Not many things are as relieving to new Singaporean parents as a sleeping baby, especially after a long day of navigating the heat or a busy commute. What happens, though, when your baby starts sleeping way beyond their normal sleeping hours? Some mummies might welcome the extra rest, whereas others fear it might indicate an underlying problem. While newborns require a significant amount of rest during their first few months, a newborn baby sleeping more than usual may occasionally be a red flag that requires action.
SG Mummy Tip: In Singapore’s humid climate, we often keep the air-con running. A room that is too chilly (below 22°C) can sometimes make a baby extra drowsy. Ensure your little one is dressed in a suitable sleepsuit or swaddle to keep their body temperature regulated.
How Much Sleep Do Newborns Need?
Babies require extremely different amounts of sleep compared to older children and adults. In the context of a typical Singaporean household routine:
- Newborns (0-3 months): 14 - 17 hours of sleep per day.
- Infants (4-11 months): 12 - 15 hours of sleep a day.
- Toddlers (1-2 year olds): 11 - 14 hours sleep.
Keep in mind that newborn sleep is rarely continuous. Usually, they sleep in small intervals of 2-4 hours; when they wake up, it is often due to the need for a feed.
Factors influencing your newborn's sleep include:
- Feeding: Breastfed infants tend to wake up more frequently to feed, whereas formula-fed infants might sleep for slightly longer periods.
- Growth and Development: During growth spurts, babies require more sleep to redirect energy toward physical development.
- Environment: In our high-density living (HDB or Condos), noise from neighbours or renovation can disrupt sleep. Conversely, a very quiet, darkened room with "white noise" helps them settle better.
Do Babies Typically Sleep Too Much?
In the majority of cases, a baby oversleeping is simply passing through a regular stage of development. Recent growth spurts, teething, or even a busy day out at the mall can lead to a longer than usual nap.
Nevertheless, excessive sleepiness can be a warning sign. If a baby sleeps too long and regularly refuses to feed, it could be due to:
- Jaundice: Common among newborns in Singapore, which may make babies lethargic.
- Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia): This can occur if there is too long a gap between feedings.
- Infection: Even slight illnesses or post-vaccination reactions can lead to drowsiness.
- Dehydration: A decreased number of wet nappies (less than 6-8 a day) is a key indicator.
What Are the Signs of a Baby Oversleeping?
When should you be concerned? Keep an eye out for these signs:
- Sleeping more than 16-18 hours consistently per day.
- Difficulty waking up, even with gentle stimulation like undressing or tickling their feet.
- Missing several consecutive feeds.
- Appearing "floppy" or unresponsive when awake.
- Falling asleep immediately during a feed without taking sufficient milk (less than 60-90ml depending on age).
How to Address Excessive Newborn Sleep
If you are worried your child is sleeping longer than normal, follow these steps:
1. Monitor Sleeping and Eating Habits
Record the times your child sleeps and eats. You can rely on a baby monitor to track movements. This data is vital if you need to consult a paediatrician at a local clinic or KKH.
2. Wake for Feedings
During the newborn stage, don't let your baby go longer than 3 hours without a feed. In Singapore, many mummies returning to work after the 16-week MOM maternity leave need to establish a strict routine. Waking them ensures they stay hydrated and maintain weight gain.
To make mid-sleep feeding easier, use the Momcozy Superfast Portable Breast Milk & Water Warmer. It ensures milk is at the perfect temperature quickly, so you can feed your sleepy baby before they drift off again.
For night feedings, the Momcozy NightPro Baby Bottle Warmer features a built-in nightlight, allowing you to prep a bottle without turning on harsh bedroom lights and fully waking the household.
With frequent feedings comes the endless chore of washing. The Momcozy DeepClean Baby Bottle Washer (D8) is a lifesaver for busy SG parents, sterilising and drying up to 8 bottles at once—perfect for maintaining hygiene standards in our tropical climate.
3. Optimise Feeding Sessions
If your baby falls asleep while nursing, gently massage their back or switch sides to keep them engaged.
4. Manage the Environment
During the day, keep the house bright with natural light to help them distinguish day from night. If they are overstimulated, a baby swing can provide a controlled environment for a structured nap.
5. Keep Milk Accessible on the Go
Whether you are at a playdate or visiting the paediatrician, use the Momcozy Portable Breast Milk Cooler. It’s essential for Singapore’s heat, keeping milk fresh and safe for hours while you are out.
Should I Wake My Baby If They're Sleeping Excessively?
Yes—especially in the first two months. While the old saying "never wake a sleeping baby" is common, nutritional needs take priority.
- Under 2 months: Should be awakened every 2-3 hours to feed.
- Older infants: Once weight gain is stable, they can sleep longer at night, but daytime feeds should remain regular.
Singapore FAQs
Is my baby sleeping more because of the Singapore heat?
Actually, heat usually makes babies fussier. However, if they are dehydrated from the heat, they may become lethargic. Ensure they are getting enough fluids and stay in a well-ventilated area.
Can I use my Corporate Insurance for sleep consultations?
Many corporate benefit packages in Singapore or private maternity insurance plans cover paediatrician visits for "feeding and growth concerns." Check with your HR or agent if you are worried about your baby's lethargy.
What if my baby sleeps through the MRT commute?
The vibrations of the MRT are natural sleep aids! Just ensure they aren't missing their scheduled feed time once you reach your destination.
Conclusion
A newborn baby sleeping more than usual is often just a sign of a healthy growth spurt. However, as an SG mummy, staying vigilant about hydration and feeding intervals is key. If your baby is difficult to wake or has fewer than 6 wet nappies, consult your doctor immediately.
