babycity's guide to understanding sleep bags and TOG Ratings

Helping your little one sleep comfortably, whatever the season.

When it comes to dressing your baby for sleep, it's natural to have questions.

• Which TOG should I choose?
• How many layers does my baby need?
• Is merino warmer than cotton?
• When should I stop swaddling?

The good news is that choosing the right sleepwear doesn't have to be complicated. 

Understanding TOG ratings, room temperature, layering and fabric choices can help you feel more confident creating a comfortable sleep environment for your little one.

In this guide, we'll help you understand the basics of sleep bags, swaddles and choosing the right sleepwear for every stage.

What is a TOG Rating? 

A TOG rating stands for Thermal Overall Grade, and is a unit of measurement that indicates the warmth of the fabric. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the product.

Babies don't regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults, so selecting the right sleepwear helps create a comfortable environment without relying on loose blankets.

However, choosing the right TOG isn't about the season or weather outside, it's about dressing for the temperature of your baby's sleep environment and room temperature.

Check your baby's room temperature

Before choosing sleepwear, consider the temperature of your baby's nursery.

A cold night outside doesn't always mean a cold nursery. Heating, insulation and room location can all affect the temperature where your baby sleeps.

That's why room temperature is a much better guide than the season.

Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and consider your baby's individual needs.

Choose the right layers

A sleep bag or swaddle provides the main layer of warmth, with clothing underneath adjusted based on your baby's room temperature and the TOG rating of the product.

The right combination will depend on:

• Your baby's room temperature
• The TOG rating of the sleep bag or swaddle
• Your baby's individual needs

Tip: Check your baby's chest or back to see if they feel comfortably warm. Cold hands and feet don't always mean your baby is cold. Layering recommendations are a guide only. Always follow the instructions provided by the sleepwear manufacturer and adjust based on your baby's comfort.

The babycity® guide to layering with Love to Dream™ sleepwear 

The babycity® guide to layering with Mokopuna™ sleepwear 

Choosing the right fabric

Not all fabrics perform the same. Different fabrics provide different benefits, and the best choice depends on your baby's needs and environment.

Cotton
Soft, breathable and perfect for everyday comfort.

Great for:

• Everyday use
• Mild temperatures
• Sensitive skin

Available in selected Love to Dream sleepwear.

Merino
Merino wool is naturally breathable and temperature regulating. It helps keep little ones warm when it's cool while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape.

Great for:

• Winter
• Layering
• Changing temperatures

Available from brands like Mokopuna and Woolbabe.

Bamboo
Bamboo is incredibly soft, lightweight and breathable. It naturally wicks moisture away from the skin, helping little ones stay comfortable.

Great for:

• Warmer sleepers
• Sensitive skin
• Everyday comfort

Available in selected Love to Dream sleepwear.

Swaddles or sleep bags?

As your little one grows, their sleepwear needs will change.

Newborn stage: Swaddles
Swaddles or swaddle bags provide a snug, secure feeling that can help newborns settle.

Many newborns naturally enjoy being swaddled as it can help reduce the startle reflex (Moro reflex) that may wake them.

Starting to roll: Transition sleep bags
When your baby shows signs they are ready to roll, it is time to transition away from traditional swaddling.

Transition sleep bags allow babies to move their arms freely while still providing a familiar sleep environment.

Rolling independently: Sleep bags
Once your baby is rolling, arms-out sleep bags allow them to move freely and safely during sleep.

Love to Dream - swaddle up, transition suit/bag?! What does it mean? 

Swaddle up and transition suit / bags are the different Love to Dream bags to accommodate your child during the different stages of their sleep journey. By choosing the appropriate sleepwear for each stage, you can support your child's natural sleep patterns while ensuring their safety and comfort throughout. 

	Swaddle Up: newborn and swaddling stage: Designed to support baby's natural arms-up sleeping position, the Swaddle Up™ provides a snug, secure feel while allowing access to hands for self-soothing. It helps create a familiar sleep environment during the newborn stage.
	Transition suit/bag: ready-to-roll stage: As your baby begins showing signs of rolling, Transition Suits/Bags help make the move to arms-free sleep easier. The zip-off wings allow you to gradually transition one arm at a time while maintaining a familiar, comforting feel.

What is a sleep bag?

A sleep bag (also known as a sleep sack or swaddle bag for newborns) is designed to keep your baby cosy and comfortable while they sleep. 

It offers similar benefits to traditional swaddling, helps replace loose blankets, and offers an easy transition from swaddling to arms-free sleep as your baby grows. Many also feature convenient zip designs for easy changes.

Why would I use a sleep bag? 

Sleep bags are designed to provide a safe and comfortable alternative to loose blankets. Benefits include:

Safe sleep: Using a sleep bag eliminates the need for loose blankets, reducing the risk of suffocation which loose blankets present for infants who cannot move blankets or toys obstructing their face; thus creating a safer sleep environment.  

Temperature regulation: Using a sleep bag helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night. This is especially helpful for wriggly infants who may kick off their covers, causing disrupted sleep due to waking up cold. 

Creating a familiar sleep environment: Sleep bags serve as a sleep cue, signaling to your baby that it's time for bed, thus aiding in establishing a bedtime routine.  

Convenience: When it comes to nighttime diaper changes, simply unzip the bottom of the bag to release your child's legs and quickly change the diaper quietly without having to remove additional clothing items which may wake them – parents often say that diaper changes with a bag can actually be done while the baby still sleeps soundly! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sleep bags safe for newborns? 

Yes! As long as you’re buying the correct size, TOG and stage for your infant; you can choose to use a sleep bag from birth.  

How do I know if my baby is too hot?

Feel your baby's chest of back.
Signs your baby may be too warm can include:

• Sweating
• Damp hair
• Flushed cheeks
• Hot skin

If this happens, remove a layer and check their temperature again.

My baby is starting to roll, can I still use a sleep bag? 

Yes! Love to Dream Transition suits/bags are perfect for babies who can roll and have more motor control. These specifically designed items are clever and allow for your little one arms free sleep, so they can adjust their sleeping position, by rolling onto their backs.  

How long can my baby wear a sleep bag? 

Your child can wear a sleep bag for several years, as long as they are comfortable and wearing the correct size. As they grow, some children may prefer transitioning to blankets when developmentally appropriate.

Final tips for safe swaddling/sleep bag use 

1. Check the room temperature.
2. Choose the correct TOG rating.
3. Dress your baby in suitable layers underneath
4. Choose breathable fabrics.
5. Check your baby's chest or back to ensure they are comfortable.

Remember, every baby is different. If you're unsure which sleep solution is right for your little one, visit your local babycity® team for advice.

 Shop by TOG

0.2 TOG Lite	1.0 TOG Moderate	2.5 TOG Warm	3.5 TOG Extra Warm

Shop by Stage

Newborn Swaddle bags	Ready to Roll	On the Move