What Is a Double Dream Feed and Does It Really Work?

sleep. That’s where the concept of the double dream feed comes in, a technique many parents swear by to extend nighttime sleep for both baby and parents. 

In this guide, we’ll answer all the top questions parents ask about double dream feeds, step by step. 

What Exactly Is a Double Dream Feed? 

A double dream feed is when you feed your baby twice during the night, once before you go to bed, and again a few hours later, without fully waking them up. The first feed “tops off” your baby before their longest sleep stretch, while the second one ensures they don’t wake up hungry too soon. 

It’s called a “dream feed” because your baby remains in a drowsy or light sleep state while feeding, helping them drift back to sleep easily afterward. 

When Should You Start a Double Dream Feed? 

Parents usually start a double dream feed around 6 to 12 weeks old, once their baby can sleep for longer stretches but still needs nighttime nutrition. It’s most effective when your baby weighs enough to go 4–6 hours between feeds. 

If your baby is still feeding every 2–3 hours or struggles to fall back asleep after feeds, your sleep consultant may recommend waiting a little longer. 

How Does a Double Dream Feed Work? 

The double dream feed schedule often looks like this: 

• 7:00 p.m., Regular bedtime feed 

• 10:30 p.m., First dream feed (before parents sleep) 

• 2:00 a.m., Second dream feed 

• Morning (6–7 a.m.), Baby wakes for the day 

This schedule helps your baby stay full longer, reducing the chances of middle-of-the-night wake-ups from hunger. 

Does a Double Dream Feed Help Babies Sleep Longer? 

For many families, yes. The double dream feed helps regulate nighttime hunger and encourages longer, more consistent sleep cycles.  By preemptively feeding your baby before they wake up, you’re teaching their body to follow a more predictable rhythm, a key part of gentle sleep training. 

However, every baby is different. Some may benefit after just a few nights, while others may not need it at all. 

Is the Double Dream Feed Suitable for All Babies? 

Not always. A double dream feed works best for babies between 2 and 6 months who wake frequently due to hunger, not discomfort or sleep regression. It’s less effective for newborns (who need frequent feeds) or older babies (who can sleep longer stretches naturally). 

If your baby struggles with reflux or gas, always check with your pediatrician before trying dream feeds. 

How Do You Know If a Double Dream Feed Is Working? 

You’ll know it’s working when your baby starts sleeping longer stretches between the second dream feed and morning. Other positive signs include: 

• Fewer early-morning wake-ups 

• Easier nighttime settling 

• More predictable feeding patterns 

If you notice more frequent night wakings or difficulty resettling, your double dream feed schedule may need tweaking. 

When Should You Stop Doing Double Dream Feeds? 

Most parents can gradually phase out double dream feeds around 4–6 months of age, once the baby can go 6–8 hours without feeding. You can start by dropping the second feed first, then the first dream feed as your baby adjusts. 

A sleep training consultant from Lullabub Sleepers can guide you through this transition smoothly to ensure your baby continues sleeping well through the night. 

Can You Combine a Double Dream Feed with Sleep Training? 

Yes, in fact, combining the double dream feed with gentle sleep training methods can be very effective. The goal is to make sure your baby’s hunger needs are met while still promoting self-soothing and independent sleep. 

Lullabub Sleepers’ certified infant sleep trainers help parents balance feeding and sleep routines using gentle, evidence-based methods. 

What Do Experts Say About the Double Dream Feed? 

Most pediatric sleep experts agree that double dream feeds can help babies sleep longer if done correctly and at the right stage. It’s not about forcing a routine but gently aligning feeding and sleep cycles. 

At Lullabub Sleepers, we customize sleep plans, including double dream feeds, based on your baby’s age, temperament, and sleep needs. 

FAQs 

What time should the double dream feed be?

The first double dream feed is usually around 10–11 p.m., before parents go to bed, and the second around 2–3 a.m. Adjust based on your baby’s natural wake patterns. 

Do I wake my baby for a double dream feed? 

No. The beauty of the double dream feed is that your baby stays half-asleep during feeding. Gently lift and feed them without fully waking them. 

How long should a dream feed last? 

A double dream feed typically lasts 10–15 minutes, just enough to fill your baby without disturbing their sleep rhythm. 

Will a double dream feed cause overfeeding?

Unlikely. Babies have a natural ability to regulate intake. If your baby refuses or drinks less during the second feed, it may be time to drop it. 

Can a sleep consultant help with dream feeding? 

Absolutely. A sleep training consultant from Lullabub Sleepers can tailor a double dream feed plan to your baby’s specific sleep and feeding needs, ensuring smoother nights for the whole family. 

Is the double dream feed safe for newborns? 

Yes, if done gently and under guidance. For very young babies, consult your pediatrician or a sleep consultant before starting a double dream feed schedule.