How Much Should Your Baby Sleep?
Baby sleep needs change dramatically in the first two years of life. Our baby sleep calculator gives you age-appropriate sleep targets, ideal nap windows, and suggested bedtimes — helping you build a schedule that works for your baby's developmental stage.
Baby Sleep Needs by Age
- Newborn (0–3 months): 14–17 hours/day in 2–4 hour stretches
- 3–6 months: 12–15 hours/day — sleep consolidating, longer night stretches emerging
- 6–9 months: 12–14 hours — 2 naps, nights stretching to 10–12 hours
- 9–12 months: 12–14 hours — 2 naps, may start resisting second nap
- 12–18 months: 11–14 hours — transitioning to 1 nap
- 18 months–3 years: 11–14 hours with 1 nap
Safe Sleep Guidelines (AAP 2022)
- Always place baby on their back to sleep — every sleep, every time
- Firm, flat mattress with fitted sheet only — no pillows, blankets, or bumpers
- Room-share for at least 6 months (ideally 12) — never bed-share
- Keep sleep space free of loose items
- Offer a pacifier at sleep time (once breastfeeding established)
What is a wake window?A wake window is the amount of time a baby can comfortably stay awake between naps. Too long = overtired. Too short = can't build enough sleep pressure.
When do babies sleep through the night?Most babies can sleep 5–6 hour stretches by 3–4 months. 'Through the night' (6+ hours) is often possible by 4–6 months with consistent sleep habits.
Is it normal for newborns to mix up day and night?Yes. Newborns don't have a developed circadian rhythm until around 3–4 months. Expose them to natural light during the day and keep nights dark and quiet to help reset their clock.