If you’re a parent, then you’ve probably heard about baby sleep sacks. These cozy little garments are a lifesaver for parents and a snug haven for babies.
But what exactly are they, and why should you add them to your parenting arsenal? Read on below for everything that you need to know about our baby sleep sack:
What is a Baby Sleep Sack?
A Modern Take on the Traditional Blanket
A baby sleep sack, also known as a sleep bag or a wearable blanket, is essentially a sleeping bag for your baby. Imagine a regular sleeping bag but designed specifically for infants with soft, breathable fabric and a more secure fit.
Unlike traditional loose blankets, sleep sacks zip up and keep your baby snug without the risk of covering their face, reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Also, a baby sleep sack provides an additional layer of warmth without restricting your baby’s arms or legs, unlike swaddling.
Why Choose a Sleep Sack Over a Blanket?
You might wonder, why not just use a regular blanket? The answer lies in safety and convenience. Blankets can easily get tangled or pulled over a baby’s face, posing a suffocation hazard. Sleep sacks, on the other hand, stay securely in place because your baby is wearing them, providing warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding.
The Benefits of Using a Baby Sleep Sack
There are plenty of benefits to using a baby sleep sack. To wit:
Safety First
The primary reason parents opt for sleep sacks is safety. As mentioned, sleep sacks help prevent SIDS by eliminating loose blankets in the crib. This simple switch can provide immense peace of mind.
Temperature Regulation
Just like blankets, a baby sleep sack can offer excellent temperature regulation. The baby sleep sacks that we offer here on Little Unicorn are made out of ultra soft, lightweight, and breathable cotton muslin, which can help keep your baby warm and cozy without the risk of overheating, unlike a bulky blanket.
Promotes Better Sleep
If your baby has taken to swaddling but has started to roll over in their sleep, then a baby sleep sack might prove to be a safer alternative. They still provide that consistent, womb-like snugness that helps babies feel cozy and secure in the same way that a swaddle does, but offers more freedom of movement. The end result? The same quality of sleep that they get when swaddled: longer and ultimately more restful!
How to Choose the Right Sleep Sack
Consider the TOG Rating
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade, an internationally recognized measurement of a garment’s thermal insulation. In short, it’s a rating that tells you how warm a garment is: the higher the number, the warmer the garment. Choosing the right TOG ensures your baby stays at a comfortable temperature.
Here at Little Unicorn, we offer sleep bags that have a TOG of 1.1, as well as quilted sleep bags that have a TOG of 2.6. While both are made out of cotton muslin, the quilted sleep bags are a better choice during the cooler months or in air conditioned homes.
Material Matters
While sleep bags can be made out of many different fabrics and materials, we’re big fans of cotton muslin here on Little Unicorn. In addition to being lightweight and breathable, our sleep bags are also softer and gentler on your baby’s skin. You’ll also be glad to know that our muslin is finely woven for added durability.
Size and Fit
Sleep sacks come in different sizes, typically based on your baby’s weight and age. Ensure the sleep sack fits well — snug around the neck and arms but roomy enough for leg movement. An ill-fitting sleep sack can be uncomfortable and unsafe.
You’ll find that our sleep bags here on Little Unicorn come in an innovative shape that provides ample room for your baby to move, aiding in the proper development of their hips and helping to avoid hip dysplasia.
Common Concerns and FAQs
Is it possible for my baby to overheat in a sleep sack?
Overheating is a valid concern, but it’s easily preventable. Always choose a sleep sack with the appropriate TOG rating and dress your baby in suitable layers accordingly. One telltale sign of overheating is dampness or sweat in your baby’s neck or back, so make sure to check on those regularly.
When should I stop using a sleep sack?
There’s no hard and fast rule for when to stop using a sleep sack. Many toddlers continue to use them until they transition to a regular bed. Look for larger sizes designed for toddlers if your little one still enjoys the comfort of a sleep sack. Here at Little Unicorn, we offer baby sleep sacks in sizes small, medium, large, and extra large.
Are Sleep Sacks Suitable for Newborns?
Yes, you absolutely can use a sleep sack from day one! However, some parents may instead opt for a swaddle instead during your baby’s first few months. (We also offer cotton muslin swaddle blankets here on Little Unicorn!) When your baby shows signs of starting to roll, you can then transition them to a sleep sack.
By choosing the right sleep sack, you’re providing your baby with comfort, security, and safety, all bundled up in a cute and convenient package. So, the next time you tuck your baby in, consider the sleep sack — a small investment for a big peace of mind.
