Newborn sleep can feel unpredictable. The good news: short wake windows, a calm routine, and safe sleep habits make nights easier—without perfection.
Why Newborn Sleep Matters
Sleep fuels brain growth, memory, and immune function. Babies learn and reorganize after each day’s new sights and sounds. Your newborn’s body also uses sleep to bolster defenses.
Learn more: CDC: About SIDS & Safe Sleep • NIH Safe to Sleep®
How Long Do Newborns Sleep?
Many newborns total about 14–17 hours of sleep in 24 hours, often in short stretches. That’s the National Sleep Foundation range; some babies need a bit more or less.
Sleep adds up in multiple naps and night pockets as babies feed often and take in the world between dozes.
Typical patterns in the early weeks
Totals vary. Ten hours one day, twenty the next is possible. Because sleep comes in brief bursts, it can feel like your baby “never sleeps,” even when the daily total is normal.
Newborn Wake Windows (First 10 Weeks)
Plan for short awake times of about 45–60 minutes between naps. Longer than that often leads to fussiness and harder bedtimes.
- Watch the clock and your baby’s cues.
- Begin winding down at the first signs of sleepiness.
Setting a Nighttime Routine
Humans relax into patterns. A simple, repeatable flow teaches your baby that sleep is coming.
1) Distinguish day and night
- Day naps: light room, normal household noise.
- Nights: dim lights, quiet voices, brief interactions during wakings.
- Keep the room comfortably cool; see our nursery temperature & humidity guide.
2) Warm bath + fresh diaper
A warm bath followed by a clean diaper and pajamas cues relaxation and helps set body temperature for sleep.
3) Read or sing
A short story or lullaby in a soft voice gives your baby something calming to focus on.
4) Bedtime feed and cuddle
Feeding before bed is soothing. With tiny stomachs, many newborns will still wake after a few hours to feed—normal and expected.
Why a Baby Sleep Schedule Helps
Babies don’t arrive knowing routines. Gentle structure reduces unpredictability for them—and you. Consistent patterns also protect your own sleep and patience so you can parent well.
Explore our Sleep Calculator and newborn sleep schedule guide.
Why Won’t My Baby Sleep at Night?
Night waking is part of infancy. Even with great routines, babies wake for feeds, teething, illness, or new skills.
Check basic needs
- Room too hot or cold? Adjust clothing or temperature.
- Wet or soiled diaper? Change and resettle.
- Hungry? Offer a feed, especially in growth spurts.
Look out for sleep regressions
As awareness grows, sleep can wobble. Stay consistent; it passes. Read What Is Baby Sleep Regression and the 4-Month Regression Guide.
Fill the connection tank by day
Plenty of cuddles and playtime can ease separation anxiety at night.
How to Help Your Baby Get to Sleep
Sleepy babies can still resist sleep. Your calm, repeatable steps make the difference.
Start an early feed–sleep rhythm
Use predictable cues (bath, pajamas, song, feed). Even if sleep is choppy at first, consistency pays off.
Spot sleep cues early
- Staring into space, heavy eyelids
- Yawns, less movement, finger sucking
- Fussiness (a late cue)
The window from “sleepy” to “overtired” can be short. Move toward sleep at first cues.
Avoid long awake stretches
Overtired babies release stress hormones (adrenaline, cortisol) and fight sleep. Keep wake windows short in the early months.
Don’t fear “spoiling”
Responding to needs in the first months builds security. Rocking, holding, and feeding are tools—not “bad habits.”
More practical tips: How to Put a Baby to Sleep in 40 Seconds • Can White Noise Help? • Best Bedtime Books
Baby Sleep Safety (Must-Know)
Follow trusted, evidence-based guidance to lower risk and sleep more confidently.
Always back to sleep
Place baby on their back on a firm surface with a fitted sheet—no pillows, blankets, bumpers, or toys. Review AAP safe sleep and the NIH Safe Sleep Basics.
Prevent overheating
Keep the room comfortably cool (many families aim about 68–72°F). Dress lightly; avoid hats and loose blankets in sleep. See how to dress baby for winter sleep.
Keep the crib clear
Use only a fitted sheet over a firm mattress. Consider a wearable sleep sack once appropriate. Learn more in our Safe Sleep Guidelines.
Want extra peace of mind? Explore video baby monitors and breathing monitors.
FAQs
Should I worry if my baby isn’t sleeping well?
Every baby is different. Short naps plus crying can signal overtiredness; try shorter wake windows and earlier wind-downs. If sleep stays difficult or you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
How can I help my newborn sleep longer at night?
Dim lights before bedtime, use a simple routine, keep nights quiet and boring, and try soothing sounds. See white noise tips.
When will my baby sleep through the night?
Many babies consolidate sleep between 6–12 months, but patterns vary widely. Even adults wake at night—what improves is the ability to resettle.
