Everything you need to know about sleeping bags

Sleeping bags are usually introduced when your baby is ready to stop using a swaddle . This usually happens between 3 to 4 months when they start to show the first signs of being able to roll over on their own in their sleep. If your baby has not used a swaddle since birth, then you can introduce a sleeping bag from their first few days up to six years.

6 benefits of introducing a sleeping bag

The sleeping bag is not only comfortable and warm for your baby, but it also provides security and is a great ally in your little one's sleeping routine .

1. It makes the transition from swaddling easier .

If your baby has learned to roll over on his own when sleeping, it is a clear sign that it is time to move from the swaddle to the sleeping bag . This way he will have more freedom when sleeping. Remember that while your baby is wearing the swaddle he should always be face up.

2. Provides the support needed for a good rest.

3. A positive association is achieved with the sleeping routine.

Sleeping bags are a good sign when it comes to getting your little one to sleep. Your baby will start to associate the sleeping bag with going to bed and this will signal to his body that sleep is imminent every time you put it on him.

4. You don't have to worry if it comes uncovered at night. 

Sleeping bags are blankets that “dress” your baby. That means that even when he moves, rolls or spins around the crib, he is still completely and safely covered . So you no longer have to worry about whether he is cold or not.

5. Prevents your baby from learning to climb out of the crib .

Sleeping bags can prevent crawling, standing, or climbing out of the crib . These activities are very difficult with sleeping bags, so your baby will probably learn that it is not worth the effort and this could give him a few extra hours of sleep.

6. Provides security .

Your baby does not run the risk of suffocation by covering his face with the crib bedding, and it also prevents his feet from getting caught in the crib bars.

How to choose a sleeping bag according to the room temperature ?

There are different types of sleeping bags depending on their TOG. In case you don't know, the TOG is the measurement that determines its thickness and the warmth it provides to your baby . So, the higher this measurement is, the warmer and thicker the sleeping bag is.

• 0.5 tog: made from a single sheet of cotton, unfilled and suitable for temperatures above 24ºC.

• 1.0 tog: they have very little padding and are suitable for temperatures between 18ºC and 24ºC.

• 2.5 tog: these have padding and are suitable for temperatures between 15ºC and 21ºC.

• 3.5 tog: These have even more padding than the 2.5 tog and are suitable for the colder months with temperatures below 18ºC. ⠀

Whether it's winter or summer , remember that babies sleep better in a cool environment, meaning not too cold or too hot . Check out this guide on how to dress your little one according to the temperature of their room: ⠀

Making sure your baby sleeps comfortably and with the right layers for the temperatures will help him get a quality night's sleep . Keep in mind that sensitivity to cold or heat is personal. As you get to know your little one, you'll know exactly how many layers to put on based on the ambient temperature.