For new parents, making sure their precious little one has a safe and comfortable place to sleep is very important. But it can be hard to get that perfect sleep routine when you have to figure out what your baby is crying at night and change diapers over and over again. It’s here that the simple baby sleeping bag steps up as a hero.
A good sleeping bag is more than just a cute extra. It can change everything for you and your baby. This guide will show you the different types of baby sleeping bag, talk about the benefits of using one, and answer all your hot questions to help you find the best one for your little dreamer.
Get cozy and stay safe: Why Use a Sleeping Bag?
Traditional open blankets can suffocate babies because they can move around and cover their faces by accident. When it comes to sleeping bags, they fit your baby snugly and keep them warm and safe all night.
Here are some of the best reasons to use a sleeping bag:
Less chance of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome): Studies have shown that sleeping in a sleeping bag lowers the chance of SIDS.
Encourages safe sleep habits: sleeping bags get rid of the need for open blankets, pillows, and other bedding items that can be dangerous for babies.
Keeps the same temperature: sleeping bags come in different tog grades, which is a measure of thermal resistance, so your baby will be comfortable no matter the weather.
*Keeps baby from rolling over too early: sleeping bags can help keep your baby on their back, which is the best way to sleep to lower the risk of SIDS.
Gives your baby a sense of security: A sleeping bag’s tight fit can make your baby feel like they are being swaddled, which can help them feel safe and calm.
How to Choose the Right Sleeping Bag Type for You
There are many kinds of baby sleeping bags to choose from, so you can find one that fits your baby’s wants and tastes. Here is a list of the most popular kinds:
Swaddle Bags: These bags are great for newborns because they feel like swaddling, which makes them feel safe and stops the startle response.
Wearable Blankets: These bags give babies more room to move and kick while still keeping them warm, making them perfect for when they are ready to stop being swaddled.
Beans Rated for Togs: The tog number (usually between 0.5 and 3.5 tog) of these bags tells you how warm they are. Pick a tog rating that fits your environment and the temperature of your room.
Summer Bags: These bags are great for keeping your baby cool on hot nights because they are made of light, airy materials.
Bags for travel: These bags are made to be portable, and many of them come with extras like a blanket that can be taken off for more options.
Important Things to Think About
Besides the type of sleeping bag, these things should help you find the right one for your baby:
Material: Cotton or organic cotton, which is soft and breathable, is best for comfort and keeping you from getting too hot. Closure: Zippers are great for quick changes, while snaps are a quieter choice.
Armholes: Bags without sleeves are great for warmer weather, while bags with sleeves keep you warmer.
Legroom: Pick a bag that’s not too big so you can’t kick it, but big enough to move your legs around in.
Safety: Make sure the sleeping bag fits well and doesn’t have any extraneous threads or decorations that could get caught and cause choking.
Questions People Ask About Sleeping Bags for Babies
- When can I start using a sleeping bag? You can start using a sleeping bag from birth, as long as it fits your baby securely.
- How long should my baby use a sleeping bag? Most babies can transition out of a sleeping bag by 18 months or when they can climb out of the crib.
- How do I know if the sleeping bag is the right temperature? Feel your baby’s chest to gauge their temperature. They should feel warm but not sweaty.
- Can my baby sleep with a pillow in a sleeping bag? No, pillows are not recommended for babies under 1 year old, even in a sleeping bag.
