Responsive Night Weaning: When, Why & How
First Things First: Are You Ready?
Thinking about cutting back on night feeds can feel like a huge step—and it is. This change impacts both you and your baby, and the most important part is making sure you feel ready. Night weaning shouldn’t be something you do just because you “should.” It should feel like the right choice for your baby and your family in this season. And here’s something many people don’t tell you: you don’t have to night wean to work on sleep. Babies can absolutely learn to sleep more independently while still keeping some nighttime feeds. In fact, night weaning isn’t required for your baby to begin linking sleep cycles, getting longer stretches of rest, or even sleeping through the night.
When Can Night Weaning Happen?
Night weaning can happen at different times for different babies—there’s no single “right age.” Here are some general markers:
Most babies (breast or bottle-fed) still have one to two night feeds until about 6 months old.
Many babies keep at least one night feeding until around 10 months old.
Some little ones still need a night feed up to 12 months of age, even without medical issues.
On the other hand, there are some 3-month-old babies who are already capable of going without night feeds.
Every baby is unique, and there’s no must when it comes to when they “should” stop or reduce night feedings. What matters most is tuning into your baby’s needs and your family’s readiness.
Signs You Might Be Ready
You’re feeling drained from constant night wakings and know you’d like to cut back.
After reflecting, you feel confident this change would be good for both your baby and your family.
Your baby is at an age where fewer feeds make sense, and you’re noticing signs they might be ready too.
When It Might Not Be the Right Time
You’re only considering it because of your baby’s age.
You feel pressured by advice from friends, family, or social media.
You’re hoping night weaning will “fix” sleep all on its own.
The thought of soothing your baby without feeding feels overwhelming right now.
Timing Is Everything
Because night weaning is a big transition, it helps to start when life feels calm and steady. Ask yourself: do I feel emotionally ready to guide my baby through this? Try not to begin during other big changes—like moving, starting daycare, or adjusting to a new sibling. Sometimes the choice is right, but the timing isn’t. And that’s okay. You can always pause and try again later.
Expect Some Emotions (From Both of You)
Feeding isn’t just nutrition—it’s comfort, closeness, and connection. So when you start reducing feeds, it’s natural for your baby to protest or show big feelings. That doesn’t mean you’re doing the wrong thing. Your job is to stay calm, close, and reassuring as you help them find comfort in new ways. You’re not taking away love—you’re reshaping how it looks at night. And yes, you may feel emotional too. That’s normal. Having a clear reason “why” will help you stay grounded and confident through the process.
Strengthening Daytime Feeds
Since you’re shifting calories away from night, it’s important to make daytime feeds more effective. Offer milk when your baby is calm and focused, and don’t stress about feeding before naps—it’s totally fine. Try to avoid letting long gaps stretch between feeds, and create a peaceful feeding space with dim lights and minimal distractions.
It’s a Process, Not a Quick Fix
Night weaning doesn’t mean feeds disappear instantly. For many babies, feeds are about more than hunger—they’re about reassurance too. Even toddlers with a solid diet often still need night feeds here and there. Progress is usually gradual, and that’s okay. Think of this as a gentle journey, not a sprint to the finish line. And remember—night weaning is not the only way to improve sleep. Many babies naturally extend their stretches of rest (and even sleep through the night) while keeping one or more feeds.
Final Thoughts
Responsive night weaning is about finding balance: meeting your needs while respecting your baby’s. With patience, consistency, and the right timing, you can make this shift in a way that feels loving and supportive for your whole family. And mama, please don’t let guilt creep in. Wanting more rest does not make you less attached—it makes you human. Needing breaks doesn’t mean detachment. It means you’re caring for yourself so you can keep showing up as the loving, connected mom your baby already knows you are.
With love,
Selina
Want More Support?
If you’ve read all this and still feel overwhelmed, please know you’re not alone. Every baby is unique, and sometimes all the blog posts in the world can’t replace having someone in your corner who really gets it. That’s where I come in. As a certified baby sleep coach (and a mom who’s been there too), I work with families one-on-one to create gentle, realistic strategies that actually fit your baby and your lifestyle.
You can use the Book a Call button on my site in whatever way feels best for you. If you’re just curious and want to see if we’re a good fit, you can schedule a free discovery call to get to know me and ask questions before committing. Or, if you’re feeling stuck and need help right away, you can book an SOS consult for immediate support.
Whether you’re hoping for calmer nights, smoother naps, or just more confidence in navigating this season—you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’d love to connect with you, encourage you, and help your family get the rest you deserve.
With Love,
Selina Truax
Creator and Head Sleep Coach
