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How much sleep does my baby need?

Some babies need more sleep than others and every baby is different. 

As they grow, their sleep patterns change. It might sometimes feel like as soon as they begin settling into a routine, their sleep pattern alters again – this is normal.  

Sleep regression can occur at any time and is a normal part of your baby’s development. You can read more about sleep regression here.

Most parents with babies under one year old find their baby sleeps for less than 4 hours at a time, with reasons for disturbed sleep in babies including hunger and teething pains.

Products or advice that claim to get your baby to sleep for longer can be dangerous, as they can affect your baby’s ability to wake up if they need to. You should always follow safe sleep advice.

If you have any concerns about your baby’s sleep, speak to a health professional such as a member of your health visiting team. 

Useful links

Health for Under 5’s – Safer sleeping

Lullaby Trust – Baby sleep patterns

ICON – Babies cry, you can cope

Page last reviewed: 11-08-2025

Next review due: 11-08-2028