What Is a Sleep Sack?
Different Types of Sleep Sacks
Swaddle-style sleep sacks: This design offers an easy-to-use alternative to classic swaddles, making them great for newborns. This type of wearable blanket constricts baby’s arms, which helps curb the moro reflex (also known as the startle reflex). However, as with regular swaddling, the use of sleep sacks that compress the arms, chest and body should stop once baby shows signs of starting to roll over.
Sleeveless sleep sacks: Another good option is a sleeveless sack, which keeps baby’s feet and body safely tucked inside the sleeping bag, but leaves their arms free to move during the night. This type is safe to use from infancy through toddlerhood, as it provides babies with increased mobility, thanks to the armholes. Rather than the wrap-around style used for swaddle sacks, sleeveless wearable blankets are generally fastened with full-length zippers, which gives you easy access for diaper changes.
TOG rating: A TOG rating is a unit of measurement that determines the thermal insulation of a garment. Essentially, the higher the TOG rating, the warmer an item is. For babies and toddlers, you’ll typically find sleepwear with a rating of 0.5 to 3.5. When choosing a sleep sack, check the manufacturer’s guidelines and opt for a TOG rating to suit your particular climate and the temperature of your child’s bedroom.
Material: When choosing a baby sleep sack, try to avoid styles made from synthetic materials. Natural fabrics—like cotton, muslin and wool—are breathable, warm and gentle on sensitive skin.
Zippers: Well-designed sleep sacks often feature dual zippers, meaning you can change baby’s diaper without having to remove the sleep sack entirely. If your child is slightly older—and prone to attempting daring escapes from the crib—an inverted zipper (or one that runs from top-to bottom) is a good option, as it’s harder for kids to unfasten.
Where to Shop for the Best Sleep Sacks
HALO: Over 20 years ago, HALO created the first ever wearable blanket for babies—and the brand has been going strong since. Their innovative sleep sacks can be used from birth on, and are the number one choice of infant sleepwear in 1,600 hospitals nationwide. Choose from five different styles designed to suit every stage of development up to 5 years of age. Oh, and did we mention that this brand is a Best of Baby winner too?
Baby deedee: This mom-owned company specializes in designing sleep sacks, pajamas and cozy outerwear for babies and tots. Baby deedee’s signature sleep bags come in three sizes for newborns, babies and toddlers with a range of fabrics to suit different climates. Plus, practical features such as a patented center zipper and shoulder snaps make them a dream to use.
buybuyBABY: Not ready to commit to one particular brand or style? No worries—buybuyBABY has a wide selection of baby and toddler sleep sacks from market leaders. This online store is home to bestselling brands like Nested Bean, Love to Dream, SwaddleMe and more.
