Whether it’s your first or second child, we are always in doubt whether we are doing things right. We all want to get it right the first time, and that’s okay. If you are thinking of furnishing your child’s bedroom, I know you are probably gazing at several online catalogues or spending most of your time at stores trying to find the best products your child may need.
If this is you, then you have no doubt come across numerous baby sleeping bags or even purchased one already. But what is the appropriate time to put a sleeping bag on your baby? Does your baby need to wear any baby sleepsuits before going in a sleeping bag? Well, let’s find out.
When is it safe to start using a sleeping bag?
Every baby is unique, and their sleeping needs vary. Baby sleeping bags, also known as wearable blankets, are designed to be used from birth onwards, but many parents choose to wait until their baby is at least six weeks old before introducing one. This waiting period allows them to become familiar with their baby’s sleeping patterns and needs.
However, it’s important to note that there are sleeping bags specifically designed for newborns that are perfectly safe to use from day one. The key factor to consider is the fit—ensure the baby’s head cannot slip inside the bag. If your baby’s head fits snugly through the neck opening without the risk of slipping in, the sleeping bag is safe to use.
Sleeping bags can offer several advantages over traditional blankets. They help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by eliminating the need for loose bedding that could cover the baby’s face. They also help keep your baby warm and comfortable throughout the night without the risk of them kicking off the blankets.
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the tog rating, which indicates the warmth of the bag. Select a bag with an appropriate tog rating for the season to ensure your baby doesn’t overheat or get too cold. Additionally, check the size—ensure that the sleeping bag fits your baby’s current weight and size, not just their age.
In conclusion, as long as your baby’s head cannot slip inside and the sleeping bag fits well, it can be used from birth. Just be mindful of the weather and choose a sleeping bag that provides the right level of warmth for your baby’s comfort and safety.
What’s the appropriate sleeping bag size?
When selecting your baby’s sleeping bag, it is very important to choose the right size. The wrong size means that your baby won’t be safe. Your sleeping bag should fit your baby snugly at the top to prevent them from slipping down.
Safety should be your priority. If the sleeping bag is small, there might be no room for your baby to stretch its legs. It could also be too tight for your baby around the neck, making them uncomfortable. Bags are available in the market in different sizes, the most popular ones being 0-6, 6-18, and 18-36 months. 18-36 months are the longest; therefore, you will be able to get the most out of them even if your baby grows pretty fast.
Warmth rating or the tog weight?
Your baby’s room temperature should be between 18 and 19 degrees at all times. Be sure to choose the correct sleeping bag for your baby using a tog index. The lower the sleeping bag’s tog index, the cooler the sleeping bag. If the room is between 18 and 19 degrees, go for a sleeping bag with a tog 2 index.
Tog 3.5 sleeping bags fit a room with temperatures under 14 degrees but must be accompanied by cotton baby sleepsuits. During summer, when temperatures are between 22-24 degrees, go for a tog 1.5 index sleeping bag. For temperatures over 25 degrees, go for a tog 0.5 tog sleeping bag with short-sleeved baby sleepsuits.
What are the available designs?
Numerous designs are available in the market with fun patterns, organic materials, and colours. Some styles will have a two-way zip in front and some slits at the back. Their sleeping bags come with poppers at the top for younger children, making it easy to put on your baby and remove when it’s time for a diaper change.
A quick tip: never use a duvet to cover your baby’s sleeping bag, as this may cause overheating. Some sleeping bags come with hoods, but this should be avoided since they are a significant cause of sudden-death infant syndrome (SDIs). Sleeping bags come in different sizes and shapes, and there is something for every baby.
