When Do Babies Start Sleeping Through the Night?
Discover when babies typically sleep through the night and expert tips to encourage better sleep habits for infants and new parents.
Updated: 25 Sep 2024
10 min read
When Do Babies Start Sleeping Through the Night?
Discover when babies typically sleep through the night and expert tips to encourage better sleep habits for infants and new parents.
Updated: 25 Sep 2024
10 min read
Let's face it - sleep becomes a hot commodity when you have a new baby. As a new parent, you've probably found yourself staring at the ceiling in the wee hours, wondering when you'll finally get a full night's rest again. The burning question on every new parent's mind is: "When do babies start sleeping through the night?"
The short answer? It varies. But don't worry, we're going to dive deep into this topic and give you all the information you need to understand your baby's sleep journey.
The Newborn Sleep Rollercoaster
First things first: newborns aren't designed to sleep through the night. In fact, they shouldn't. Dr. Jodi Mindell, a pediatric sleep expert, explains that "for the first few months, middle-of-the-night feedings are both normal and necessary" [1]. Your baby's tiny tummy needs frequent refills, and those nighttime wake-ups are crucial for their growth and development.
But don't lose hope! As your baby grows, so does their ability to sleep for longer stretches. Let's break down what you can expect:
0-2 Months: The Frequent Flyer Stage
- Newborns sleep 16-17 hours a day, but only in 2-3 hour chunks [2]
- There's no day-night rhythm yet - your baby's internal clock is still developing
- Frequent feedings are normal and necessary
- Wake windows typically range from 30 to 70 minutes [1]
2-4 Months: The Light at the End of the Tunnel
- Baby's sleep patterns start to mature
- Longest sleep stretches may reach 5-7 hours [1]
- Some babies might start to have a more predictable bedtime, normalizing between 7PM and 8PM
4-6 Months: The Golden Age of Sleep
- Many babies can sleep for longer stretches, sometimes up to 8 hours at 4 months [3]
- Nighttime feedings may decrease
- Circadian rhythms are developing, helping baby distinguish between day and night
- Naps usually start to consolidate beginning around 5 months
- Increased focus on independent sleep and sleep training may start
6-12 Months: The Sleep Marathon Begins
- Some babies may sleep through the night (6-8 hours) without waking to feed [1]
- Naps become more regular
- Bedtime routines become more important
The difficult - but true - point to keep in mind is that the above points are generalizations. While the rough timelines around when babies start to sleep through the night are fairly well-known to us now, some babies may hit these milestones earlier or later.
Want a sleep plan made just for you?
Riley takes the guesswork out of sleep, from your baby’s first days through sleep regressions, milestones, and beyond. As your child grows, their sleep schedule will, too - and Riley will adapt to your growing baby to provide the best sleep plans and guidance for every stage.
Why Isn't My Baby Sleeping Through the Night?
Even when you've done everything "right," your baby might still wake up frequently during the night. This can be frustrating, but it's often normal and temporary. Let's look at some common reasons by age group:
Newborns (0-2 months)
1. Frequent Feeding Needs: Newborns have tiny stomachs and need to eat every 2-3 hours, day and night. This is often the most difficult season of sleep for new parents, but trust me - it does pass. [2] Beginning a consistent routine can be very helpful during this period.
2. Lack of Circadian Rhythm: Newborns haven't developed their internal clock yet, so they don't distinguish between day and night [2].
3. Startle Reflex: The Moro reflex can cause sudden jerking movements that wake your baby. [4] The good news? Swaddling can help suppress the Moro reflex and help your new baby sleep for longer stretches!
4. Overtiredness: Counterintuitively, an overtired newborn may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. [4] The best way to prevent overtiredness is to pay close attention to your little one's wake windows.
5. Environmental Adjustments: Your baby is still getting used to life outside the womb - it's a big, big transition for their little body. This adjustment can, occasionally, cause unexpected wakefulness. [1]
Infants (3 months - 1 year)
1. Growth Spurts: By 3 months, your tiny newborn has started growing into a squishy baby! Growth spurts can increase hunger and disrupt sleep, especially around 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months. [3]
2. Teething: This classic sleep disruptor often starts around 4-6 months and can cause discomfort that disrupts sleep. [3]
3. Developmental Milestones: Learning new skills like rolling over (around 4 months), sitting up (around 6 months), or crawling (around 9 months) can temporarily affect sleep for two reasons: greater propensity for overtiredness, and because you may find your baby is more interested in practicing their new skills instead of sleeping! [3]
4. Sleep Regressions: Ah, the dreaded sleep regressions. The first, and often biggest, regression typically occurs around 4 months, with follow-up regressions around 8-10 months, and at 12 months, coinciding with developmental leaps. [3]
5. Changes in Sleep Needs: As babies grow, their sleep patterns evolve, which can lead to temporary disruptions. [3]
6. Separation Anxiety: This often peaks around 6-8 months and can make nighttime separations more difficult as your baby starts to learn to miss you at night. [4]
7. Establishing Sleep Associations: Babies may struggle to fall back asleep without certain conditions (like being rocked or fed to sleep). [1]
8. Nap Transitions: Dropping a nap can temporarily disrupt nighttime sleep. [3]
9. Increased Awareness: As babies become more aware of their surroundings, they may be more easily stimulated or distracted at bedtime. [4]
10. Introduction of Solid Foods: This can affect digestion and potentially sleep patterns. [2]
Now is as good time as any for a gentle reminder: if you're concerned about your baby's sleep patterns, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician.
Helping Your Baby Sleep Through the Night
Now that we've covered the "when," let's talk about the "how." Here are some tips to encourage better sleep:
1. Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A warm bath, a gentle massage, a quiet story - find what works for your family and stick to it. This consistent, calming routine signals to your baby that it's time to wind down. [4] Even at one month, a consistent routine can help cue sleep.
2. Keep Nighttime Interactions Low-Key
Use a soft voice, keep the lights dim, and avoid stimulating play during nighttime wake-ups. [4] This helps reinforce the difference between day and night, and that nighttime is for sleeping. Keeping things as boring as possible can also help with day/night confusion.
3. Focus on Independent Sleep
Around 4-6 months, you might want to explore teaching your baby to fall asleep independently. This means breaking sleep associations like feeding and rocking to sleep. [1] It's usually a good idea to consult with your pediatrician and get the all-clear to teach independent sleep before you start.
4. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Keep the room dark, cool, and quiet. Consider using white noise to drown out household sounds. [3] Aim for a room temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C). [5]
5. Watch for Sleep Cues
Yawning, rubbing eyes, fussiness, red eyebrows - it's a good idea to learn your baby's signs of tiredness and act on them. [4] For a one-month-old, these signs might include:
- Staring off into space
- Reduced (or nonexistent) eye contact
- Redness around their eyebrows
- Losing interest in toys or activities
6. Use a Swaddle or Sleep Sack
Instead of loose blankets (which are unsafe for infant sleep), use a swaddle or sleep sack to keep your baby warm. This is safer for babies than regular bedding, and can help signal that it's time for sleep. Remember, always stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of being able to roll over.
7. Incorporate White Noise
White noise can be soothing for babies (and adults!), as it mimics the whooshing sounds of the womb. [7] Keep the volume low - around 50 decibels, or roughly the volume of a soft shower [8]
8. Maximize Daytime Stimulation
Effective playtime can do wonders for helping your baby tire themselves out! My suggestion: use the "Five F's" during wake times:
- Feeding: Offer full feedings every 2-3.5 hours during the day [1]
- Fresh Air: A little natural light can help regulate your baby's sleep cycle [1]
- Floor Time: Gentle tummy time is great for your baby - it builds neck strength and may help tire your baby out [1]
- Free Play: Let your baby explore their immediate surroundings and toys with supervision
- Face-to-Face Interaction: Talk with your little one and put your face close to theirs - doing so provides great mental stimulation [1]
Remember, helping your baby sleep through the night is a process, not an event. It can take time, patience, and sometimes a few tears - but it is possible. And remember - Riley is here to help!!
FAQs About Baby Sleep
Q: Is it normal for my 6-month-old to still wake up at night?
A: Yes, it's can be completely normal. While some babies might sleep through the night at this age, many still wake up for feedings or comfort. 6 months is a great time to begin working on independent sleep. [1]
Q: Should I wake my baby for nighttime feedings?
A: If your baby is gaining weight well, most pediatricians agree that you don't need to wake a sleeping baby for feedings after they've regained their birth weight (usually 2-4 weeks after birth). [2]
Q: My baby was sleeping through the night but now they're waking up again. What happened?
A: Honestly? The usual culprit in this case (as far as I've seen) is usually a sleep regression. If your baby is around 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, or 18 months, it's likely a sleep regression at play. Sleep regressions are often linked to developmental leaps and, are (almost always) temporary. [3]
Q: Can I co-sleep with my baby to help them sleep better?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing but not bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months, ideally the first year, to reduce the risk of SIDS. Unfortunately, this is an area where. we have good data to suggest that bed-sharing is dangerous for babies under 12 months. [5]
Q: How can I tell if my baby is getting enough sleep?
A: A well-rested baby is generally happy and alert when awake and tends to keep to their wake windows.
Q: Should I swaddle my newborn for sleep?
A: Swaddling is great, can help newborns feel secure and suppress the Moro reflex. Make sure to stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of rolling over. [4]
Q: Can my newborn sleep with a pacifier?
A: Yes! Pacifiers at bedtime are considered safe and may reduce SIDS risk (we have pretty good evidence to support this) [4]
Q: When can I introduce a lovey or comfort object?
A: Wait until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing any soft objects to the sleep space [5]
Conclusion
Honestly, the phrase "sleeping through the night" is a bit of a misnomer. Even adults wake briefly several times a night - we just don't remember it. For babies, "sleeping through the night" usually means a 6-8 hour stretch of sleep. [1]
As you navigate this journey, be kind to yourself. You're doing an amazing job, even when it doesn't feel like it. Every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Trust your instincts, be consistent, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Before you know it, those sleepless nights will be a distant memory. In the meantime, grab that coffee, put on your favorite sweatpants, and remember - you've got this!
5 sources cited
Share this article:
Let's face it - sleep becomes a hot commodity when you have a new baby. As a new parent, you've probably found yourself staring at the ceiling in the wee hours, wondering when you'll finally get a full night's rest again. The burning question on every new parent's mind is: "When do babies start sleeping through the night?"
The short answer? It varies. But don't worry, we're going to dive deep into this topic and give you all the information you need to understand your baby's sleep journey.
The Newborn Sleep Rollercoaster
First things first: newborns aren't designed to sleep through the night. In fact, they shouldn't. Dr. Jodi Mindell, a pediatric sleep expert, explains that "for the first few months, middle-of-the-night feedings are both normal and necessary" [1]. Your baby's tiny tummy needs frequent refills, and those nighttime wake-ups are crucial for their growth and development.
But don't lose hope! As your baby grows, so does their ability to sleep for longer stretches. Let's break down what you can expect:
0-2 Months: The Frequent Flyer Stage
- Newborns sleep 16-17 hours a day, but only in 2-3 hour chunks [2]
- There's no day-night rhythm yet - your baby's internal clock is still developing
- Frequent feedings are normal and necessary
- Wake windows typically range from 30 to 70 minutes [1]
2-4 Months: The Light at the End of the Tunnel
- Baby's sleep patterns start to mature
- Longest sleep stretches may reach 5-7 hours [1]
- Some babies might start to have a more predictable bedtime, normalizing between 7PM and 8PM
4-6 Months: The Golden Age of Sleep
- Many babies can sleep for longer stretches, sometimes up to 8 hours at 4 months [3]
- Nighttime feedings may decrease
- Circadian rhythms are developing, helping baby distinguish between day and night
- Naps usually start to consolidate beginning around 5 months
- Increased focus on independent sleep and sleep training may start
6-12 Months: The Sleep Marathon Begins
- Some babies may sleep through the night (6-8 hours) without waking to feed [1]
- Naps become more regular
- Bedtime routines become more important
The difficult - but true - point to keep in mind is that the above points are generalizations. While the rough timelines around when babies start to sleep through the night are fairly well-known to us now, some babies may hit these milestones earlier or later.
Want a sleep plan made just for you?
Riley takes the guesswork out of sleep, from your baby’s first days through sleep regressions, milestones, and beyond. As your child grows, their sleep schedule will, too - and Riley will adapt to your growing baby to provide the best sleep plans and guidance for every stage.
Why Isn't My Baby Sleeping Through the Night?
Even when you've done everything "right," your baby might still wake up frequently during the night. This can be frustrating, but it's often normal and temporary. Let's look at some common reasons by age group:
Newborns (0-2 months)
1. Frequent Feeding Needs: Newborns have tiny stomachs and need to eat every 2-3 hours, day and night. This is often the most difficult season of sleep for new parents, but trust me - it does pass. [2] Beginning a consistent routine can be very helpful during this period.
2. Lack of Circadian Rhythm: Newborns haven't developed their internal clock yet, so they don't distinguish between day and night [2].
3. Startle Reflex: The Moro reflex can cause sudden jerking movements that wake your baby. [4] The good news? Swaddling can help suppress the Moro reflex and help your new baby sleep for longer stretches!
4. Overtiredness: Counterintuitively, an overtired newborn may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. [4] The best way to prevent overtiredness is to pay close attention to your little one's wake windows.
5. Environmental Adjustments: Your baby is still getting used to life outside the womb - it's a big, big transition for their little body. This adjustment can, occasionally, cause unexpected wakefulness. [1]
Infants (3 months - 1 year)
1. Growth Spurts: By 3 months, your tiny newborn has started growing into a squishy baby! Growth spurts can increase hunger and disrupt sleep, especially around 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months. [3]
2. Teething: This classic sleep disruptor often starts around 4-6 months and can cause discomfort that disrupts sleep. [3]
3. Developmental Milestones: Learning new skills like rolling over (around 4 months), sitting up (around 6 months), or crawling (around 9 months) can temporarily affect sleep for two reasons: greater propensity for overtiredness, and because you may find your baby is more interested in practicing their new skills instead of sleeping! [3]
4. Sleep Regressions: Ah, the dreaded sleep regressions. The first, and often biggest, regression typically occurs around 4 months, with follow-up regressions around 8-10 months, and at 12 months, coinciding with developmental leaps. [3]
5. Changes in Sleep Needs: As babies grow, their sleep patterns evolve, which can lead to temporary disruptions. [3]
6. Separation Anxiety: This often peaks around 6-8 months and can make nighttime separations more difficult as your baby starts to learn to miss you at night. [4]
7. Establishing Sleep Associations: Babies may struggle to fall back asleep without certain conditions (like being rocked or fed to sleep). [1]
8. Nap Transitions: Dropping a nap can temporarily disrupt nighttime sleep. [3]
9. Increased Awareness: As babies become more aware of their surroundings, they may be more easily stimulated or distracted at bedtime. [4]
10. Introduction of Solid Foods: This can affect digestion and potentially sleep patterns. [2]
Now is as good time as any for a gentle reminder: if you're concerned about your baby's sleep patterns, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician.
Helping Your Baby Sleep Through the Night
Now that we've covered the "when," let's talk about the "how." Here are some tips to encourage better sleep:
1. Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A warm bath, a gentle massage, a quiet story - find what works for your family and stick to it. This consistent, calming routine signals to your baby that it's time to wind down. [4] Even at one month, a consistent routine can help cue sleep.
2. Keep Nighttime Interactions Low-Key
Use a soft voice, keep the lights dim, and avoid stimulating play during nighttime wake-ups. [4] This helps reinforce the difference between day and night, and that nighttime is for sleeping. Keeping things as boring as possible can also help with day/night confusion.
3. Focus on Independent Sleep
Around 4-6 months, you might want to explore teaching your baby to fall asleep independently. This means breaking sleep associations like feeding and rocking to sleep. [1] It's usually a good idea to consult with your pediatrician and get the all-clear to teach independent sleep before you start.
4. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Keep the room dark, cool, and quiet. Consider using white noise to drown out household sounds. [3] Aim for a room temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C). [5]
5. Watch for Sleep Cues
Yawning, rubbing eyes, fussiness, red eyebrows - it's a good idea to learn your baby's signs of tiredness and act on them. [4] For a one-month-old, these signs might include:
- Staring off into space
- Reduced (or nonexistent) eye contact
- Redness around their eyebrows
- Losing interest in toys or activities
6. Use a Swaddle or Sleep Sack
Instead of loose blankets (which are unsafe for infant sleep), use a swaddle or sleep sack to keep your baby warm. This is safer for babies than regular bedding, and can help signal that it's time for sleep. Remember, always stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of being able to roll over.
7. Incorporate White Noise
White noise can be soothing for babies (and adults!), as it mimics the whooshing sounds of the womb. [7] Keep the volume low - around 50 decibels, or roughly the volume of a soft shower [8]
8. Maximize Daytime Stimulation
Effective playtime can do wonders for helping your baby tire themselves out! My suggestion: use the "Five F's" during wake times:
- Feeding: Offer full feedings every 2-3.5 hours during the day [1]
- Fresh Air: A little natural light can help regulate your baby's sleep cycle [1]
- Floor Time: Gentle tummy time is great for your baby - it builds neck strength and may help tire your baby out [1]
- Free Play: Let your baby explore their immediate surroundings and toys with supervision
- Face-to-Face Interaction: Talk with your little one and put your face close to theirs - doing so provides great mental stimulation [1]
Remember, helping your baby sleep through the night is a process, not an event. It can take time, patience, and sometimes a few tears - but it is possible. And remember - Riley is here to help!!
FAQs About Baby Sleep
Q: Is it normal for my 6-month-old to still wake up at night?
A: Yes, it's can be completely normal. While some babies might sleep through the night at this age, many still wake up for feedings or comfort. 6 months is a great time to begin working on independent sleep. [1]
Q: Should I wake my baby for nighttime feedings?
A: If your baby is gaining weight well, most pediatricians agree that you don't need to wake a sleeping baby for feedings after they've regained their birth weight (usually 2-4 weeks after birth). [2]
Q: My baby was sleeping through the night but now they're waking up again. What happened?
A: Honestly? The usual culprit in this case (as far as I've seen) is usually a sleep regression. If your baby is around 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, or 18 months, it's likely a sleep regression at play. Sleep regressions are often linked to developmental leaps and, are (almost always) temporary. [3]
Q: Can I co-sleep with my baby to help them sleep better?
A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room-sharing but not bed-sharing for at least the first 6 months, ideally the first year, to reduce the risk of SIDS. Unfortunately, this is an area where. we have good data to suggest that bed-sharing is dangerous for babies under 12 months. [5]
Q: How can I tell if my baby is getting enough sleep?
A: A well-rested baby is generally happy and alert when awake and tends to keep to their wake windows.
Q: Should I swaddle my newborn for sleep?
A: Swaddling is great, can help newborns feel secure and suppress the Moro reflex. Make sure to stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of rolling over. [4]
Q: Can my newborn sleep with a pacifier?
A: Yes! Pacifiers at bedtime are considered safe and may reduce SIDS risk (we have pretty good evidence to support this) [4]
Q: When can I introduce a lovey or comfort object?
A: Wait until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing any soft objects to the sleep space [5]
Conclusion
Honestly, the phrase "sleeping through the night" is a bit of a misnomer. Even adults wake briefly several times a night - we just don't remember it. For babies, "sleeping through the night" usually means a 6-8 hour stretch of sleep. [1]
As you navigate this journey, be kind to yourself. You're doing an amazing job, even when it doesn't feel like it. Every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Trust your instincts, be consistent, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Before you know it, those sleepless nights will be a distant memory. In the meantime, grab that coffee, put on your favorite sweatpants, and remember - you've got this!
5 sources cited
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