As a new parent, you’ve probably heard a lot of conflicting advice about how to get your baby to sleep longer stretches at night. Well-meaning friends, relatives, and even pediatricians (mine included) may suggest offering a bottle of formula at bedtime to help your baby sleep better. But does this really work? Let’s take a look at the evidence.
The Claim: Formula-Fed Babies Sleep Better
Many parents hear that formula-fed babies sleep better because formula is thought to be more filling and takes longer to digest than breast milk. Since formula takes longer to digest, it makes sense to assume that formula-fed babies will stay full for longer and, therefore, sleep more soundly. Sounds great, right? While this idea seems logical on the surface, it’s not that simple.
Understanding Baby Sleep Cycles
All babies - whether breastfed or formula-fed - have shorter sleep cycles than adults. Newborns, in particular, wake frequently throughout the night—not just because they’re hungry but because they’re going through normal developmental processes. This is a healthy, natural part of babyhood and has very little to do with feeding choices.
There’s a lot of unnatural pressure for parents to get their babies to "sleep through the night." Babies who do are often dubbed “good babies.” In reality, frequent night waking is biologically normal and even beneficial—it helps protect against SIDS, supports healthy weight gain, and contributes to an abundant breastmilk supply.
Night waking is not a parenting failure; it’s simply part of your baby’s natural development.
What the Research Says
Studies on whether formula-fed babies sleep better are mixed. Some research suggests that formula-fed babies might sleep slightly longer stretches at night during the first few months. However, these differences tend to be minimal and often disappear as babies grow older.
When we look closely at the research, we actually see that moms who breastfeed get more sleep than those who bottle feed. Although breastfed babies may wake more frequently, breastfeeding at night is typically quicker and easier than bottle feeding. There is nothing to heat up, no bottles to wash, and babies can be fed quickly before they become too upset. Also, breastmilk contains sleep-inducing hormones like melatonin that help babies get back to sleep quickly.
Other Factors Affecting Baby Sleep
Many factors influence a baby’s sleep beyond just how they’re fed. A baby’s temperament, sleep environment, and daily routine all play key roles. Consistent bedtime routines, a calm atmosphere, and ensuring your baby is comfortable can encourage better sleep, whether they’re breastfed or formula-fed.
What About One Bottle Before Bed?
Offering one bottle of formula before bed may seem like a simple solution to help your baby sleep longer, but it can actually set off a chain of events that affects breastfeeding success. When you skip a feeding session at the breast, your body is given the signal that you don't need that milk, which will slowly lead to a decrease in supply over time. It’s a bit of a slippery slope—one missed feeding turns into another, and soon, your milk supply may not be keeping up with your baby's needs.
Plus, breastfeeding before bed is a great way to bond and settle your baby for the night. Your baby gets all that sleep-inducing melatonin, and you both get a lovely oxytocin hit.
Supporting Your Baby’s Sleep Naturally
Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula-feed, there are ways to support your baby’s sleep naturally:
Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine: A calming routine before bed, such as a warm bath, gentle rocking, or soft music, can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
Focus on Wake Time vs Sleep Time: It is often easier to set consistent wake times than sleep times. Fill your baby's wakeful periods with age-appropriate stimulation and activities, and when bedtime comes around, they'll be ready to sleep.
Ensure a Comfortable Sleep Environment: A dark, quiet room with a comfortable temperature can help your baby sleep more soundly.
Respond to Your Baby’s Needs: Tuning into your baby’s cues and providing comfort when they wake can help them feel secure, settle quickly, and may lead to better sleep over time.
This book was a lifesaver for me as a new mom. I often recommend it to my families.
Should You Choose Formula for Better Sleep?
If you’re considering switching to formula in the hopes of getting more sleep, weigh this decision carefully. Breastfeeding offers many health benefits for you and your baby, including immune support and bonding. If breastfeeding is going well and you enjoy it, there’s no need to switch solely for the promise of better sleep, especially since the evidence doesn’t strongly support this claim.
All new parents struggle with sleep - this doesn't mean you are a bad parent or that something is wrong with your baby. Frequent night waking is biologically normal and actually beneficial—it helps protect against SIDS, supports healthy weight gain, and contributes to a good breastmilk supply.
Every baby is different, and their sleep patterns will change over time. As always, the most important thing is to find what works best for you and your baby. A well-supported baby and a well-rested parent make for a happy family.
If you struggle with sleep, you may find it helpful to focus on establishing good sleep habits and seeking support rather than changing your baby’s diet. I can answer any questions you have and help you create a sleep plan that supports your feeding goals. Message me for more info, or book your session!
Expecting a little one soon? Want to know what to expect and set up good sleep habits from the start? I can help! Book a Q&A with me, where I'll answer all your questions, helping you feel more prepared for what's to come.
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