We all understand the importance of sleeping well and sleeping enough. Sleep affects our health, mood, growth and development. So for babies who are still actively growing and developing, a good night’s sleep is a must.
Since newborns spend most of their time sleeping, all parents wish to create the perfect sleep environment for their little ones. That’s why sleep sacks are a must-have on your baby essentials list! With the multiple benefits these cosy sleeping bags provide, your baby can enjoy a good night’s sleep, and so can you!
What is a Sleep Sack?
Sleep sacks are essentially baby sleeping bags. They are sleeveless, wearable blankets that are designed to zip up over your baby’s pyjamas. Sleep sacks keep babies warm and cosy when they sleep without the risk of overheating or suffocation from loose blankets. Nintara Baby’s Sleep Sacks come with a 0.5 and 1.5 TOG rating, perfect to keep your baby snug at different temperatures.
When to Use Sleep Sacks
Most parents prefer to begin with swaddling their baby in blankets or swaddle wraps before they make the transition to sleep sacks. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, parents should transition their kids out of a swaddle as soon as your baby shows signs of attempting to roll over. This typically occurs around 3-4 months of age, but in some cases, it could even be earlier.
Sleep sacks are an excellent progression. They ensure your baby stays comfortable and warm without having to use a sheet or blanket. In fact, using loose bedding is not recommended for babies under 12 months of age as they pose serious suffocation risks.
When to Stop Using Sleep Sacks
Most parents find themselves in a fix about when to stop using a sleep sack and switch to a blanket. Just as it's important to know when to start using a sleep sack, it's also important to know when to discontinue using one. There is no fixed age to stop using baby sleeping bags, though most children naturally show signs of transitioning out of one when they are ready.
Here are some aspects you should consider as you decide when to stop using baby sleep sacks:
Increased Mobility: As babies grow older, they become more mobile and may find a sleep sack too restrictive. They would then prefer the freedom of movement that comes with blankets or pyjamas.
Active Resistance: Some babies naturally start showing resistance to wearing a sleep sack. If they consistently express their discomfort by fussing during bedtime or trying to kick the sleep sack off, it may be a sign that they are ready to switch to blankets or alternative bedding options.
Outgrowing Available Sizes: While sleep sacks come in various sizes, some toddlers may eventually outgrow them. They don't find enough room to kick and move freely in them anymore. Usually, children grow out of traditional sleep sacks around 2 years of age. So when your child grows out of the largest size, it may be time to transition to a toddler blanket or sleepwear.
Sizing Tips by Age
Selecting the correct sleep sack size for your baby is an important decision as it affects both their safety and their comfort. An oversized sleep sack can pose the danger of suffocation, and one that's too small can restrict natural movement and development.
That’s why, it’s important to keep some guidelines in mind while selecting a sleep sack for your baby:
-
Choose the appropriate size for your baby based on the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
-
The sleep sack must fit snugly around the chest and neck without being too tight. The armholes should be the right size to allow freedom of movement, yet prevent the baby from slipping inside the sack.
-
There should be ample space for hip and leg movement to allow for proper hip development.
-
Consider the temperature of the baby’s surroundings while choosing the appropriate weight and TOG rating.
To make it easier, you could refer to this general sleep sack sizing guideline based on age, height and weight:
|
Age |
Height |
Weight |
|
0-3 months (newborns) |
3-6 kg |
19-23 inches (48-58 cm) |
|
3-6 months |
6-8 kg |
23-26 inches (58-66 cm) |
|
6-12 months |
7-11 kg |
26-30 inches (66-76 cm) |
|
12-18 months |
10-13 kg |
30-35 inches (76-89 cm) |
|
18-24+ months |
12-16 kg |
35+ inches (89+ cm) |
Sleep sacks are the perfect companion for your little angel’s bedtime experience. Knowing when to start, when to transition, and how to choose the right size will ensure your baby’s comfort and safety and your peace of mind. Wrap your little one into a homely embrace with high-quality baby sleep sacks by Nintara Baby, made with 100% organic cotton, as you watch them drift into a serene, soothing sleep.
