By five months old, many babies are becoming more predictable with sleep, feeding, and playtime. At this age, babies typically take 3 naps per day, stay awake longer between sleeps, and begin settling into a more consistent bedtime.
As a mom of 3, I found knowing what to expect for a schedule with my babies was super helpful for reducing stress. If you have a 5 month old and you’re feeling unsure about how your day should look, this guide will walk you through a realistic 5 month old schedule.
Please note, there are affiliate links in this post. Read my privacy & disclosure policy at the bottom of this page to learn more.
Sample 5 Month Old Schedule
Here is an example of what a typical day might look like. Just keep in mind that this schedule is simply a guide. Your baby’s naps and bedtime may vary slightly and that’s completely normal. Focus on keeping time between naps and feeds similar to this schedule.
- 7:00 AM – Wake and feed
- 9:00 AM – Morning nap
- 10:15 AM – Wake and feed
- 12:30 PM – Afternoon nap
- 2:00 PM – Wake and feed
- 4:15 PM – Short third nap
- 5:00 PM – Wake and feed
- 6:30 PM – Feeding and bedtime routine
- 7:00 PM – Bedtime
How Much Sleep Does a 5 Month Old Need?
Most 5 month-olds need 14–15 hours of total sleep per day, including naps and nighttime sleep. Typical sleep patterns include:
- Night sleep: 10–12 hours
- Daytime sleep: 3–4 hours
- Number of naps: 3 naps per day
- Wake windows: 2–2.5 hours between sleeps
I always like to remind parents of the importance of wake windows. Sticking with age appropriate time between sleep is important because keeping your baby awake too long can actually lead to overtiredness, which actually makes sleep harder.
Feeding Schedule for a 5 Month Old
At five months, babies usually eat every 3–4 hours during the day and most babies will have 4–6 milk feedings per day (breast milk or formula). Some families begin introducing solids around this time, but milk should still remain your baby’s primary source of nutrition.
Tips for Following a 5 Month Old Schedule
Now that you understand what a 5 month old schedule should look like, there are some things you can do to help stick with this routine each day. Here are my top tips for helping a 5 month old baby follow their schedule to make your life and your baby’s life run a little bit smoother.
Watch Wake Windows
As discussed above, most 5 month olds stay awake for 2–2.5 hours at a time. Sticking with this wake window can help prevent overtiredness, which is essential for helping your little one sleep well.
Keep Bedtime Consistent
A consistent bedtime helps regulate your baby’s internal clock and often improves nighttime sleep.
Create a Simple Bedtime Routine
A predictable routine signals that sleep is coming. Many families use a routine such as:
- Bath
- Pajamas & diaper change
- Feeding
- Book or song
- Into the crib
Don’t Stress About Perfection
Your schedule should be flexible, not rigid. Some days naps will be shorter or longer and that’s completely normal.
Signs Your Baby’s Schedule Is Working
A good schedule usually results in easier naps, a smoother bedtime, fewer overtired meltdowns, and more predictable days. If your baby is regularly fighting naps or wakes frequently overnight, adjusting wake windows or nap timing can often help.
You will also want to make sure your baby is comfortable in their sleep clothes and nursery setting. I recommend checking out this baby sleeping clothes guide and having the following in the nursery:
- Blackout Curtains or Shades
- Sound Machine
- Sleep sack (but make sure to not overheat your baby with it)
More Baby Sleep & Schedule Help
If you are finding your baby is struggling to be on a similar schedule to the one given above, or if your baby is not sleeping well at night, there are some more things I recommend you can do. Getting good sleep for everyone in your household will relieve a lot of stress and anxiety.
For getting your baby to sleep well at night I recommend the Baby DREAM System (which you can start implementing as early as 4 months old) and for more help getting your baby on a schedule, check out the Ultimate Baby Sleep Schedules Guide to eliminate short naps and early wakings.
A consistent 5 month old schedule can make daily life much easier by supporting your baby’s natural sleep rhythms.
While every baby develops differently, focusing on appropriate wake windows, three daily naps, and a calming bedtime routine can help your baby get the rest they need to grow and thrive. Remember, the goal is finding a rhythm that works for both you and your baby. Good luck!
