Few parenting questions are as universal as: “When will my baby finally sleep through the night?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Babies develop at different rates, and “sleeping through the night” often means something different than you might think.

What Does “Sleeping Through the Night” Actually Mean?

Many parents imagine an uninterrupted 10–12 hours. In reality, experts define “sleeping through the night” as:

A 5–8 hour stretch of sleep without waking for a feed (varies by age).
Babies still experience natural sleep cycles (light, deep, REM), and may stir briefly before settling themselves back down.

Typical Age Ranges for Sleeping Through the Night

Every baby is different, but here are common milestones:

Newborn (0–3 months)

Night feedings are necessary.
Expect sleep in 2–4 hour chunks.

14–16 Weeks (3.5–4 months)

This is the ideal window to begin sleep training if parents want to teach independent sleep skills.
Babies are developmentally ready to start learning to fall asleep on their own.
Starting early can help prevent prolonged sleep associations (rocking, feeding, bouncing to sleep).

4–6 Months

If sleep training has started, many babies begin sleeping 6–8 hour stretches.
Night feeds may naturally reduce if daytime intake is strong.

6–9 Months

Most babies can sleep 8–10 hours overnight.
Those with strong independent sleep skills often consolidate earlier.

9–12 Months

Most babies can sleep 10–12 hours overnight with no feedings.

12+ Months

Consistency with routines + independent sleep skills = consolidated nights.

😴 Tired of Googling “how much sleep does my baby need?

I sure was. That’s exactly why I created this Master Sleep Needs Chart — so you can stop the endless searching and finally have a clear, age-by-age guide all in one place (and on one page)!

Just pop your email in below and it’s yours free.

Keep me in the loop with your sleep tips, resources, and community updates.

Signs Your Baby May Be Ready to Sleep Longer Stretches

Gaining weight consistently
Eating well during the day
Self-soothing (falling asleep without rocking/feeding every time)
Doctor has cleared for dropping night feeds

How to Encourage Longer Night Sleep

Consistent bedtime routine (bath, book, cuddle, bed)
Age-appropriate wake windows and naps to prevent overtiredness
Full feeds during the day (not snacking all day—meaning, trying your best to feed on an appropriate schedule. Roughly 2.5-3 hours apart for feeds)
Sleep environment: dark, cool, white noise

Final Thoughts

There’s no “magic age,” but with the right sleep foundations, most babies are capable of long, restful stretches by 6–9 months. If your little one is struggling, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

Want personalized help getting your baby to sleep through the night? Book your free 15-minute sleep consultation today.

When Will My Baby Sleep Through the Night? (What Parents Should Know)