How to Make a Baby Sleep Log (And Why You’ll Be So Glad You Did)
Keeping track of your baby’s sleep might sound like just another thing to do, but seriously, it can make life so much easier. A sleep log helps you spot patterns, figure out what’s throwing things off, and create a routine that actually works. Bonus: it might even help you get a little more sleep too.
Why Bother Tracking Baby Sleep?
Babies aren’t born with predictable sleep habits (unfortunately). Writing things down helps you figure out when your baby naturally sleeps best, how long their naps are, and what might be waking them up. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics says that being consistent and tuned into your baby’s sleep needs can really help things improve (AAP, 2023).
What a Baby Sleep Log Looks Like
You don’t need anything fancy, just jot down:
- When your baby falls asleep
- When they wake up
- How long the nap lasted
- Any extra notes (like fussiness, how long it took to fall asleep, or if you used a sound machine)
Start with just one day. You’ll get the hang of it quickly.
Signs You Might Want to Start Logging Sleep
- Your baby’s sleep is all over the place
- Naps are short or inconsistent
- You’re thinking about starting some kind of sleep training
Should You Use Paper, an App, or a Spreadsheet?
Here’s the vibe check:
- Paper logs = great if you like writing things down (keep it on the fridge!)
- Apps = awesome when you’re exhausted—apps like Huckleberry and Baby Tracker track it all for you
- Spreadsheets = perfect if you want to nerd out on data trends
What’s “Normal” Sleep at Different Ages?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
|
Age |
Total Sleep (24 hrs) |
Naps |
Awake Time Between Naps |
|
0–3 months |
14–17 hours |
4–6 |
45 mins–1.5 hrs |
|
4–6 months |
12–15 hours |
3–4 |
1.5–2.5 hrs |
|
6–12 months |
12–14 hours |
2–3 |
2–4 hrs |
How a Log Helps You Spot Sleep Disruptions
Sleep logs make changes obvious. Like if naps suddenly get shorter or your baby starts waking up more often, it’s a clue something’s off, maybe they need a longer wake window, maybe they’re overtired, or maybe it’s time to add a sound machine tool.
Pro Tips to Improve Naps
- Stick to the same nap routine every day (babies love a good rhythm)
- Try a white noise machine like the Baby Shusher Sleep Miracle, it helps babies settle faster
- Track feedings too; hunger can sneak in and mess with sleep
- Start winding down about 15–20 minutes before nap time
Why the Baby Shusher Is a Nap-Time MVP
The Shusher Portable Soothing Sleep Device mimics that “shhhh” sound babies heard in the womb. Research says it works because it’s familiar and calming (Spencer et al., 1990). Parents swear by it during naps, bedtime, car rides, you name it.
Curious how it works? Check out why white noise helps babies sleep.
Real Parent Wins
“We were in the middle of the four-month sleep regression, and I was losing my mind. I started logging sleep, and within days realized we needed longer wake windows. Instant improvement.” — Jenna, mom of one
Easy Ways to Start Tracking
- Printable Sleep Log: Download it here and stick it on the fridge
- Apps We Love: Huckleberry or Napper
FAQs (Because You’re Not the Only One Wondering)
Q: When should I start tracking?
A: Anytime! A lot of parents start between 2–4 weeks once baby’s not sleeping 24/7.
Q: How long do I need to track for it to help?
A: Try two weeks—you’ll start to see patterns. Keep it going if you’re in a sleep training phase.
Does sleep tracking help with regressions?
A: Yes! When sleep goes sideways, your log shows exactly what’s changed so you can adjust faster.
Q: How do I know if my baby needs more sleep?
A: Compare your log to age-based sleep needs and watch for signs like crankiness or waking early from naps.
Q: Is the Baby Shusher really worth it?
A: Totally. Parents love it, and studies say white noise helps babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer (Spencer et al., 1990).
Bottom Line: Track It!
Sleep logging isn’t magic, but it is one of those little things that can make your life way easier. You’ll feel more in control, and your baby will thank you with better naps (probably).
📣 Want More Good Naps (and Maybe a Nap for You)?
Grab the Baby Shusher—your new nap time BFF.
