Science Behind Newborn Sleep - Honeydew Sleep

The Science Behind Newborn Sleep: Why Babies Snooze So Often

May 08, 2025 Paul Souliac

If you're a new parent, you've likely noticed that your newborn seems to sleep a lot. Newborns can sleep anywhere from 14 to 17 hours a day, though not all at once. This extensive sleep is not just a quirk; it's a vital part of your baby's growth and development. Let's explore the reasons behind this and how you can support your baby's sleep needs.

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By Honeydew Sleep

Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns

How Much Do Newborns Sleep?

Newborns typically sleep between 14 to 17 hours over a 24-hour period, though some may sleep up to 19 hours. However, their sleep is fragmented into short periods of 2 to 4 hours, both day and night, due to their need for frequent feedings.

Why So Much Sleep?

The extensive sleep in newborns supports rapid brain development. During sleep, particularly active sleep (similar to REM sleep in adults), the brain processes information and forms neural connections. This is crucial as the baby's brain grows and adapts to the new environment.

The Role of Sleep in Development

Sleep is not just rest for newborns; it's an active period where significant development occurs.

Brain Development

During active sleep, the brain is highly active, which is believed to be essential for cognitive development. This phase of sleep helps in processing experiences and learning.

Physical Growth

Growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep stages. This hormone is vital for physical growth, aiding in the development of muscles and tissues.

Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Cycles

Developing a Sleep-Wake Cycle

Newborns are not born with a developed circadian rhythm. This means they don't distinguish between day and night, leading to irregular sleep patterns. Over the first few months, exposure to natural light during the day and darkness at night helps in developing this rhythm.

Sleep Cycle Duration

In newborns, sleep cycles are shorter, lasting about 50 minutes, compared to 90 minutes in adults. They spend more time in active sleep, which is lighter and more easily disrupted.

Tips for Supporting Your Newborn's Sleep

Create a Consistent Routine: Even at a young age, a consistent bedtime routine can signal to your baby that it's time to sleep.
Daytime Exposure: Expose your baby to natural light during the day to help develop their circadian rhythm.
Nighttime Environment: Keep the room dark and quiet during nighttime feedings to reinforce the difference between day and night.
Safe Sleep Practices: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress, without loose bedding or toys.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

While variations in sleep patterns are normal, consult your pediatrician if:

Your baby sleeps significantly more or less than the typical range.
There are difficulties in waking your baby for feedings.
Your baby is unusually irritable or lethargic.

Enhance Your Sleep with Honeydew Sleep Products

Discover More About Us - Honeydew Sleep

Welcome to Honeydew Sleep, a family-operated business with a heartfelt mission to revolutionize the way the world sleeps. With over 50 years of collective experience in the sleep industry, we've witnessed firsthand the profound impact that the right pillow can have. Imagine starting every day feeling rejuvenated, pain-free, and bursting with energy — this is the dream we offer at Honeydew.

Craftsmanship and Passion in Every Pillow

Our pillows aren’t just made; they’re crafted with precision, care, and genuine passion. From the luxurious fabrics to the innovative design, every component of our pillows is selected for its superior quality and ability to deliver an exceptional sleep experience. The attention to detail extends from the carefully selected fill materials to each stitch and seam, ensuring that every product is a testament to our commitment and love for better sleep.

Why Choose Honeydew Sleep?

Buying a Honeydew pillow is more than a purchase—it's an investment in your health. A good night's sleep has the power to transform your day, boosting your energy levels, lifting your mood, and enhancing your overall quality of life. We at Honeydew Sleep want you to live at your absolute best:

Rediscover Vitality: Wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day with vigor.
Upgrade Your Comfort: Experience the ultimate comfort designed for your specific sleep needs.
Embrace Joyful Mornings: Let go of morning grogginess and embrace a lifestyle filled with enthusiasm.

We are proud of our products and confident that you will cherish your Honeydew pillow just as much as we enjoy crafting them. Become a part of our family and embrace a life of energy, happiness, and impeccable comfort. Start transforming your life, one night at a time.

Join us on our mission: Improve lives, enhance sleep, and help everyone rediscover their most vibrant, energetic, and joyous selves. You deserve it.

Our Best Pillow - Honeydew Sleep

Description (The Scrumptious Side Pillow):

Experience unparalleled comfort with our unique Scrumptious Side Pillow, specially designed to cradle your neck and shoulders perfectly. Its distinctive curve aligns your spine while you rest, providing both comfort and support. The proprietary fill not only offers a luxurious feel but also excels in alleviating neck and shoulder discomfort.

Money Back Guarantee

You can try our pillow risk-free! We proudly offer a 60-night money-back guarantee on all purchases.

Dimensions & Specifications

Our pillows are as exceptional in size as they are in comfort. Designed deliberately with our unique fill, these pillows come in specific dimensions and weights to optimize your sleep quality:

Queen Size: Approximately 27" x 15"
King Size: Approximately 30" x 17"

Each box includes one Scrumptious Side Pillow (note: pillowcase sold separately).

Care Instructions

Caring for your pillow is easy:

Use a machine washable (and tumble dry) cover.
Remove the fill before washing.
Utilize the hidden zipper on the back for easy maintenance.

To enhance the pillow's hygiene and feel, consider using our high-quality pillowcases, which are not only easy to wash and dry but also make your pillow more breathable and incredibly soft.

Warranty Information

Our commitment to quality is backed by a 3-year limited warranty that covers any defects in materials and workmanship.

Transform your sleep with the Scrumptious Side Pillow — designed for ultimate comfort and perfected for your wellness.

→ Take time to discover our products

→ Also our product on Amazon: Honeydew Scrumptious Cooling Side Sleeping Pillow for Adults | Best for Side Sleepers | for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief | Neck Support Pillows for Sleeping | Made in The USA (Queen Size)

The Classic Scrumptious Pillow

Description (The Classic Scrumptious Pillow)

The Classic Scrumptious Pillow features the distinct fill and fabric seen in our Scrumptious Side Pillow but presents it in the traditional rectangular pillow shape.

COMPLIMENTARY SHIPPING ACROSS THE NATION

We are pleased to offer complimentary shipping on all orders exceeding $50 within the United States. (See Full Details)

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

Every purchase comes with a 60-night satisfaction guarantee. (See Full Details)

PRODUCT DIMENSIONS & DETAILS

Our pillows stand apart, defined by unique dimensions and weights, guided by our exceptional fill. These characteristics are intentionally selected to ensure your optimal sleep experience.

Here's what to expect:

• The Queen size is approximately 27" x 15"

• The King size is approximately 30" x 17"

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

All our pillows come with machine-washable covers that can also be tumble-dried. Simply remove the fill using the discreet zipper at the back before washing.

For optimal cleanliness and to extend the life of your pillow, we recommend using one of our superb pillowcases. They not only shield your pillow but are also effortless to launder, enhancing the cooling effect and offering unparalleled softness. Your skin will surely appreciate it :)

WARRANTY

This product is protected by a 3-year limited warranty that covers material and manufacturing defects.

For the comprehensive warranty details, click (here).

→ Take time to discover our products