Newborns sleep a total of 14–17 hours in a 24-hour period, but their sleep patterns are unpredictable in the early months. Frequent night wakings are completely normal—your baby isn’t a “bad sleeper,” and you’re not doing anything wrong. Their small stomachs require frequent feedings, their sleep cycles are short (about 40 minutes), and their circadian rhythm is still developing, all of which contribute to fragmented sleep.

The Ups & Downs of Newborn Sleep:

✅ By around three months, some babies start sleeping in 4–6 hour stretches.
⚠️ These longer stretches may be inconsistent due to growth spurts, teething, and illness.

What Sleep Experts Want You to Know:

• Newborns need to eat frequently, including overnight.
• Comforting your baby won’t spoil them—it helps them feel safe and secure.
• Day-night confusion is normal. You can help by keeping days bright and active and nights calm and dimly lit.
• Daytime sleep is strong in newborns. A predictable schedule isn’t necessary until more defined wake-sleep patterns emerge around 3–4 months.
• Healthy sleep habits matter. Keeping their sleep space cool and dark and using white noise can help.
• Room-sharing is recommended for at least six months for safety and convenience.
• Newborn sleep is constantly changing. Flexibility and patience are key.

Typical Sleep Patterns for Months 0–3:

🟢 Total sleep: 14–17 hours per day
🟢 Naps: 3 to 5 naps, totaling 7–9 hours
🟢 Nighttime sleep: 8–9 hours, with feedings every 2–3 hours

While newborn sleep can be unpredictable, small adjustments can encourage better rest for both you and your baby.