Bringing a baby home fills parents with joy, but also brings new challenges, responsibilities and sleepless nights. When it comes to sleep, ensuring that their little ones stay cool and comfortable can be a task, especially during summer. On the other hand, in the winter season, parents must also find ways to keep babies warm. Hence, TOG ratings come into the picture. Here's everything you need to know about TOG ratings and dressing your baby appropriately.
What Is TOG?
TOG stands for "Thermal Overall Grade.” It is a measurement used to indicate the warmth provided by bedding or clothing. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the fabric will keep your baby. TOG can help you select appropriate clothing and bedding based on room temperature, thus ensuring babies sleep comfortably and safely without overheating or feeling cold. For example, during chilly winters in northern India, a higher TOG rating is advisable, whereas during hot summers, especially in places like Mumbai or Chennai, you will need clothing with lower TOG ratings to keep your baby cool and comfortable.
Why is TOG Important?
TOG rating serves as a useful tool for parents in selecting the appropriate sleep sack based on their specific needs, especially for newborns who cannot regulate their body temperatures. TOG ratings basically help you decide what to wear in terms of weather. The lesser the TOG, the lighter the fabric. The higher the TOG, the warmer the fabric.
During the winter season, opting for a sleep sack with a higher TOG rating is advisable as it provides additional warmth. In summer, a sleep sack with a lower TOG rating should be considered to avoid overheating in babies. Overheating can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). You definitely do not want that, and hence, utmost care must be taken to ensure that your baby is maintaining the required body temperature.
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TOG Rating Temperature Chart
Here's a handy TOG temperature rating chart to guide you on what your baby should ideally wear based on the room temperature.
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0.2 TOG: 27°C and above (Very Hot)
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0.5 TOG: 24-27°C (Warm)
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1.0 TOG: 21-24°C (Moderate)
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2.5 TOG: 17-21°C (Cool)
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3.5 TOG: Below 17°C (Cold)
This chart is a helpful reference, especially in India's diverse climate, where room temperatures can significantly vary depending on your location and season.
What's The Best TOG for A Baby to Sleep In?
So now you want to choose the best TOG for your baby. Well, it largely depends on your local climate and your room's temperature. Generally:
Hot and Humid Indian Summers: If the temperature is consistently above 27°C, use clothing with a TOG rating of around 0.2-0.5. These lightweight materials help prevent overheating and sweating.
Moderate Climates: For temperatures around 21-24°C, typical of spring or monsoon seasons, opt for 1.0 TOG sleepwear. This provides enough warmth without causing discomfort.
Cooler Months or Air-conditioned Rooms: A 2.5 TOG rating is suitable for temperatures ranging between 17-21°C, common during mild winters or if you are using air conditioning extensively.
Cold Winter Nights: For temperatures dropping below 17°C, common in North India during winters, a higher TOG rating of around 3.5 is ideal. This ensures your baby remains warm through the night.
Adjust the TOG rating according to changes in weather, indoor heating or cooling, and your baby’s individual comfort level.
What Should A Baby Wear to Sleep?
Knowing what your baby should wear to sleep complements understanding TOG ratings. Here are some general recommendations:
Very Hot Weather (27°C and above): Opt for a simple sleeveless or short-sleeved bodysuit made from breathable fabrics like cotton. Consider using only a diaper and a thin muslin swaddle or sleeping bag with a TOG rating of 0.2-0.5.
Warm Weather (24-27°C): A short-sleeved cotton bodysuit paired with a lightweight sleeping bag rated at 0.5 TOG. Alternatively, use just a full-sleeved bodysuit if your baby seems comfortable.
Moderate Weather (21-24°C): A full-sleeved cotton bodysuit with a sleep sack rated at around 1.0 TOG is ideal. You might add socks or a thin cap if the temperature dips slightly.
Cool Weather (17-21°C): A long-sleeved cotton bodysuit and leggings or pyjamas with a medium-weight sleeping bag (around 2.5 TOG). Consider adding a layer of cotton pyjamas underneath if the temperature nears the lower end of this range.
Cold Weather (Below 17°C): Dress your baby in layers, such as a long-sleeved cotton bodysuit, warm pyjamas, and socks. Use a heavy-weight sleep sack with a TOG rating of around 3.5. Adding mittens or a soft hat can further help maintain warmth, especially if your baby’s hands and feet feel cold
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Essential Tips
Newborns are very sensitive to their surroundings, especially when it comes to temperature. Their ability to regulate body heat is underdeveloped, which makes maintaining the right room temperature critical for their health and comfort. Here are some tips that will help you understand your little one’s body temperature better:
Check Regularly: Feel your baby's neck or chest to check if they are too hot or cold, as these areas give the most accurate indication.
Avoid Overdressing: Overheating increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It's crucial to ensure your baby isn't overdressed.
Use Breathable Fabrics: Always prefer breathable, soft fabrics like cotton or muslin, especially suitable for Indian climates.
Avoid Heavy Blankets: For safety, avoid loose bedding and blankets. A sleeping bag or baby swaddle wrap is safer as it cannot cover your baby’s face.
Adjust Accordingly: Be flexible and ready to adjust your baby’s clothing based on how they feel, rather than strictly sticking to the temperature chart.
Using TOG ratings wisely ensures your baby stays comfortable and safe. However, you must always observe your baby regularly and adapt to the changing climate. Sleep time shouldn’t look like a war zone between you and your baby. We understand that as new parents, sleep at times can be elusive to your baby. The least you can do is ensure that they are comfortable during their sleep time. The Nintara Baby recognises that sentiment. Check out our best collection of safe and stylish sleeping bags. We are very sure you won’t be disappointed!
