How Sleep Works How Much Sleep Is Enough?

Experts recommend that adults sleep between 7 and 9 hours a night.

Adults who sleep less than 7 hours a night may have more health issues than those who sleep 7 or more hours a night. Sleeping more than 9 hours a night is not necessarily harmful and may be helpful for young adults, people who are recovering from sleep deprivation, and people who are sick.

How much sleep children should get depends on their age. Sleep experts consider naps to be appropriate for children under age 7.

Recommended hours of sleep

Below you can find the recommended hours of sleep, including naps, for different ages.

• For newborns younger than 4 months, sleep patterns vary widely.
• Babies 4 months to 1 year old should sleep 12 to 16 hours per day.
• Children 1 to 2 years old should sleep 11 to 14 hours per day.
• Children 3 to 5 years old should sleep 10 to 13 hours per day.
• Children 6 to 12 years old should sleep 9 to 12 hours per day.
• Teens 13 to 18 years old should sleep 8 to 10 hours per day.

Talk to your doctor or your child’s doctor if you think you or your child is sleeping too much or too little.