How Much Sleep Does My 3-Month-Old Need?

Congratulations on your new addition to the family! As your baby grows and develops, you’ll learn about their unique sleep patterns. By understanding how much sleep a 3-month-old needs, you can create a supportive sleep environment that promotes healthy rest and development.

How Much Sleep Do 3-Month-Olds Need?

On average, 3-month-old babies need around 14-17 hours of sleep per day. This includes both nighttime sleep and daytime naps.

Nighttime sleep: 10-12 hours
Daytime naps: 4-5 naps of 30-60 minutes each

Sleep Patterns of 3-Month-Olds

At 3 months old, your baby’s sleep patterns are still developing. They may not have a regular sleep schedule yet, and their sleep cycles may be shorter than those of older babies.

It’s common for 3-month-olds to wake up frequently at night. They may need to feed, be changed, or simply be comforted. As your baby gets older, their sleep cycles will gradually lengthen and they will start to sleep for longer stretches at night.

Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits

Create a regular sleep schedule. Put your baby down for bed and naps at the same time each day, even on weekends.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. This could include a warm bath, massage, and reading a book.
Make sure your baby’s sleep environment is safe and comfortable. This means using a firm mattress, blankets that are tucked in securely, and avoiding loose objects in the crib.
Avoid overstimulating your baby before bed. Keep the lights low and avoid playing loud music or games before bed.
Don’t be afraid to soothe your baby. If your baby wakes up in the night, it’s okay to comfort them. However, try to avoid rocking or feeding them back to sleep too often, as this can make it harder for them to learn to self-soothe.

When to Call the Doctor

If your 3-month-old is not sleeping well, it’s important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is affecting their sleep.

Call your doctor if your baby: