Newborn Feeding Schedule Week by Week: Baby Feeding Chart & What to Expect

LUMO
2026-03-10T15:03:52-04:00

A newborn feeding schedule is one of the first routines new parents try to understand. But babies grow quickly and so do their feeding needs. Knowing how often newborns eat, how much they typically take, and what a healthy feeding pattern for a newborn looks like can help make the early weeks feel much more manageable.

Whether you're breastfeeding, pumping, or formula feeding, this guide includes a baby feeding chart, a newborn feeding schedule by age, and answers common feeding questions so you can confidently support your baby's growth. One of the most important things you can do is listen and learn your little one’s hunger cues as much as possible, don’t worry if you can’t but this will help.

Baby Feeding Chart: Week by Week Guide

Below is an easy reference infant feeding chart describing typical feeding frequency and volume during the first 8 weeks of life. Every baby is different, so treat this chart as a guide rather than a strict rule. Always consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about feeding or growth.

Newborn Feeding Guide (First 8 Weeks)

Baby Age | Feeding Frequency | Breastfeeding Notes | Bottle Feeding Notes
Week 1 | Every 1–3 hours | 8–12 feeds/day; small amounts of colostrum | 1–2 oz / 30–60 ml per feed
Week 2 | Every 1–3 hours | Feed on demand to establish supply | 1.5–2.5 oz / 45–75 ml per feed
Weeks 3–4 | Every 2–3 hours | Growth spurts may cause cluster feeding | 2–3 oz / 60–90 ml per feed
Weeks 5–6 | Every 2–4 hours | More predictable feeding patterns emerge | 3–4 oz / 90–120 ml per feed
Weeks 7–8 | Every 2–4 hours | Some longer nighttime stretches begin | 3–4 oz / 90–120 ml per feed, 6–8 feeds/day

Newborn Feeding Schedule by Age

Babies grow rapidly in the first eight weeks, and their hunger patterns change just as quickly. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect at each stage.

Weeks 1–2: The First Days

In the first days, your newborn’s stomach is tiny, about the size of a cherry. This means frequent feedings are essential.

Breastfeeding

Feed 8–12 times in 24 hours

Each feed may last 20–45 minutes

Frequent feeding boosts milk production

Bottle feeding

Offer 1-2 ounces 30/60ml per feed

Increase gradually based on hunger cues

Many newborns seem constantly hungry during this transitional period. This is completely normal.

Weeks 3–4: Early Growth Spurts

Around week three, babies often enter their first major growth spurt, affecting their feeding pattern.

Breastfeeding

Feeds every 2–3 hours

Expect more cluster feeding

Bottle feeding

Offer 2-3 ounces 60-90ml per feed

Your baby may feed more frequently over short spurts, this helps support both growth and milk supply.

Weeks 5–8: More Predictable Feeding Patterns

By the second month, many babies begin to develop a more consistent infant feeding schedule.

Breastfeeding

Most feed every 2–4 hours

Some babies begin to stretch night feeds

Bottle feeding

Babies typically take 3–4 ounces (90–120 ml) per feed

Total of 6–8 feeds per day

How Often Do Newborns Eat? Recognizing Hunger Cues

Even with a schedule, babies communicate their hunger through body language. Knowing these cues helps you feed on demand while maintaining a healthy routine.

Common hunger cues include:

Rooting: turning toward touch and opening their mouth

Hands to mouth

Lip smacking or sucking motions

Fussiness (a later cue)

Tips for Breastfeeding a Newborn

A successful breastfeeding journey takes practice and patience. These tips can help:

Create a comfortable feeding setup: A supportive nursing pillow reduces strain.

Feed on demand: Helps regulate supply and supports baby led feeding.

Stay hydrated & nourished: Producing milk requires extra calories and fluids.

Practice skin-to-skin contact: Supports bonding and feeding instincts.

Seek help early: A lactation consultant can assist with latch and positioning.

Newborn Feeding FAQs

How do I know if my baby has had enough to eat?

A well fed newborn will:

Release the breast or stop sucking

Appear calm or sleepy

Produce 6–8 wet diapers per day by week two

Can I overfeed my baby?

Breastfed babies rarely overfeed, as they naturally regulate intake. Bottle fed babies may overfeed if encouraged to finish bottles. Signs of fullness include:

Head turning away

Pushing the nipple out

Fussing during feeding

What is cluster feeding?

Cluster feeding refers to periods where a baby feeds frequently in short bursts. It’s common during growth spurts (typically around weeks 3 and 6) and helps boost milk supply.

How do I know if my baby isn’t getting enough?

Warning signs include:

Fewer than 6 wet diapers daily

Persistent fussiness

Lethargy

Slow weight gain

Always consult your pediatrician if concerned.

When should I switch to bottle feeding?

There’s no right or set time and no need to make the switch if breastfeeding is going well. Many parents switch due to low supply, returning to work, or simply needing rest. Do what feels right for you and your baby’s needs.

Building a Feeding Rhythm That Works for Your Family

Establishing a newborn feeding schedule takes time, flexibility, and patience. Your baby’s cues, growth spurts, and developmental needs will guide you more accurately than the clock. With this baby feeding chart and week by week guidance, you’ll feel more confident supporting your newborn’s healthy feeding journey.