⏰ Wake Window Calculator

A wake window is the time a baby is awake between sleeps. Too short and they won't sleep well. Too long and they get overtired (which looks the same as not tired, but ends in tears).

Recommended wake window
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Daily naps
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Total sleep / day
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Signs Wake Window Is Too Long (Overtired)

  • Rubbing eyes, pulling ears
  • Cranky, fussy, can't be soothed easily
  • Wide-eyed, "second wind" — looks not tired but is
  • Sudden burst of energy right before they were supposed to sleep
  • Takes 30+ minutes to fall asleep instead of 10

Signs Wake Window Is Too Short (Undertired)

  • Happily playing in crib, not falling asleep
  • Long settling time (45+ minutes)
  • Short nap (under 30 min) — woke up because they weren't tired enough

Important Caveats

Every baby is different. Some are "low sleep need" (less total sleep) and some "high sleep need." The ranges below are population averages, not commandments. Adjust by 15-30 minutes based on your actual baby's signs.

Wake windows are not a magic formula. They're a starting point. If your baby has been sleeping fine on different timings, don't change.