Newborn feeding schedule (From birth to 2 weeks): Amounts & food chart

When you bring your new baby home, there are lots of changes to adjust to, and it can be a bit overwhelming as you learn new routines and set up schedules. One important thing to know is that the feeding schedule for a newborn can change quite a bit and will likely take some time to settle into a consistent pattern — that's normal!

How you choose to feed your baby, whether it's through nursing or using formula, will influence the feeding schedule. Additionally, every baby has their own unique needs. It's recommended that you only give your baby breastmilk or formula during this time and avoid offering any other foods or drinks.

In this article, we'll walk you through typical newborn eating schedules, give you tips for ensuring your baby is getting the nutrients they need, and answer frequently asked questions about newborn feeding by week.

Newborn to 2 weeks old baby sample feeding schedule

In the first two weeks, it's common for babies to engage in cluster feeding, which means they might nurse frequently and take in small amounts of milk each time. This can even happen during the night, with feedings occurring every two hours. During the first 2 weeks, it's recommended to feed on demand whenever your baby is showing signs they are hungry. During this time, it's also important to monitor how long your baby is going between feeds. If they haven't woken up by 3 hours, it's important to wake them up and try to feed them. This will ensure they are gaining weight adequately. (Many physicians look for babies to be back to birth weight by the end of 2 weeks.) For breastfeeding families, this will also ensure consistency to help increase and manage milk supply.

Remember, every baby is different, and it's normal for the feeding schedule to change frequently during this early stage. With time, you'll become more familiar with your baby's needs and develop a routine that works best for both of you.

The recommended feeding schedule for a newborn is usually every 2 to 3 hours. That means you'll be a pro at feeding your little bundle of joy about 8 to 12 times a day. Your baby won’t figure out this whole "sleeping through the night" thing until they’re older, so those nighttime feedings are totally on the menu. You can think of it as your little one's way of saying, "Hey, I need some midnight snacks too!"

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) [], cluster feeds and frequent feedings can actually boost the health of your infant. This type of feeding is often associated with growth spurts in infants. When your baby engages in cluster feeding, they tend to consume larger quantities of milk and do so more frequently, especially during the evening hours.

How much to feed from birth to 2 weeks old: feeding chart

The AAP recommends [] feeding your newborn baby on demand. This means feeding your baby when you see signs of hunger: (1) Fists moving to mouth (2) Head turning to look for the breast (3) Becoming more alert and active (4) Sucking on hands or lip smacking (5) Opening and closing mouth.

The majority of newborns feed every 2 to 3 hours, amounting to a total of 8 - 12 feedings within a 24-hour period. Initially, infants might consume as little as half an ounce per feeding (both formula [] and breastfed infants) during the first day or two after birth.

However, after this initial period, they typically consume 1 to 2 ounces of milk at each feeding (both formula and breastfed infants). By the time they reach 2 weeks of age [], the quantity usually increases to 2 to 3 ounces per feeding.

Keep in mind that newborn feeding amounts may be hard to gauge, especially for babies who nurse at the breast. If you have concerns about your newborn's eating schedule or worry that they're not consuming enough, check in with their pediatrician or a lactation consult.

Typical breastfeeding patterns

Typical bottle-feeding patterns

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Breastfeeding 

Breastfeed your newborn to 2 week old baby when they show signs of hunger — typically 8 - 12 times during a 24 hour period. Note that breastfed babies typically need smaller, more frequent feedings than their formula-fed counterparts.

Formula feeding

As a general guideline, it is recommended that your baby consumes approximately 2½ ounces (75 mL) of infant formula per pound (453 g) of body weight on an average day. This may look like 1.5 oz to 3 oz for each feeding, 8 feeds per 24 hr period.

Other liquids

Infants in this age range should not have other liquids or any foods.

6 tips for feeding your newborn to 2 weeks old baby

Let's talk about your baby's feeding adventure and tips to keep everything running smoothly and help your baby feed.

Tip #1: Expect round-the-clock feedings

Get ready to join the "every 2 to 3-hour club." When you look at newborn feeding by week, you'll quickly see that very young babies eat frequently day and night in order to grow and thrive.

Tip #2: Breast milk supply adjusts according to demand

If you're nursing or using a pump, expressing milk often helps build your milk supply. If there are concerns with milk supply, it may be helpful to pump after each feed to help boost milk production. On the other hand, watch for engorgement at this stage — pumping may exacerbate engorgement and can lead to mastitis and breast abscess. This can be a tricky balance. If in doubt, reach out to a lactation consultant for guidance (and reassurance!).

Tip #3: Brace yourself for some cluster feeding action

Your little bundle of joy might surprise you with a series of shorter feeds, one after another. Don't panic, it's totally normal! Think of it as a baby buffet, where they're getting all the goodies they need to grow and thrive.

Tip #4: Stay hydrated

Make sure to keep your own water within reach when you sit down for a feeding session. And if you are breastfeeding, don't forget to stay hydrated like a pro athlete. Guzzle that water to keep that breast milk flowing.

Tip #5: Feed yourself 

Let's not forget about the superhero in this story — you! You need all the energy and health you can get to keep up with your amazing caregiving skills. So, chow down on frequent meals and choose healthy foods whenever possible.

Keep snacks nearby that you can eat with one hand: granola bars, string cheese, precut fruit, and veggies.

Tip #6: Count wet diapers

It’s normal to worry about whether your baby is getting enough to eat. Typically, once your baby reaches the age of five days and older, you should observe a higher frequency of wet diapers, usually totaling six or more within a 24-hour period. Check with your medical provider if you’re seeing fewer wet diapers or have concerns that your baby isn’t getting enough to eat.

Night feeding from birth to 2 weeks old

Night feeding is normal and your little one will wake up frequently during the night in these initial weeks. Infants and babies will wake to feed often during the first few months, and at 2 weeks old will require regular feeds each night to keep their energy levels up and hydrated.

Babies shouldn’t drink water or any other hydration sources at this age so it is key to feed frequently to avoid hunger, dehydration, and encourage comfortable sleep. At this age, breastmilk and formula contain all the hydration your baby needs.

Takeaway: feeding from birth to 2 weeks old

• It's important to understand your newborn's feeding routine. From birth up to 2 weeks old, babies will eat frequently, gradually increasing their intake. Although feeding patterns will change as they grow, during this early stage, most babies need breastmilk or formula every 2 to 3 hours, even at night.

• Some newborns may engage in cluster feeding, which means they have shorter and more frequent feedings. This is completely normal and can actually help stimulate your milk supply if you're breastfeeding. Formula-fed babies will also require frequent feedings, including during the nighttime.

• If you experience any discomfort while breastfeeding, it's essential to reach out to your medical provider or a lactation consultant for guidance and support.

• Remember, every baby is unique and their feeding needs may vary. The key is to provide nourishment regularly to ensure they stay hydrated, satisfied, and growing healthily. You're doing an amazing job, and with time, you'll become more familiar with your baby's feeding patterns.