Choosing Safe And Affordable Newborn Sleeping Bags

Baby sleeping bags are wearable blankets that help babies sleep comfortably and safely. They are designed to regulate a baby's body temperature and create a cosy sleeping environment, potentially reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). They are also convenient for parents as they eliminate the need for extra blankets in the baby's sleep space.

The cost of newborn sleeping bags varies depending on the brand, material and features. For example, the Milk Snob Sleep Bag, made with premium rayon-blend fabric and filled with plush material, is priced at $100. On the other hand, sleeping bags from supermarkets like Sainsbury's and Asda offer good value for money. Merino wool sleeping bags, which are great for temperature regulation and can be used all year round, typically cost around $79 to $129.

When purchasing a baby sleeping bag, it is important to consider the size, weight range and temperature rating (tog). It should fit snugly around the baby's torso, leaving the arms, neck and head free, and provide enough room for the legs. It is recommended to have at least two sleeping bags per size to allow for washing and accidental messes.

How to choose the right newborn sleeping bag

Baby sleeping bags are wearable blankets that help your baby sleep comfortably and safely. They are designed to regulate temperature and create a cosy nest, reducing the risk of SIDS. They also eliminate the need for extra blankets in your baby's sleep space, which is always a safe choice.

Size:

It is important to choose a sleeping bag that fits your baby's current weight and size with a bit of 'kicking room'. If it's too big, there is a potential for extra material to bunch up around your baby's face, which can be hazardous. However, having some extra room in the foot area is not an issue. Make sure to check the minimum weight specified for each bag, as well as the neck and armhole fit. The bag should conform to the new British standard for baby sleeping bags (BS 8510:2009).

Temperature:

The right sleeping bag depends on the room temperature and how it affects your baby's sleeping space. A good rule of thumb is to keep your baby's room at a constant temperature of around 18 degrees Celsius. The sleeping bag's tog rating will determine its warmth, with higher togs indicating warmer bags. For example, a 2.5 tog bag is suitable for rooms between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius, while a 1 tog bag is suitable for rooms between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. You can adjust what your baby wears underneath the sleeping bag according to the temperature.

Material:

Natural materials are best as they are more breathable. Look for cotton or organic cotton with a polyester filling. Merino wool is also a good option for its thermoregulating properties, allowing it to be used in a wider range of temperatures. Muslin sleeping bags are excellent for heatwaves or holidays as they are light and breathable.

Safety:

The Lullaby Trust recommends baby sleeping bags as a safe option. Ensure that the sleeping bag meets British Safety Standards, such as BS EN 16781:2018. Avoid bags with extras like sleeves or a hood, as they can make it difficult to monitor your baby's temperature and may increase the risk of overheating. Choose a bag that offers a good fit around the armholes, preventing your baby from getting their hands or arms inside.

Number of Bags:

It is recommended to have between 3 and 6 sleeping bags, depending on factors such as laundry frequency and your local climate. Having a few extra bags can be useful for different seasons and when one is in the wash.

Additional Features:

Look for bags with two-way zips, which make nappy changes easier. Some bags have side zips with poppers over the shoulders, while others have a zip down the front. You may also want to consider bags with travel features, such as openings for car seat and buggy harnesses.

Are sleeping bags safe for infants?

Baby sleeping bags are wearable blankets designed to help infants sleep comfortably and safely. They are particularly useful for parents who want to reduce the risks associated with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by eliminating the need for extra blankets in the crib.

Safety considerations

When choosing a baby sleeping bag, it is important to consider the following:

• Tog rating: The tog rating indicates how warm the sleeping bag will be. It is important to choose a sleeping bag with an appropriate tog rating for the temperature of the room your baby is sleeping in. A higher tog rating will provide more warmth, while a lower tog rating will be more suitable for warmer weather.
• Size: It is important to choose a sleeping bag that fits your baby's current weight and size, with a bit of 'kicking room'. A sleeping bag that is too big could pose a suffocation risk if the baby's head slips inside, while one that is too small could restrict their movement and airflow.
• Fabric: Sleeping bags made from natural fibres such as organic cotton, bamboo, or Merino wool are safer than synthetic alternatives as they are more breathable and help regulate your baby's temperature.
• Design: Avoid sleeping bags with hoods, sleeves, or extra accessories such as buttons or tassels, as these can pose a safety risk. Look for sleeping bags with safe fastenings, such as zippers or poppers, and smooth seams without sharp edges.
• Safety standards: Look for sleeping bags that conform to the British safety standard of BS 8510:2009 or the more recent BS EN 16781:2018.

Benefits of baby sleeping bags

Baby sleeping bags offer several benefits, including:

• Allowing babies to move freely and kick their arms and legs without restriction.
• Helping to maintain a safe and constant temperature throughout the night.
• Eliminating the need for additional covers, such as blankets or duvets, which can pose a suffocation risk.
• Promoting better and deeper sleep by providing a feeling of security.
• Making it easier to feed your baby, as you can simply lift them from their crib while they are still inside the sleeping bag.
• Offering peace of mind to parents, knowing that their baby's sleeping space is as safe as possible.

Most parents find that having between 3 and 6 sleeping bags is sufficient, depending on factors such as laundry schedule and local climate. It is a good idea to have a few extra sleeping bags for different seasons and to rotate while washing.

How many sleeping bags do I need?

The number of sleeping bags you need for your newborn will depend on several factors. Firstly, how often are you willing to do laundry? If you're on top of laundry and do it regularly, you may only need 2 or 3 sleeping bags. However, if you prefer to spread out laundry days and have some extra sleeping bags on hand, 4 to 6 bags may be more suitable. It's always good to have a few spares for those unexpected messes!

Another factor to consider is the season and temperature. You'll need different tog ratings for different seasons to ensure your baby is comfortable all year round. For example, during the summer or in warmer climates, you'll want breathable cotton sleeping bags that allow your baby's arms to be free for better ventilation. In contrast, during the winter or in colder climates, you'll need something warmer and cozier, like a wool sleeping bag.

Additionally, the age and size of your baby will determine the number of sleeping bags you need. Newborns may require more frequent changes due to sickness or leaky nappies, so having a few extra sleeping bags in the smaller sizes may be beneficial. As your baby grows, you may need fewer sleeping bags, as toddlers tend to keep their bedding cleaner.

It's worth noting that some sleeping bags are designed with adjustable tog ratings, which can save you from buying separate bags for different seasons.

In summary, most parents find that having between 3 and 6 sleeping bags is sufficient, depending on their laundry schedule and the climate.

How to care for a sleeping bag

Baby sleeping bags are a great way to keep your newborn safe and comfortable as they sleep. They are also a convenient option for parents. Here are some tips on how to care for a baby sleeping bag:

Choosing the Right Sleeping Bag

It is important to choose a sleeping bag that fits your baby well. The bag should be snug around the neck and armholes to prevent your baby from slipping down inside. The armholes should be tight enough so that your baby cannot get their hands inside the bag. The bag should also have the correct tog rating for the temperature of the room—the higher the tog rating, the warmer the bag.

Using the Sleeping Bag Safely

Baby sleeping bags should be used without additional blankets or duvets, as this can lead to overheating. Depending on the room temperature and the tog, you can adjust your baby's clothing as necessary. It is important to monitor your baby's temperature to ensure they do not get too hot or too cold. You can do this by feeling their tummy, neck, or back. If your baby feels sweaty and cold to the touch, adjust their clothing or the room temperature.

Washing the Sleeping Bag

It is important to wash your baby's sleeping bag regularly, especially if it gets soiled or your baby has been sick. Always read the washing and drying instructions before laundering the bag. Some materials, such as merino wool, are more resistant to bacterial growth and may not need to be washed as frequently.

Storing the Sleeping Bag

When not in use, store the sleeping bag in a cool, dry place. This will help to keep it clean and free from dust or other allergens.

Replacing the Sleeping Bag

As your baby grows, you will need to replace the sleeping bag with a larger size. It is important to choose a bag that is the correct weight and length for your baby's current size. The sleeping bag should not be too big, as this could pose a safety hazard.

How much room should a baby have in a sleeping bag?

When it comes to putting your baby to sleep, safety is paramount. Baby sleeping bags are a great way to ensure your baby sleeps comfortably and safely.

A baby sleeping bag should fit your baby's current weight and size with a bit of "kicking room". If it is too big, there is a chance that the extra material could bunch up around their face, which can be hazardous. However, having some extra room in the foot area is perfectly fine.

The sleeping bag will need to fit your baby well, so it is best to opt for one that is adjustable in size. It is also important to ensure that the baby has enough leg room for healthy hip development. The Lullaby Trust and the NHS both recommend the use of baby sleeping bags as they can reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

What to Look Out for When Choosing a Baby Sleeping Bag:

• Avoid baby sleeping bags with hoods or sleeves as these can cause your baby to overheat and increase the risk of SIDS.
• Ensure the bag fits snugly around the armholes so that the baby cannot get their hands or arms inside the bag.
• Sleeping bags should not be used with additional blankets or duvets as this can lead to overheating, which is dangerous for the baby.
• Look for sleeping bags that fit snugly across the chest but are roomy at the bottom to allow for a "frog-legged" sleeping position, which is important for hip development.
• Never use a sleeping bag with drawstrings or other strangulation hazards.
• Ensure there are no uncomfortable tags or zips on the inside of the sleeping bag that could irritate your baby.

How to Choose the Right Tog Rating:

The "tog" rating indicates how warm the sleeping bag is. The warmer the room, the lower the tog should be, and vice versa. Here is a general guide for choosing the right tog rating:

• Room under 14°C: Use a 3.5 tog with a cotton bodysuit and sleepsuit.
• Room under 16°C: Use a 2.5 tog bag with a cotton bodysuit and sleepsuit.
• Room at 17-21°C: Use a 2.5 tog with a cotton bodysuit.
• Room at 22-25°C: Use a lightweight 1.5 tog with a cotton bodysuit.
• Room above 25°C: Use a 0.5 tog sheet or muslin bag and a short-sleeved bodysuit.

Additional Tips for Safe Sleep:

• Keep your baby's room at a constant temperature, ideally around 18°C.
• Feel your baby's hands, feet, and forehead to ensure they are neither too warm nor too cold.
• Your baby's skin should always be warm and dry to the touch.
• If your baby feels sweaty and cold to the touch (on their tummy, chest, and back of the neck), adjust their clothing or the room temperature.
• Ensure the baby's mattress is firm, flat, and waterproof.
• Avoid using sleeping pods or nests as they have raised or cushioned areas, which can be unsafe.
• Do not use cot bumpers, pillows, or loose bedding as these can cover the baby's mouth or nose and make them too hot.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your baby has a safe and comfortable sleep environment.

Frequently asked questions