How Many Times Should I Feed My Baby through the Night?

Waking up at night to feed your baby might be one of the most exhausting parts of early parenthood. But don’t worry—it’s completely normal! Your baby’s tiny tummy needs frequent refills, especially during the first few months.

So, how many times should you actually feed your baby through the night? Let’s break it down by age and include some helpful tips along the way.

Newborns (0–2 months)

Newborns need to eat often—typically every 2 to 3 hours—even at night. This means you can expect about 2 to 4 night feedings. Their tummies are small, and breast milk or formula digests quickly, so frequent feeding supports healthy growth and helps establish your milk supply. It’s also a good opportunity for bonding, as these quiet nighttime moments can help strengthen the connection between you and your baby. Although it’s tiring, remind yourself that this phase doesn’t last forever.

3–4 Months

At this stage, babies may start sleeping longer stretches, especially during the first part of the night. However, many still wake 2 to 3 times a night. Some might wake out of hunger, while others may just need comfort. Sleep regressions are also common around 4 months, which can cause more frequent wakings. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine, and be responsive to your baby’s cues to determine if they truly need a feed or just some soothing.

5–6 Months

Here’s where things start to shift. Babies often begin consolidating sleep and may only need 1 to 2 feedings overnight. Formula-fed babies, in particular, might drop to just 1 night feed or none at all. Breastfed babies may still wake once. If your baby is gaining weight steadily and eating well during the day, you can start thinking about night weaning—but always consult your paediatrician first. Offering a dream feed before you go to bed may also help reduce overnight wake-ups.

7–9 Months

Many babies can sleep through the night without feeding by now, especially if they’re eating solid foods during the day. Breastfed babies may still wake once, but often it’s more for soothing than hunger. This is a great time to gently encourage self-soothing skills, like giving your baby a comfort object (if age-appropriate) or slowly decreasing night feed durations.

10–12 Months

By this age, most babies don’t need night feedings anymore. They’re typically getting enough calories from solid foods and daytime milk feeds. If your little one still wakes, try settling them with cuddles or gentle reassurance instead of feeding right away. If you’re still nursing, some babies may continue to wake for comfort nursing—this is totally normal, and it’s okay to wean gradually based on what works for both of you.

Tips to Make Night Feedings Easier

• Keep the lights low and noise minimal to avoid overstimulating your baby.
• Try feeding in a side-lying or comfortable seated position so you can rest a bit, too.
• Keep baby close to your bed for easier access during night wakings—co-sleeping (safely) or using a bedside bassinet can help.
• Wear nursing-friendly clothes or have bottles prepped to make feeds quicker and less disruptive.
• Stay calm and patient—it’s okay to feel tired and overwhelmed. These nights won’t last forever.

Final Thoughts

Remember, every baby is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all schedule for night feeds. Watch your baby, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family, or healthcare provider. This journey can be tiring, but you’re doing an amazing job. And the good news? Better sleep for both of you is just around the corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I wake my baby to feed at night?

A: If your newborn hasn’t fed in 3 to 4 hours, especially in the early weeks, yes. After a few weeks, most healthy babies will wake when they’re hungry, so you may no longer need to wake them.

Q: How do I know if my baby is waking up out of habit or hunger?

A: If your baby feeds for just a few minutes and falls back asleep quickly, it could be a habit. Try soothing with a pacifier, gentle touch, or soft humming first and see if they settle without feeding.

Q: When can I start weaning at night?

A: Many babies are ready between 5 to 6 months. But every baby is different, so always check with your doctor first. Start gradually by reducing the amount of feed or shortening the feeding time.

Q: Is it okay if my baby still needs night feeds past 6 months?

A: Absolutely. Some babies need more time. As long as your paediatrician isn’t concerned about growth or overall health, it’s okay to continue nighttime feeds.

Q: What if my baby wakes more during a growth spurt?

A: That’s totally normal. Babies often feed more frequently, even at night, during growth spurts. It’s their way of getting the extra energy and nutrients they need.