Guide · US edition · Updated 2026-10-29

Newborn Feeding and Sleep Log: What To Track and Why

In the first weeks, days blur together. A simple log answers the questions your pediatrician will ask: How often is the baby eating? How many wet and dirty diapers? How is the baby sleeping?

What to write down

Feeding

Time started
Breast (which side and how long), or bottle (how much)
Notes: spit-up, fussiness, a good latch

Diapers

Time
Wet or dirty (or both)

Sleep

When the baby fell asleep and woke up
Where (bassinet, crib)

Keep it simple

One page per day, or one line per event
Use the same clock and the same format
Keep it where night feeds happen, with a pen
Share it with your partner so you don't both track the same thing

Why it helps

Newborns typically feed often, around 8 to 12 times in 24 hours in the early weeks. A log shows patterns you won't remember.
Diaper counts help your pediatrician judge whether the baby is getting enough.
It shows sleep patterns as they change.

Safe sleep reminders (AAP)

Baby sleeps on their back, on a firm, flat surface
In their own crib or bassinet, in your room
No pillows, blankets, bumpers or soft toys in the sleep space

When to stop

Many parents stop detailed logs once feeding is going well and the pediatrician is happy with weight gain. You can keep a lighter version for sleep.

Not medical advice. Ask your pediatrician what to track and when to call.

The New Baby Admin Planner includes printable feeding, sleep and diaper logs and a spreadsheet version.

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