If you're a parent, you've probably wondered at some point about the best way to keep your baby snug and safe at night. Enter the baby sleeping bag — a popular alternative to blankets that keep your little one warm without the risk of them kicking covers off during the night. But what about the tog rating? Is it just a fancy term, or does it actually make a difference? Let’s dive into the details with this guide to help you pick the perfect one for your little dreamer.
What is a Baby Sleeping Bag?
A baby sleeping bag is essentially a wearable blanket that keeps your baby warm and cosy through the night. Unlike regular blankets, which can be kicked off or get tangled, a sleeping bag stays securely on your baby, providing warmth while also allowing them to move their arms and legs freely. Most baby sleeping bags feature a zip or poppers for easy access and are designed to fit comfortably, without restricting your baby’s movements.
They come in various sizes and materials, with one of the most important factors being the tog rating. But more on that later…
Benefits of Using a Baby Sleeping Bag
A baby sleeping bag offers several key benefits that make it a go-to choice for many parents:
- Keeps Baby Warm Without Blankets: No more worrying about baby kicking off their covers in the middle of the night. A sleeping bag keeps the warmth in place.
- Safer Than Loose Bedding: Sleeping bags help reduce the risk of your baby becoming tangled in blankets or accidentally covering their face.
- Helps with Sleep Routine: Many babies associate their sleeping bag with bedtime, which can help them feel more settled and ready for sleep.
- Comfortable and Breathable: High-quality sleeping bags are made from soft, breathable fabrics that prevent overheating while still keeping your baby snug.
- Convenient for Nighttime Changes: No need to fumble with blankets when it’s time for a quick nappy change. The zip on most sleeping bags makes it easy to access your baby without fully waking them.
What is a Tog Rating? Why Important?
If you’ve ever been confused by the “tog” label on a baby sleeping bag, you’re not alone. But here’s the simple breakdown: tog is a unit of measurement that tells you how warm or cool the sleeping bag will keep your baby. The higher the tog rating, the warmer the sleeping bag. Tog ratings help ensure your baby stays comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold.
When it comes to baby sleeping bags, choosing the right tog is crucial because babies can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults. The wrong tog could mean your baby wakes up too hot, too cold or doesn’t sleep as soundly as they could.
Tog Ratings for Different Temperatures
Tog ratings aren’t just numbers; they’re a guide to help you match your baby’s sleeping bag to the season or room temperature. Here's how to choose the right tog for your baby’s environment.
0.5 Tog – Ideal for Summer Nights and Warmer Homes
A 0.5 tog sleeping bag is perfect for those sweltering summer nights or if you live in a particularly warm home. It’s the lightest option and keeps your baby comfortable without overheating. You’d usually use this for warm weather when the room temperature is above 24°C. Think of it as a “barely-there” option, ideal for hot, sticky nights where less is definitely more.
1.0 Tog – Suitable for Mild Temperatures
A 1.0 tog sleeping bag is the perfect middle ground — not too warm, not too cool. It’s great for those mild spring or autumn evenings, or if your home has relatively stable, moderate temperatures. If the room is between 21-24°C, this is your go-to choice. Not too hot, not too chilly, just right for those mild nights when you don’t want your baby to overheat but still need some warmth.
2.5 Tog – Great for Cooler Weather and Standard Room Temperatures
A 2.5 tog sleeping bag is a classic choice for cooler months or typical room temperatures (around 18-21°C). It provides enough warmth to keep your baby comfortable during those crisp autumn and winter evenings. It's also the most popular tog rating for year-round use in homes where the temperature fluctuates but never dips too low. You can use this sleeping bag with lighter layers or onesies underneath to suit the weather.
3.5 Tog – Best for Cold Winter Nights
For those really chilly winter nights, you’ll want a 3.5 tog sleeping bag. This is the warmest option available, ideal for when the room temperature dips below 18°C, or for homes that get particularly cold at night. A 3.5 tog will keep your baby toasty during the coldest months, so they stay cosy without the risk of them getting too cold or shivery. Pair with a thermal onesie or a long-sleeved bodysuit for maximum warmth.
How to Choose the Right Tog for Your Baby
Choosing the right tog for your baby can feel a bit like Goldilocks — not too hot, not too cold, just right. Here’s how to get it spot on.
Consider Your Home’s Average Temperature
The first thing to consider is your home’s general temperature. If you live in a warm climate, a lighter sleeping bag (0.5 or 1.0 tog) will be your best friend. In colder areas, or during winter months, you’ll want something thicker, like a 2.5 or 3.5 tog, to ensure your baby stays warm throughout the night.
A quick way to check room temperature is to use a room thermometer, or if you don’t have one, the old-fashioned way: stick your hand in your baby’s room and see how it feels. If it’s chilly on your hand, it’ll likely be chilly for your baby too.
Dressing Your Baby According to Tog
What your baby wears underneath their sleeping bag matters. If you choose a 1.0 or 2.5 tog bag, you don’t need to overdo it with thick layers. A light onesie or long-sleeve bodysuit should be enough. For a 3.5 tog bag, you may want to add a bit more, like a thermal bodysuit, depending on how cold it is.
As a general rule, try to dress your baby as you would dress yourself for the same temperature. If you’d put on a jumper in a 20°C room, your baby might need something similar under their sleeping bag.
Seasonal Changes and Tog Adjustments
As the seasons change, you’ll need to adjust your baby’s sleeping bag tog rating accordingly. Swap out lighter bags for thicker ones as the weather cools down, and be prepared to switch back to lighter bags in warmer months. Make sure you’re also keeping an eye on the room temperature, as it can fluctuate based on the weather or heating in the house.
Tips for Safe Sleeping with a Sleeping Bag
When using a baby sleeping bag, safety should always be a priority. Here are some tips to ensure your baby’s sleep environment is as safe as it is snug:
- Always use the correct size: Ensure the sleeping bag fits your baby properly — not too loose, but not too tight. A bag that’s too big can be a tripping hazard or allow the baby to slide down inside.
- No loose items in the crib: Keep the sleeping area clear of pillows, blankets, or stuffed toys, as these can pose a suffocation risk.
- Check baby’s temperature regularly: Feel your baby’s neck or back to ensure they aren’t too hot or cold. Babies are often warmer than adults, so keep an eye on their body temperature.
- Follow the care instructions: Always check the manufacturer’s care label to ensure you’re washing the sleeping bag correctly — that way it stays soft, warm, and in top condition.
Choosing the right baby sleeping bag tog for your little one is all about finding the balance between comfort and warmth. With the right tog and some thoughtful dressing, your baby will sleep safely and soundly, no matter the weather.
