A Parent’s Guide to Baby & Kids’ Sleeping Bags: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever wrestled with a wriggly baby in the middle of the night trying to keep their blankets on, you’ll understand why sleeping bags are a game-changer. They keep little ones cosy, safe and snug while they sleep — no kicking off covers, no tangled sheets, just peaceful slumber (well, in theory!).

But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? Here’s what you need to know when buying a sleeping bag for your baby or child.

1. Pick the Right TOG Rating

TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) is a fancy way of measuring how warm a sleeping bag is. The higher the TOG, the warmer the bag. Here’s a rough guide:

• 0.2 – 0.5 TOG: Best for summer and hot nights.

• 1.0 TOG: Great for mild weather or room temps around 21–24°C.

• 2.5 TOG: Perfect for cooler nights and room temps around 16–20°C.

• 3.5 TOG: Super warm for winter and chillier rooms below 16°C.

Always check the temperature of your child’s room and dress them accordingly underneath the sleeping bag. A singlet and nappy might be fine for summer, while a full onesie works better in winter.

2. Choose the Right Size

Sleeping bags come in different sizes based on age and weight, so always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. A bag that’s too big can bunch up and be unsafe, while one that’s too small will be uncomfortable. Some brands have adjustable lengths, which can be handy as your little one grows.

3. Look for Safe, Baby-Friendly Materials

Natural fibres like organic cotton and bamboo are breathable, soft, and gentle on delicate skin. They also help regulate body temperature, reducing the risk of overheating. Avoid anything with bulky padding or synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe well.

4. Make Sure It’s Safe

A good sleeping bag should have:
✔ A snug fit around the neck and armholes (so bub can’t slip down inside).
✔ No hood — babies don’t need them for sleep.
✔ A two-way zipper (makes those late-night nappy changes easier!)
✔ Meets Australian safety standards (check labels and product details).

5. Transitioning from a Swaddle to a Sleeping Bag

If your baby has been swaddled but is starting to roll, it’s time to move to a sleeping bag. Some styles have press-stud sleeves or zip-off arms to help with the transition.

6. When to Stop Using a Sleeping Bag

Most toddlers can keep using a sleeping bag until they move to a big bed. Some kids love them well into preschool age, as they still provide warmth and security. There are even footed sleeping bags for little ones who like to walk around before bedtime or climb out of bed themselves in the morning!

Final Thoughts

Sleeping bags are one of the best investments you can make for your baby’s sleep routine. Choose the right TOG, size, and fabric, and you’ll have a happy, comfy sleeper. (Now, if only we could guarantee they’d actually stay asleep all night!)

Looking for affordable baby sleeping bags? Check out our range of quality, preloved sleeping bags at Daisy Chain Clothing — helping parents save money and reduce waste, one cosy sleep at a time!