The 5 Month Sleep Routine
Awake windows, nap structure, feeding expectations, and what a typical day can look like
By five months of age, many babies are starting to settle into a more predictable rhythm across the day, even though sleep is still very much in flux. Naps are often more reliable than they were at four months, awake windows have lengthened, and some babies are beginning to stretch night sleep a little further.
This stage often follows on from the 4 month sleep regression, where sleep can feel particularly disrupted. As things begin to stabilise again, routines can start to take shape — but flexibility is still key. At this age, sleep works best when it is guided by awake windows rather than the clock, with routines acting as a loose framework rather than something rigid.
How much sleep does a 5 month old need?
Most five month olds are aiming for approximately 12–15 hours of total sleep across 24 hours, including both day sleep and overnight sleep. Some babies sit comfortably at the higher end of this range, while others need slightly less, particularly if they are very alert or developmentally busy.
Day sleep is typically spread across three naps, with night sleep beginning to lengthen for some babies.
Feeding at 5 months
At this age, most babies are having around 3–4 milk feeds during the day, with 1–2 feeds overnight still very common. Some babies may naturally start to reduce overnight feeds, while others continue to need them a little longer.
Feeding patterns can fluctuate during periods of growth, development, or sleep disruption, so variation here is completely normal.
Awake windows at 5 months
By five months, awake windows have usually stretched slightly from the four month stage. Most babies do well with awake windows of around 2 hours 15 minutes.
If awake windows are too short, you may see frequent night waking or short naps. If they are too long, settling can become harder and naps may shorten again. Understanding the balance between under vs overtired can be really helpful when tweaking sleep at this age.
How many naps at 5 months
Most babies are on three naps per day at five months. These naps often begin to take on a more predictable pattern, with one longer nap and two shorter ones, although this can vary from baby to baby.
If naps are still inconsistent, this does not mean sleep training is required yet. Many babies simply need time, consistency, and development to catch up.
5 Month Sleep Routine Examples
These routines are examples only and are best used as guides rather than strict schedules.
Short / Long Nap Routine
This pattern works well for babies who take a shorter morning nap and a longer midday nap.
Medium / Medium Nap Routine
This pattern suits babies who are able to take two more evenly balanced naps during the day.
Both routines allow for appropriate awake windows, sufficient day sleep, and enough sleep pressure for bedtime.
Is it time to start sleep training
Five months is often the age where families begin asking when to start sleep training, especially if night waking is frequent or settling feels unsustainable.
Sleep training does not need to be rushed, and it is not the right choice for every family at this exact stage. Understanding what sleep training is, what options exist, and how they align with your family values can help you decide if or when you’re ready.
For some families, small routine tweaks are enough. For others, more structured support becomes helpful as sleep patterns continue to mature.
Supporting sleep at 5 months
Continue to prioritise awake windows over the clock but starting to gradually move
Expect naps to vary in length from day to day
Keep wind down routines calm and predictable
Watch for signs of under or overtiredness
Make changes gradually rather than all at once
Looking ahead
From five months onward, sleep continues to evolve quickly. Awake windows stretch, naps consolidate, and routines change again over the coming months.
The 5–24 Month Infant Course supports you through this stage and beyond, with guidance that adapts as your baby grows, covering routines, regressions, settling changes, and nap transitions all the way through toddlerhood.
Eva Beke
Certified Paediatric Sleep Consultant
Founder The Sleepy Little Bubs
I’m a certified paediatric sleep consultant and the founder of The Sleepy Little Bubs. I support families through baby and toddler sleep with practical, evidence-based guidance that considers the whole picture - sleep, development, routines, feeding, and family dynamics.
My approach is realistic, supportive, and designed to evolve as your child grows, so you’re not just getting help for today, but confidence moving forward.
The Smarter Way to Invest in Better Sleep
Supporting sleep doesn’t have to mean starting over every time something changes.
Our sleep courses are built to support you long term, with age specific guidance that adapts as your child grows. From early routines and regressions to nap transitions and toddler sleep challenges, you’ll have a clear plan and ongoing support so you can respond with confidence at every stage.
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