Guide
Baby wake windows by age
A wake window is how long a baby can comfortably stay awake between sleeps. Newborns tire quickly; the window stretches steadily over the first year.
| Age | Wake window |
|---|---|
| 🐣 Newborn · first 2 weeks | 35m – 1h |
| 🌱 2–6 weeks | 45m – 1h 15m |
| 🌼 6–12 weeks | 1h – 1h 30m |
| 🌈 3–4 months | 1h 15m – 2h |
| 🧸 4–6 months | 1h 45m – 2h 30m |
| 🦋 6–9 months | 2h – 3h |
| ⭐️ 9–12 months | 2h 30m – 3h 30m |
| 🎈 1 year + | 3h – 5h |
General, widely published guidance (AAP, NHS and similar). Every baby is different.
Watch for sleepy cues
Yawning, staring, rubbing eyes, fussing or turning away are signs your baby is ready for sleep. Catching them early often makes settling easier.
Ranges, not rules
Every baby is different, and the first wake window of the morning is often the shortest. Use these ranges to spot patterns, not to keep a baby awake.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you’re worried about your baby, talk to your doctor or midwife.