Evie Summers
Sleep sacks are a safe alternative to blankets for newborns and infants. They are designed to keep babies warm and comfortable while allowing freedom of movement. Sleep sacks are also known to help regulate body temperature, creating a comfortable sleep environment. They are generally safe for infants to sleep in, allowing them to move their arms, hips, and legs freely, and push themselves up when they start to roll over. Sleep sacks also eliminate the need for extra blankets, reducing the risk of SIDS. When choosing a sleep sack, it is important to consider the size, fabric, and TOG rating to ensure the perfect balance between warmth and breathability.
Sleep Sacks for Newborns
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Reduces the risks of SIDS by removing the need for blankets |
| Temperature Regulation | Helps regulate the baby's body temperature |
| Fit | Should be roomy enough for kicking but not too big to avoid bunching around the baby's face |
| Fabric | Soft, breathable, gentle on skin, ideal for babies with eczema |
| Zipper | Two-way zipper for easy diaper changes |
| Zipper Shield | Ensures baby's safety from contact with the zipper |
| Size | Based on weight and height, not age |
| Sleeveless | Allows freedom of movement |
| Price | $39.95 to $59.95 |
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What You'll Learn
Safety considerations
Sleep sacks are generally considered safe for newborns and babies. They are wearable blankets designed to keep your baby warm during the night. Sleep sacks are considered safer than blankets as they do not cover the baby's face, reducing the risk of suffocation. They also allow the baby to move their arms and legs freely, reducing the risk of hip dislocation or dysplasia.
However, it is important to ensure that the sleep sack is not too big for the baby. If it is too large, there is a risk of the fabric covering the baby's face, which can be hazardous. The sleep sack should fit the baby's current weight and size with a bit of "kicking room". It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's sizing guidelines to ensure the correct fit.
Sleep sacks are also recommended as a safer alternative to swaddling once the baby starts to roll over. Swaddling involves wrapping the baby tightly in a blanket, which can increase the risk of hip problems and make it difficult for the baby to roll back onto their back if they end up face down. Sleep sacks, on the other hand, allow for freedom of movement and do not restrict the baby's ability to roll.
Weighted sleep sacks, however, are not recommended for infants. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have warned against the use of weighted products for infants, including weighted sleep sacks and blankets. The beads or poly pellets used in these products can pose a hazard, and they may also work against the baby's ability to reposition themselves while sleeping.
It is always important to prioritise the safety and comfort of your baby when choosing sleepwear. Sleep sacks can provide a secure and cosy sleeping environment, but it is crucial to ensure they are correctly sized and used appropriately to minimise any potential risks.
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Fabric and material
When choosing a sleep sack for your newborn, it is important to consider the fabric and material. Sleep sacks are designed to keep your baby warm and safe, providing a feeling of security similar to that of the womb. They are a safer alternative to loose blankets, which may pose a danger to newborns by covering their faces and impeding their ability to breathe.
Sleep sacks are typically made from soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, hemp, and Merino wool. Cotton is a popular choice for baby clothing and sheets due to its breathability and softness. It is important to look for products that are 100% organic cotton to avoid exposing your newborn to harmful chemicals and irritants. Bamboo is another option, known for its durability, softness, moisture absorption, and hypoallergenic properties. However, bamboo sleep sacks may be more expensive and require delicate washing.
Merino wool is also a popular fabric for sleep sacks, known for its temperature regulation properties. Woolino sleep sacks, for example, feature a 100% merino wool liner that is breathable and works well in both cooler and warmer temperatures. This fabric has been tested against potentially dangerous chemicals, providing peace of mind for parents. Additionally, some sleep sacks use a blend of fabrics, such as 97% bamboo viscose and 3% spandex, offering lightweight breathability for warmer weather.
Other fabrics to consider include linen, which is a top choice for summer due to its thin and lightweight nature, and rayon, a man-made fabric blended from cotton, wood pulp, and other natural or synthetic fibers. Linen, however, requires more maintenance as it tends to get crinkled easily and needs to be washed with gentle care. Rayon, similarly, can be harder to maintain and may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
When choosing a sleep sack fabric, it is important to prioritize softness, breathability, and safety. Pre-washing sleep sacks and baby clothes before their first use is essential to remove any chemicals or irritants that could cause a reaction on your newborn's sensitive skin. Additionally, avoiding accessories like buttons, clips, or strings that could scratch or harm your baby is crucial.
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$29.99 $39.99
Temperature regulation
When selecting a sleep sack, it is crucial to choose one that fits your baby's age, weight, and the temperature of their room appropriately. A sleep sack that is too loose can pose a suffocation risk, while one that is too tight can restrict your baby's movement and affect their hip development. Sleep sacks with excellent temperature regulation properties, such as Woolino's 4-season options or those made with high-tech fibers like SIJO's CLIMA™ technology, can help reduce the risk of your baby overheating or getting too cold during the night.
Sleeveless sleep sacks are ideal for the summer months as they allow your baby's arms to be free, enabling them to roll over comfortably. Transitional sleep sacks are useful when transitioning from swaddling to a sleep sack, as they immobilize the baby's arms while keeping their legs free. Seasonal sleep sacks, on the other hand, are designed to be worn year-round and can be paired with suitable clothing underneath to ensure your baby stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
It is important to periodically check your baby's temperature to ensure they are comfortable and safe. Adjust layers as needed by adding or removing them to maintain a suitable temperature. Avoid using hats or additional blankets with sleep sacks, as they can increase the risk of overheating. Remember that every baby is unique, and you may need to adjust the clothing layers based on your baby's individual needs and preferences. Consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about how to dress your baby for sleep.
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Size and fit
The size and fit of a sleep sack are important considerations when choosing one for your newborn. Sleep sacks are available in different sizes, and it is crucial to select one that fits your baby well. An appropriate fit ensures your baby's comfort and safety while sleeping.
When selecting a sleep sack, it is recommended to go by weight and height recommendations rather than age guidelines. Most manufacturers provide a size chart with height and weight ranges to help you choose the right size for your baby. The sleep sack should be snug but not too tight, allowing your baby's legs and hips to move freely without restricting their movement. It is important to ensure that the armholes are tight enough to prevent your baby's arms from slipping back into the sack, and that there is enough room for them to kick their legs.
The "snap back" test is a common method to determine if the sleep sack fits well. This involves pulling the sleep sack up and over your baby's chin briefly. If it snaps back down immediately, it indicates a good fit, while if it remains hovered over the face, it may be too big. Additionally, you can check the fit around the neck by pulling the neckline towards the baby's nose.
It is worth noting that sleep sacks come in different "TOGs," which indicate the thickness of the sleep sack. TOG stands for Thermal Overall Guide and measures the insulation and warmth of the sack. A lower TOG indicates a lighter fabric, while a higher TOG provides more insulation and warmth. You can choose the appropriate TOG based on your baby's sleep environment and room temperature.
Sleep sacks can be used from day one, but many parents opt to use swaddles for newborns until they show signs of rolling, typically around 2 to 4 months of age. A swaddle provides a womb-like environment, keeping newborns snug and comfortable. However, once your baby starts rolling or shows discomfort with the swaddle, it is time to transition to a sleep sack.
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Product reviews
The Halo SleepSack is a popular choice for parents, with its soft, lightweight, and easy-to-use design. It has won awards from What to Expect and has been described as the "perfect wearable blanket". The sleeveless design keeps babies from overheating, and the 100% cotton fabric keeps them comfortable. The inverted zipper makes diaper changes a breeze, and the Velcro fasteners make swaddling easier than traditional blanket-folding methods. The Halo SleepSack Swaddle is a similar product that combines the benefits of a swaddle and a sleep sack, with two Velcro flaps that can pin the baby's arms down.
Another highly recommended product is the Milk Snob Sleep Bag, which is made with premium rayon-blend fabric and filled with plush filling to maintain warmth while allowing freedom of movement. The gentle, breathable fabric blend soothes sensitive skin and is ideal for babies with eczema. The two-way zipper makes diaper changes quick and easy, and the zipper shield adds an extra layer of protection to keep your baby safe.
The Ollie Swaddle is another favourite among parents, known for its strong Velcro that lasts multiple kids and makes it harder for newborns to escape the swaddle. The tie at the bottom also makes it a one-size-fits-all swaddle, so it grows with your baby. The SwaddleMe swaddle is a similar product that is easy to use, especially after middle-of-the-night feedings. However, the Velcro may not last as well for multiple babies, and bigger newborns may grow out of it more quickly.
For those who prefer a more eco-friendly option, Swaddlelin's baby swaddles and sleep sacks are made with patented Hug Technology®, sustainably sourced yarns, and local craftsmanship. Their seamless, sensory-friendly sleep sacks are made with a variety of fibres, including bamboo, to ensure that even the most sensitive baby can sleep well.
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Frequently asked questions
A sleep sack is a wearable blanket for babies. It is a safe alternative to a loose blanket, which can help to regulate a baby's body temperature and reduce the risks of SIDS.
Sleep sacks are made from a variety of materials, including cotton, rayon-blend fabric, bamboo, and merino wool. The fabric should be breathable and gentle on the skin.
The right size for your newborn will have enough room for kicking but will not be so big that the material can bunch up around their face. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, which are usually based on weight and height.
The Halo 100% cotton 3-way swaddle sack is a good option for newborns as it has adjustable wings and allows for leg movement. The WildBird Arms Out Sleep Sack for Newborns is another option to consider, as it is designed to allow babies to move and roll over comfortably.
