What is a Tog Rated Sleeping Bag?
A tog rated sleeping bag, also known as a wearable blanket or sleep sack, is a type of baby sleepwear designed to keep infants and newborns warm and safe during sleep. The “tog” rating refers to the thermal resistance of the sleeping bag, indicating its warmth and how suitable it is for different room temperatures. Tog values typically range from 0.5 (lightweight, for warmer conditions) to 3.5 (heavier, for colder environments).
Why is it Used?
Sleeping bags are used for infants because they can help maintain a safe body temperature throughout the night. Unlike traditional blankets, which can pose risks of suffocation, strangulation, or overheating, tog rated sleeping bags are designed to stay securely in place. They allow babies to move freely without the risk of the fabric covering their faces or causing them to become too hot or too cold.
The use of tog rated sleeping bags is also associated with a reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends wearable blankets as a safer alternative to loose bedding in an infant’s sleep environment[2][8][14].
Recommended Materials
When selecting a tog rated sleeping bag, it is crucial to choose one made from breathable materials to prevent overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS. Commonly recommended materials include:
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric that is gentle on a baby’s skin. It is often used for sleep sacks suitable for moderate to warm temperatures[1][4][6].
- Merino Wool: Merino wool is known for its temperature-regulating properties. It can keep babies warm in cold conditions without causing overheating. It is often used in higher tog rated sleeping bags for cooler climates[10][13].
- Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is soft, moisture-wicking, and has natural temperature-regulating qualities. It is suitable for sleep sacks designed for all seasons[7][11].
Recommended Products
It is currently warm in Australia and I have personally purchased an “ergoPouch Organic Cotton Jersey Sleeping Bag” from Amazon. It is great for my infant to wear during nap or night time sleep as it is generally hot at the moment.
Conclusion
Tog rated sleeping bags are an essential part of a safe infant sleep environment. They provide warmth without the risks associated with loose bedding and are a key preventive measure against SIDS. When choosing a sleeping bag, parents should consider the tog rating appropriate for their home’s ambient temperature and select a material that offers breathability and comfort for their child. It is also important to ensure that the sleeping bag fits well, with a snug neck opening and no hood, to prevent the baby from slipping inside the bag[18]. By adhering to these guidelines, parents can help ensure their infant has a safe and comfortable sleep.
Citations:
[1] https://haileyoutside.com/the-best-baby-and-toddler-sleeping-bag-for-camping-with-kids/
[2] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sleep-sack-safety
[3] https://www.halosleep.com/blog/post/using-a-sleep-sack-when-to-start-when-to-stop
[4] https://people.com/best-sleep-sacks-7106156
[5] https://www.ncmd.info/safety/safety-notice-baby-sleeping-bags/
[6] https://www.motherandbaby.com/baby/sleep/baby-sleeping-bag-guide/
[7] https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/best-sleep-sacks-rcna143196
[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30297442/
[9] https://www.woolino.com/blogs/blog/when-to-use-a-sleep-sack
[10] https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-sleep-sacks
[11] https://kytebaby.com/blogs/news/are-infant-sleep-sacks-safe
[12] https://huckleberrycare.com/blog/sleep-sacks-why-when-how-long-to-use-and-sizing-tips-by-age
[13] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-sleep-sacks/?sh=6f4231336458
[14] https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/baby/baby-basics/newborn-and-baby-sleeping-advice-for-parents/safe-sleep-advice-for-babies/
[15] https://www.todaysparent.com/shopping/best-baby-sleep-sacks/
[16] https://gunamuna.com/pages/sleep-sack-safety
[17] https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/sleep/best-sleep-sacks/
[18] https://rednose.org.au/article/what-is-a-safe-sleeping-bag
[19] https://takingcarababies.com/sleep-sacks
[20] https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a1053601/sleep-safety-for-newborns
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