant's cues and make required adjustments for better sleep health.

Environment

For many parents, preparing the nursery is one of the most joyful steps in welcoming a baby—choosing soft colors, arranging tiny clothes, and imagining the peaceful moments to come. Beyond aesthetics, the nursery setting also plays a decisive role in how babies rest. 

Here’s how to create a calm, safe sleep environment that supports your baby’s sleep:

  • Keep the room quiet and dimly lit (blackout curtains are ideal for daytime naps for some babies, but necessary for all)
  • Aim for a comfortable temperature, ideally between 68–72°F (20–22°C)
  • Use white noise machines to block sudden disturbances 

When that space feels right, it’s easier to recognize what a healthy newborn sleep schedule actually looks like. However, the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends room sharing (where the baby sleeps in their own safe sleep space in a bedroom with the parents) for at least the first 6 months of life.

What Healthy Newborn Sleep Looks Like

For parents accustomed to long stretches of sleep, newborn sleep can feel disorienting. But frequent waking is normal, not a “problem” to solve. Recognizing the signs of fatigue and intervening with a soothing routine can effectively support the infant’s sleep schedule. In fact, irregular sleep cycles are expected during the first 8–12 weeks post birth. 

With that perspective, it’s easier to approach the most common newborn sleep struggles with patience and confidence. 

Common Newborn Sleep Challenges

Even when newborn sleep develops normally, most families encounter challenges along the way. Recognizing these challenges for what they are can make it easier to manage them calmly and confidently. 

Day/Night Confusion

In the weeks after birth, babies don’t understand the difference between daytime and nighttime because their circadian rhythm is still developing.4 They may nap for long stretches in daylight and wake frequently after dark, leaving parents longing for more predictable cycles. 

The good news? You can guide your newborn toward clearer patterns by: 

  • Creating consistent sleep environments
  • Using soothing pre-sleep cues, like a warm bath or reading a book
  • Recognizing signs of tiredness before babies become overtired
  • Keeping nighttime diaper changes and feedings boring and business like 

Alongside day/night confusion, many newborns also take short naps (or catnaps) throughout the day. While brief naps may feel disruptive, they’re a regular part of adjusting to life outside the womb. 

Frequent Waking at Night

Waking frequently at night is one of the most common newborn sleep patterns. Though exhausting for parents, it’s driven by biology, not bad habits. Babies have tiny stomachs, which means they need to feed frequently—often every 2–3 hours.3 Guiding the baby sleep routine with consistency can gradually reduce night awakenings. Waking frequently can also be due to underlying medical challenges like reflux, food sensitivies, excessive gas, or going to bed overtired. 

Some parents turn to co-sleeping with baby as a way to make these nighttime feedings more manageable and comforting. While it can help soothe both parent and child, it’s essential to follow infant sleep safety and other safe sleep practices—keeping your baby close but on a separate, firm surface—to minimize risks and encourage healthy sleep habits.

While it can appear that progress disappears with every cry, these wakings are normal and a necessary part of healthy development. As babies grow, frequent waking tends to ease, especially as parents continue to implement healthy sleep habits. Healthcare professionals recommend staying consistent with soothing techniques to improve the baby sleep experience.

How Parents Can Support Healthy Sleep Habits

Between the daytime naps and the late-night feeds, consistency becomes an anchor for both baby and parent. Gentle routines and clear cues can help provide a foundation that supports better rest over time, aiding infant development. 

Create Gentle Routines

Even without strict schedules, newborns thrive on predictability. A series of small, repeated steps can signal when it's time to wind down. Think of it as a soft rhythm rather than a timetable: 

  • A quiet feed and a gentle burp to settle their tummy 
  • Swaddling or a sleep sack to create a sense of security
  • A few minutes of rocking, humming, or stillness before laying them down

And just as routines set the stage, natural cues can help babies distinguish between day and night.

Set Day/Night Cues

Although newborns can’t yet link daylight with activity, or darkness with rest, simple cues can help guide them. Offering natural light and active play during the day encourages alertness, while keeping nighttime interaction calm and quiet signals that it’s time to sleep.

Safe Sleep Practices

Safety is the foundation of healthy rest. To that end, minor adjustments to a baby’s sleep space can go a long way in protecting them while they dream5:

  • Always place babies on their backs to sleep 
  • Use a firm crib or bassinet with a snug, fitted sheet 
  • Keep the sleep space free of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals 
  • Avoid co-sleeping whenever possible 

If you’re still unsure whether your baby’s sleep patterns fall within normal ranges, consult your pediatrician or Certified Pediatric Sleep Coach. They can provide tailored guidance and peace of mind. 

When to Talk to a Pediatrician

Variations in sleep patterns are normal for most newborns. However, there are times when seeking professional help can alleviate worry and ensure safety. Parents may want to check in with their pediatrician if they notice: 

  • Sleep is far longer or shorter than the typical age ranges
  • Baby seems unusually lethargic or difficult to rouse
  • Breathing appears labored, noisy, or irregular 

Even a quick touch base can reassure parents that what they’re experiencing is normal for their newborn—or help them make small adjustments that support healthier rest. 

Supporting Parents & Caregivers

A few hours of consistent rest are important for both the infant and parents during these early months. Establishing a rhythm supports child development and overall family health. Sleepless nights are part of the journey of early parenthood, and no baby follows a “perfect” sleep script. What matters most is that you know they’re not alone. Whenever possible, lean on your support network:

  • Share nighttime duties with another parent or caregiver
  • Accept help from family or friends (with meal prep, chores, grocery shopping, etc.)
  • Talk openly about challenges with family, friends, and other parents 

Trusting the Process of Adjusting to Newborn Sleep

The newborn sleep schedule is unpredictable—but it’s also fleeting. Remember that rest will gradually steady, and your family will develop new rhythms and routines.

Because feeding choices can play a role in sleep-supportive routines, it’s important to choose gentle, nourishing options for your little one, like Bubs’ infant goat milk formula and grass-fed infant formula. Our clean baby formulas are crafted to support comfort and easier digestion, with no artificial colors or sweeteners, no GMOs, no corn syrup solids, and no chemicals or pesticides. Just pure, whole nutrition.

For clean, safe, and nourishing formula options you can trust, choose Bubs.

 

Tracie Kesatie, Certified Pediatric Sleep Coach

Tracie Kesatie is an experienced Certified Gentle Sleep Coach and the founder of Rest Well Baby. She combines nearly two decades of personal parenting experience—as a mother of four well-rested children—with her professional background to help families worldwide solve pediatric sleep challenges.

Her expertise is built on a strong academic foundation, including a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Counseling. Since becoming a Certified Gentle Sleep Coach in 2014, Tracie has established herself as a trusted authority for parents with children aged 0–10, specializing in supportive, non-judgmental, and custom-tailored sleep support.

Tracie's insights have been featured across various media platforms, including appearances on the Home & Family TV show and as an expert guest on popular podcasts like Is It Bedtime Yet? and Golden Hour. As a member of the International Association of Child Sleep Consultants, she is dedicated to empowering parents and ensuring the entire family achieves restful sleep.

 

Sources: 

  1. National Library of Medicine. Infant sleep and its relation with cognition and growth: a narrative review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5440010/
  2. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Healthy Sleep Habits. https://www.chop.edu/primary-care/healthy-sleep-habits
  3. CDC. How Much and How Often to Breastfeed. https://www.cdc.gov/infant-toddler-nutrition/breastfeeding/how-much-and-how-often.html
  4. National Library of Medicine. Developing circadian rhythmicity in infants. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12897290/
  5. American Academy of Pediatrics. Safe Sleep and Your Baby: How Parents Can Reduce the Risk of SIDS and Suffocation. https://publications.aap.org/patiented/article/doi/10.1542/p