3 Week Old Baby: Feeding, Care, Sleep & What to Expect

It’s official: you have a 3 week old baby!

Your body is probably still feeling a bit spent, but hey, mama, we made it.

Oh, and it seems you have a new houseguest for the next couple of decades.

You’re officially a mama, so perhaps you’re getting accustomed to your new life with a newborn, or maybe things are still feeling very strange.

Whatever the case, these past three weeks have probably felt oh-so surreal.

But it’s all so worth it for your adorable 3 week old baby — or, rather, your little bundle of (at times gassy) joy.

There’s so much more coming your way, but you already know this.

So in anticipation and preparation for what’s to come, we’ve got you!

It’s an exhausting, beautiful, occasionally confusing journey, but you’re here, and you’re doing great!

Let’s explore what week three holds for you and your tiny sidekick.

📝 In this article:

What to do with a 3 week old baby

You’ve just nailed down the basics — feeding, diapering, burping, repeat — but now your little buddy’s having slightly longer wake windows and maybe even looking at you like, “Hey, what’s next?”.

So let’s talk about a few activities for a 3-week-old that will be fun for both of you and might even give you a brief moment of “Did I just make them smile?”. 🥹

• All about that face: For babies, nothing’s more fascinating than your face. So when they’re awake, hold them close (about 8-12 inches away) and let them take in all your glorious features. Talk to them, make goofy faces, try a few “oohs” and “aahs,” and see if they respond. Your expressions help them learn about emotions, even if it doesn’t seem like it right now. [1]
• Keep it black and white: At this age, their eyesight is still developing, so the high contrast is perfect for stimulating their little brains without overwhelming them. Pro tip: you can DIY by drawing bold stripes or shapes on plain paper—anything that’ll keep them intrigued for a few precious minutes.
• Get chatting: They may not be able to talk back yet, but narrating your day or having mini “conversations” is actually a powerful way to bond. Babies love the sound of their parents’ voice, and all those little gurgles and coos they make are their early attempts at communicating. Try a bit of back-and-forth with sounds or just tell them what you’re up to. (“Mom’s just having a little coffee, okay, a lot of coffee.”) It’s fun for them and oddly therapeutic for you.
• Go for a wander: When all else fails, consider taking your babe on a walk. Babies love motion, and the great outdoors can be surprisingly calming for them (and you!). Even at three weeks, the change of scenery can help both of you reset. Plus, if you’re lucky, the gentle rhythm of the stroller might even lead to a nap. And hey, bonus: the fresh air might even help you feel more human after all those night shifts.

How much tummy time for a 3 week old?

At this stage, tummy time can last just a few minutes a couple of times a day, as it helps strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles.

Make it fun by lying down in front of them, talking, and cheering them on.

Experts recommend starting tummy time as early as possible, but always with supervision. [2,3]

➡️ Not sure where to start? Check out our Complete Guide to Tummy Time

What is a 3-week-old baby’s routine?

Right now, “routine” may feel more like a series of unpredictable events strung together by snacks, naps, and, let’s be real, a good amount of baby squeaks and cries.

But there is a bit of structure emerging, even if it feels more freestyle than predictable schedule.

So, what does a typical 3-week-old baby schedule look like?

• Morning: Wake up, eat, a quick diaper change, and then a little bit of cuddling or cooing before another nap.
• Mid-morning to early afternoon: Another feed, another nap, and maybe some tummy time (for a whopping few minutes).
• Afternoon to evening: Feed, short awake time (sometimes they’ll just gaze lovingly at the ceiling), and another snooze.
• Evening wind-down: Feeding, a little play or cuddle, and — fingers crossed — a longer sleep stretch.

How do I bond with my 3 week old baby?

Bonding with your tiny three-week-old can feel like a mystery.

You’re giving your all, from endless snuggles to late-night feedings, but with them staring off into the middle distance or nodding off mid-gaze, you might wonder, Are they even noticing all this love?

Rest assured: they’re noticing — and bonding with you in their own adorable way. 🥰

Simple moments — like leaning in close so they can study your face (their favourite thing to do right now!) — are perfect for bonding.

If you’re up for it, sing a lullaby or hold them skin-to-skin — simple touches and sounds remind them that they’re safe and adored.

The truth is, every feed, every cuddle, and every bit of “you time” is building that bond.

It doesn’t have to be big or fancy; your presence alone is more than enough to make them feel loved.

How do I know if my 3 week old is happy?

With a three-week-old, it can feel like reading the expressions of a tiny, very mysterious roommate.

Sure, they’re not exactly flashing smiles or giving you thumbs-up signs yet, but there are little hints that your baby is content, even if they’re subtle.

If they’re calm, gazing around, and kicking those legs during awake times, that’s baby talk for “I’m good!”

A relaxed “milk drunk” look after feeding is another classic cue.

And remember, if they’re eating, sleeping, and cuddling well, they’re likely feeling safe, cozy, and content — even if they can’t quite show it with a grin yet.

How many times should a 3 week old baby poop a day?

Generally, a breastfed baby can poop after every feeding (yes, that could mean several times a day) or just once every few days — it’s all normal.

Formula-fed babies tend to go about once or twice daily, but this can vary, too.

The key?

As long as baby seems comfortable and their poop is soft, they’re likely right on track.

And it can come in pretty much all the colors of the rainbow, too!

If you see green poop, don’t panic.

Green can be a totally normal shade for a three-week-old baby, often influenced by what they’re eating or even how quickly milk passes through.

While the shade may range from mustard yellow to forest green, if you’re ever unsure or if baby seems uncomfortable, give your pediatrician a call for peace of mind.

💩 It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary: Baby Poop: Your Expert Guide

How much should my 3 week old baby sleep?

At this stage, they’re practically professional nappers, clocking in around 16 to 18 hours a day. [4]

This will happen in bursts (often when you least expect it), with plenty of mini snoozes scattered between those adorable wide-eyed moments.

If you spot a few spit bubbles while they sleep, don’t worry — it’s pretty common.

Babies can be surprisingly bubbly, especially if they’re relaxed or have a little milk residue from feeding.

As long as they’re snoozing soundly, the bubbles are just part of their charm.

And if you’re swaddling your babe for sleep, it’s a good idea to check in with your pediatrician on safe sleep practices and SIDS guidelines. [5,6]

😴 Want the lowdown on baby snoozing? How Much Do Newborns Sleep? Your Rough Guide

Can a 3 week old baby sleep on their stomach?

No — it’s safest to stick with placing baby on their back for sleep.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and just about every pediatrician out there will agree — back is best for reducing the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).[7]

While your babe may seem extra cozy tummy-down (or maybe you’ve spotted them napping on their belly for those brief, supervised tummy time sessions), it’s best to save that position for playtime only.

When it comes to sleep, a flat, firm mattress, no fluffy stuff, and back-sleeping are the golden rules for a safe snooze.

What time is bedtime for a 3 week old baby?

A three-week-old baby’s sleep schedule is all about following their natural rhythms rather than any set clock.

They’re still adjusting to life on the outside, and the difference between day and night?

That’s more of a suggestion to them right now.

Typically, your babe will sleep in multiple short stretches, often snoozing for 2–4 hours at a time, whether it’s noon or midnight.

So rather than aiming for a strict bedtime, go with the flow: dim the lights, keep things calm and quiet in the evening, and let baby’s cues guide you.

You’ll start to see patterns in their sleep schedule over time, but for now, bedtime is whenever they say it is — and yes, that might change night by night.

Can I let my 3 week old sleep through the night?

If your three-week-old is giving you hints of longer snoozes, it’s only natural to wonder if you can let them roll with it.

Here’s the thing: while it sounds dreamy, most newborns still need to wake for feeds every few hours to fuel that rapid growth.

At three weeks, they’re typically still in the eat-sleep-repeat cycle every 2–4 hours, day and night.

If your babe is gaining weight well and your pediatrician gives the thumbs up, you might get a slightly longer stretch here and there.

But be prepared — most babies at this age are still in team night feed.

As tempting as it is to let them snooze (and honestly, who could blame you!), they may still need those nighttime meals for a few more weeks.

What’s the 3 week sleep regression?

If you’ve got a three-week-old baby fighting sleep, getting extra fussy, or refusing to sleep anywhere but your arms, it’s only natural to wonder if they’re going through a 3 week sleep regression.

Well, some experts say that these ‘regressions’ are actually progressions — signs of baby learning something new or going through a growth spurt.

They’re also becoming a touch more aware of the world, which, to them, is bright, noisy, and downright fascinating (and a little overwhelming).

So, if your three-week-old baby won’t sleep unless held, it’s not that they’re trying to exhaust you (promise!) — they just find comfort in being close to you, especially when the world feels so big and new.

And remember: this won’t last forever!

😵‍💫 Will they ever sleep again? Your Ultimate Baby Sleep Regression Guide

How much should a 3 week old baby eat?

Short answer: a lot!

Expect your babe to be breastfeeding around 8–12 times a day or taking in about 16–24 ounces of formula.

Basically, they’re eating machines, and yes, they’re still eating about the same as they did at two weeks — growth spurt or not, they like to keep things consistent.

If you’re noticing a bit of a “baby belly” situation (a perfectly normal bloated 3-week-old belly after feeds), don’t worry.

Your baby’s stomach size is still quite small, ranging from the size of a walnut to the size of a golf ball, so they’re taking in small meals frequently.

That full little belly can look a bit round and tight right after a feed — it’s totally normal as they adjust to digesting all that milk.

Just keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort, like fussiness that doesn’t go away after burping or if their belly feels especially hard.

A good post-feed burp (or two) can often help ease any trapped air bubbles.

One thing to be mindful of for your 3 week old babe is to look at getting them their vitamin D — either in their formula or through a supplement, if you’re breastfeeding.

Ask your pediatrician which supplements are best for your babe and if they need these additional supplements. [8]

🍼 Time for more milk? Newborn Baby Feeding Schedule: How Often is Enough?

How long between feeds for a 3 week old?

When it comes to feeding a three-week-old, timing is… whatever baby decides it should be!

On average, you’ll likely find yourself feeding every 2 to 3 hours, but your baby might have their own take on that.

Some days it may feel like they’re a frequent flyer, clustering those feeds close together, while other times, they’ll surprise you with a slightly longer stretch (hello, shower break!).

At this age, they’re still building up their tiny tummies, so frequent, small feeds are the name of the game.

And if they’re suddenly hungry just an hour after a big meal?

Totally normal.

Growth spurts, random snack attacks, or just the need for comfort all play a role in their unpredictable schedule.

For now, just follow their cues, even if it sometimes feels like you’re on call 24/7.

It’s all part of the newborn feeding rhythm, and you’re handling it beautifully — even when it means feeling like you’re the 2 am snack bar.

Should I wake my 3 week old baby to feed?

At three weeks old, it depends on your babe’s weight gain and overall health.

If your baby is gaining weight steadily and your pediatrician is happy with their progress, it’s usually okay to let them snooze a little longer at night (and grab a precious extra hour for yourself, too!).

But if your baby is still working on hitting those weight goals, gentle wake-ups for feeding are usually recommended.

Trust your instincts and check with your pediatrician if you’re unsure.

How do I know if my 3 week old baby is cluster feeding?

Cluster feeding is when your baby decides that one meal isn’t enough and insists on a full buffet session, with feeds happening almost back-to-back — and it’s totally normal.

This usually shows up around growth spurts (three weeks is prime time), where your baby is literally fueling up for a big developmental leap.

You’ll know it’s cluster feeding if their hunger cues — rooting, fussing, those adorable lip-smacks — seem to be on repeat every hour or so, especially in the evenings.

But don’t worry; it’s a phase that helps boost their intake and, for breastfeeding mums, your milk supply.

For formula-fed babies, feel free to offer them those extra ounces, as long as they seem content and not overly full.

How do I know if my 3 week old is full?

They might not have words yet, but babies have many ways of telling you they’re done with their meal.

If they start turning their head away, pushing the bottle or breast away with those surprisingly strong little hands, or giving you the “milk drunk” look (think relaxed, half-closed eyes and a floppy little body), you’ve probably got yourself a full baby.

Another telltale sign? The stop-and-stare.

If your baby pauses mid-feed and starts gazing off into the distance, they’re likely finished and just casually hanging out (or planning their next snack break).

And if they start dozing off while feeding, that’s usually your cue that they’re full and content — nothing says “satisfied” like a baby snoozing in the middle of a meal.

Finally, the ultimate sign: no more rooting or frantic sucking.

If they’re calm and chilled, they’re officially satisfied.

What should a 3-week-old baby be doing?

At three weeks old, your babe is already hitting some adorable, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it milestones.

They’re becoming more alert, which means they might actually be awake long enough for you to enjoy their precious (and slightly puzzled) stares!

They’re noticing sounds, faces, and maybe even recognising that you’re the one who’s always there with food and cuddles — very important details.

Physically, your baby’s got a bit more strength, and you might catch them lifting their head for a second during tummy time, or even attempting a wobbly side-to-side turn, building those neck muscles so one day they can proudly hold their head up and look around like a pro.

You can help them along by lying down beside them and chatting away — babies love trying to spot your face and will often turn their head towards you to “listen”.

And about that intense baby gaze they’re giving you?

It’s how they’re starting to learn.

Your baby’s brain is working hard, taking in all those sights and sounds, so don’t be surprised if they seem captivated by your every move.

While they’re not ready to flash a real smile yet, they’re definitely into it when you smile, so feel free to throw in some cheesy grins — they’ll get the hang of it soon!

Is there a growth spurt at 3 weeks?

Around three weeks, many babies hit a growth spurt, and they mean business.

This stage can look like a serious uptick in hunger — think of it as baby’s way of fueling up for a major growth leap.

They might also want to be held more often (those tiny muscles are working hard!) or go from zero to hangry faster than ever.

Don’t worry; it’s not your regular feeding schedule thrown out the window — it’s just a phase.

What to expect at 3 weeks postpartum

At three weeks postpartum, you’re still in the trenches of recovery, learning, and lots of adjusting.

Your body is healing, your emotions might feel like they’re on a rollercoaster, and your babe may be throwing in extra fussiness just to keep things interesting.

It’s all totally normal, even if it feels a bit intense.

Physically, you’re still recovering from birth, so it’s essential to go easy on yourself.

If you’re feeling drained, sore, or just plain exhausted (and let’s be real, you probably are), now is the perfect time to lean on loved ones.

Ask your partner, friend, or family member to take over for a stretch — whether it’s so you can soak in the tub without rushing or go for a stroll solo or with a podcast that makes you feel like you’re back in the real world.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the extra baby fussiness right now, know that it’s perfectly okay to feel that way.

Three weeks in, your babe might be crying more, feeding constantly, or demanding every ounce of your attention.

It’s not a reflection of you; it’s just part of their adjustment to the world outside the womb.

❤️ You matter, too: Your Ultimate Postpartum Recovery Guide

How to increase milk supply at 3 weeks postpartum

There are a few things that can get your milk supply flowing again, so give these a try — but give yourself some space too, mama:

• Nurse or pump frequently: The more often you feed or pump, the more your body gets the “we need more milk!” message. Try nursing every 2-3 hours if possible.
• Stay hydrated and nourished: Milk production is hard work, so keep water nearby and aim for nutritious snacks and meals.
• Take little moments to relax: Stress can impact supply, so grab tiny moments to breathe. A warm shower, calming music, or even a few deep breaths while you pump can help.
• Try galactagogue foods: Foods like oats, fenugreek, and brewer’s yeast are known to support milk supply. Toss some oats into a smoothie, or try a lactation cookie — just check with your doctor before adding any supplements.
• Skin-to-skin cuddles: Snuggling with baby helps release oxytocin, which can stimulate milk production. Plus, you get bonus bonding time — win-win!

Give yourself some grace — studies show that the first 2-6 weeks can be the hardest when it comes to breastfeeding. [9]

You’re doing great.

Why am I still bleeding at 3 weeks postpartum?

Postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, is your body’s way of clearing out everything it needed to support pregnancy.

For most new moms, this bleeding can last up to 4-6 weeks, tapering off gradually from bright red to pink, brownish, and then a light yellow or white. [10]

At three weeks, it’s common to still have some bleeding, especially if you’ve been more active lately (lifting, walking, or anything that feels like too much).

Sometimes, even small activities can cause a slight increase in bleeding — it’s just your body reminding you it’s still healing, so take it easy when you can.

If the bleeding gets heavier, or you notice large clots or an unpleasant smell, that’s your cue to check in with your healthcare provider, just to rule out any complications.

So, while it’s not exactly glamorous, light bleeding is all part of the recovery process.

Be kind to yourself, keep the comfy pads stocked, and remember: you’re healing, and you’re doing beautifully!

3 week old baby: your questions

Now for everything else — some of the less common questions that still get asked by our Peanut mamas.

Remember: there’s no such thing as a silly question, and if you’re thinking it, someone else has already been there.

Is week 3 the hardest with a newborn?

Week 3 can definitely feel like a doozy — it’s when the adrenaline’s worn off, and the sleep deprivation starts to get real.

You’re deep in the land of constant feeds, unpredictable cries, and that “Wait, is this normal?” phase.

But hang in there; you’re not alone, and every tough day means you’re one step closer to finding your groove (promise!).

What does a 3 week old baby see?

At three weeks, your baby can see about 8-12 inches in front of them — just far enough to focus on your face when you’re up close. [11]

They may not catch all the details yet, but they’re starting to recognize you as their favourite (and most important) person.

What do i do if my 3 week old baby has red skin?

If your three-week-old has red skin, don’t panic — newborns often have sensitive skin that reacts to everything from temperature changes to snug onesies.

Gently cleanse the area with warm water and skip any lotions or creams unless recommended by your pediatrician.

And remember, baby skin can be extra sensitive, so a little redness is usually nothing to worry about — but if it’s persistent or they seem uncomfortable, give your doctor a quick call for peace of mind.

Can I put lotion on my 3 week old baby?

Yes, you can use lotion on your three-week-old, but keep it simple and gentle — look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic baby lotions made for sensitive skin.

Newborns’ skin is delicate and often moisturizes itself, so a little goes a long way.

If they’re extra dry or flaky, a dab of lotion can help, but when in doubt, your pediatrician can always guide you to the best option!

My 3 week old baby has puffy eyes, is that normal?

Puffy eyes in a three-week-old? Totally common!

Newborns can have a bit of swelling around the eyes and sometimes even a little eye discharge due to their tear ducts still developing.

Gently wipe away any discharge with warm water on a soft cloth, and rest assured that puffy eyes are often just part of their normal newborn phase — always check with your pediatrician if it seems excessive or if you’re worried, though!

Is it normal for my 3 week old baby to sound congested?

Yes, it’s normal for a three-week-old to sound a bit congested — tiny nasal passages can make the littlest stuffiness sound dramatic!

A 3-week-old baby with a stuffy nose or mild coughing isn’t necessarily sick; often, it’s just leftover mucus from birth or dryness from indoor air.

If the congestion seems severe or baby is struggling to breathe comfortably, check in with your pediatrician for extra peace of mind.

Why is my baby so fussy all of a sudden at 3 weeks?

Around this stage, they may feel more uncomfortable due to growth spurts, digestion adjustments, or simply becoming more aware of the world (which can be a lot to process!).

Hang in there; extra snuggles, a cozy swaddle, and the soothing sound of your voice can make all the difference as they navigate this bumpy stage.

Can I travel with a 3 week old baby by car?

Yes, you can travel with a three-week-old by car — just make sure they’re safely secured in a rear-facing car seat and take frequent breaks.

Babies this young need time out of the car seat every hour or so, so plan for stops where you can stretch, feed, and give baby a break from their cozy (but snug) setup.

What do I do if my 3 week old baby fell off the couch?

First off, take a deep breath — you’re not a bad parent; these things happen more often than you’d think.

Check baby for any visible bumps, bruising, or changes in behavior, and if anything seems off (or if you just need peace of mind), give your pediatrician a quick call.

Babies are surprisingly resilient, so chances are, they’re fine, but it’s always worth double-checking to be sure.

Does a 3 week old know its mother?

Yes, your three-week-old absolutely knows their mama!

They might not recognize you in a lineup just yet, but they know your voice, your scent, and the way you hold them, which all make them feel safe and secure.

So, even if they can’t say it, you’re already their favourite person. 🥹

And there you have it — three weeks in, and look at you, tackling each new baby stage like a pro (even if it doesn’t feel like it some days)!

Parenting a three-week-old may be a rollercoaster of emotions, discoveries, and occasional exhaustion, but remember, you’re not alone on this ride.

You’re building an incredible connection with your babe, and every moment is part of your journey together.

So, take a deep breath, give yourself credit, and keep going — you’ve got this, and you’re doing great, mama. 🫶

👉 Read next: 4 Week Old Baby: What to Expect