Everything You Need to Know About Swaddles & Sleep Sacks

One thing you need to know about me:

I am PASSIONATE about sleep sacks! I think they are one of the best things to ever happen to babies. They keep your baby warm, safe and comfortable.

Warm-but not overheated, safe, and comfortable babies are babies who sleep!

However, there’s a lot out there. When should you transition to a sleep sack, versus using a swaddle? What brands should I use? How do I know if my baby is too warm?

Let’s dive into it, but a note first.

*Please note all of these recommendations are based on my personal experience, I am not affiliated with these brands. Do not use anything that is unsafe or you are not sure of. Please always follow safe sleep guidelines and place your baby on their back to sleep, with NO blankets, loose bedding, comforters, bumpers or stuffed toys.

When should I move to a sleep sack? 

Swaddles are great for newborns. It keeps them tight and cozy, almost in a womb-like environment. 

Once your baby shows signs of rolling over, you need to move into a sleep sack. This is incredibly important for your babies safety. 

If they roll over in a swaddle, they are on their tummies with no way holding their heads up. This puts them at an increased risk. I cannot stress this enough...for your baby’s safety:  

NO SWADDLES FOR BABIES THAT MAY ROLL OVER! 

That can be as early as eight weeks, but definitely, by 4 months you’re going to want to make that transition. 

What are the benefits of a sleep sack?

Sleep sacks are amazing for your baby and even your toddler! Here are just some of the benefits: 

  1. It keeps your baby at the right temperature

  2. It discourages crawling or climbing out of the crib

  3. It provides comfort and can become a great sleep association

  4. They are MUCH safer than blankets - you should not have a loose blanket for any baby under two years old. 

  5. Some transition sleep sacks are great for that transition period (4-6 months) where they will keep your baby’s arms loose, but prevent them from waking up because of their startle reflex.

Sleep Sacks and Body Temperature

There are different sleep sacks for different times of the year. For example, grobag makes one that is perfect for summer days. Others are heavier and perfect for those cold winter nights. 

A question that I often get is “How do I know if my baby is too warm?” What you want to do is feel the back of their neck - if it’s sweaty, then your baby is probably overdressed.

What to consider when buying a sleep sack? 

My big three things to consider when buying a sleep sack: safety, your baby’s age, and comfort. Below are some good sleep sacks to consider:

Transitioning to a Sleep Sack (4-6 months)

Zipadee-Zip, Merlins Magic Sleepsuit

Sleep Sacks (4 months to 4 years old)

Aden&Anais, Gro Bag, Woolino, Kyte Baby, Nested Bean, Gunapod

However, the Lily Award for Best Swaddle / Sleep Sack goes to…(drum roll)...HALO Sleep Sack.

It’s my favourite because it’s all-in-one. It transitions from a swaddle to a sleep sack. It’s also affordable, has an easy zipper for diaper changes, and is made with light cotton so your baby does not overheat.

 
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