If you've found this post, you likely have questions about night weaning. This blog covers when to stop feeding at night, how to do it, and how night weaning and sleep training can work together.

Expert Tip: Every baby is different. Always check with your pediatrician before starting night weaning to make sure it’s right for your little one.

When Can I Stop Night Feeds?

Most doctors say you can stop waking your baby for night feedings around 3-4 months if they’re growing well. Some babies might still need night feeds until closer to 9 months, so it’s always a good idea to discuss this with your pediatrician.

Based on our team's years of experience as sleep consultants, we find that infant stomachs tend to be large enough to hold enough milk (breast or formula) to sustain a nighttime fast once they are about 15 pounds.

Will My Baby Stop Night Feedings Naturally?

Maybe! Some babies naturally stop eating at night, while others need a bit of help.

If your baby wakes at night, you can still work towards better sleep while respecting their hunger cues. A gradual night weaning approach and helping your baby develop independent sleep skills can gently shift most of their calories to the daytime.

Can I Night Wean and Sleep Train at the Same Time?

Yes! Most babies who are developmentally ready for sleep training are also ready to reduce or fully wean night feedings.

Check out this Instagram post about middle of the night feeds and how to get longer sleep stretches.

How Long Does Night Weaning Take?

It really depends on your baby and your goals. Some family's choose to adjust in just a few nights, while others need a more gradual process pushing feeds out 30 minutes later, increasing every few nights.

For some babies, especially those over 12 months who aren’t eating much during night feeds, a cold-turkey approach is likely appropriate and will be quicker than a gradual approach.

Will My Milk Supply Drop if My Baby Sleeps Through the Night?

Probably not. A gradual approach to night weaning can help support your milk supply as your baby transitions most feedings to the daytime. If you’re concerned, adding a pumping session before bed or between 3-5 a.m. can help maintain your supply.

How Can I Break a Feeding-to-Sleep Association?

To break this association, create space between feeding and sleep. Here are a few tips:

• Make feeding the first step in the bedtime routine—even before the bath if needed!
• Move feedings outside of the nursery.
• Keep lights on, sound machine off, and add some stimulation to avoid sleep cues.
• Keep your baby fully awake during feedings.

How Do I Stop Night Feedings for My 2-Year-Old?

• Prioritize daytime calories. Some toddlers wake at night because they aren’t eating enough during the day.
• Offer a bedtime snack. A small, filling snack before bed can help ensure they’re not hungry overnight. We recommend doing this before starting the bedtime routine.
• Replace milk with water at night. Prepare your toddler for this change during their bedtime routine.
• Introduce a lovey. It can offer comfort instead of the night feed.

Are Newborns and Infants Noisy Sleepers?

Yes! Newborns and infants are very loud and active sleepers. They might move, grunt, groan, and even cry out in their sleep. It can sound like they’re awake, but they might just be getting their wiggles out.

Tip: Wait until your baby is really upset or crying before going to them. If you give them a chance by pausing first, they might surprise you and settle back to sleep on their own.

How Do I Start Night Weaning?

1. Make sure it’s the right time. Check with your pediatrician.
2. Gradually shift calories to the daytime. Offer full feedings every 2.5-3.5 hours during the day (even if it means waking them from a nap) and slowly reduce the amount at night.
3. Support independent sleep skills. This will help your baby fall back to sleep at night without needing a feed.

If you’d like more personalized guidance or support, I’m here to help- book a free intro call today!