Why ‘Never Wake a Sleeping Baby’ Is Outdated Advice

We’ve all heard the saying, “Never wake a sleeping baby.” It’s one of those phrases that gets passed around like gospel in parenting circles. But let me just say it: this advice is outdated, and honestly? It’s not doing us—or our babies—any favors.

Here’s the thing: letting your baby sleep for hours during the day might sound like a dream (literally), but if it means they’re up all night, you’re setting yourself up for a cycle of exhaustion. Let’s break down why waking your baby sometimes is actually the better move.

1️⃣ Why Waking a Sleeping Baby Can Be Necessary

Babies need sleep...no argument there. But they also need a balance between daytime and nighttime sleep to establish healthy rhythms. If your baby is snoozing for 6 hours straight during the day, guess what? That’s 6 hours they’re not sleeping at night.

Here’s the goal: we want their longest stretch of sleep to happen overnight. That’s when you’re sleeping too, and it’s when their body is naturally wired to rest more deeply. So yes, sometimes you’ll need to gently wake your baby during the day to help them get on track.

2️⃣ When to Wake Your Baby

• Daytime Naps:
  If your baby is napping longer than 2-3 hours during the day, it’s time to wake them. This ensures they’re not getting too much daytime sleep and can save those longer stretches for nighttime.

• Late Afternoon Naps:
  If it’s close to bedtime and your baby is still snoozing, wake them up! A long nap too late in the day can make it harder for them to settle down at night.

• Feeding Schedules (for Newborns):
  For newborns, it’s important to wake them every 2-3 hours during the day for feeds (unless your doctor advises otherwise). This helps them get the calories they need during the day so they’re not waking up hungry all night.

3️⃣ When NOT to Wake Your Baby

• Overnight Sleep:
  If your baby is sleeping well at night and your pediatrician has given the green light, let them sleep! Overnight sleep is critical for their growth and development—and for your sanity.

• If They’re Sick or Overtired:
  Babies who are sick or overtired often need extra rest to recover. In these cases, let them sleep as much as they need.

4️⃣ How to Wake Your Baby Gently

Waking a sleeping baby doesn’t have to be a dramatic event. Here are a few gentle ways to rouse them:

• Open the curtains to let in natural light.
• Talk to them softly or sing a little song.
• Gently rub their back or tummy.
• Change their diaper to help them wake up gradually.

5️⃣ Why This Phrase Needs to Go

The idea that you should never wake a sleeping baby creates unnecessary guilt for parents. It’s okay to wake your baby if it’s going to help them (and you) get better sleep overall. Sleep isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality and timing too.

By waking your baby strategically during the day, you’re helping them establish healthy sleep habits that will benefit them in the long run. And let’s be real: a well-rested baby means a well-rested parent, and that’s a win for everyone.

6️⃣ Let's Sum This Up!

• Letting your baby sleep too long during the day can disrupt their nighttime sleep.
• Wake your baby during the day if naps are too long or too late.
• Overnight sleep is sacred—don’t wake them unless medically necessary.
• Gently waking your baby in the day time can help them establish a healthy sleep routine.

So, let’s retire the phrase “Never wake a sleeping baby,” shall we? Sometimes, waking them is exactly what they need to thrive—and what you need to sleeeeep!

If you’re ready to get more sleep and feel confident about your baby’s sleep routine, I’ve got just the thing! My Cozy Baby Sleep Courses are designed to meet you where you’re at.

👉 Click here if you have a newborn (0-3 months)
👉 Click here if you have a baby (4-24 months)

Let’s get you and your baby the rest you deserve—starting tonight!