When it comes to helping your baby sleep safely and soundly, there’s no shortage of options—and two of the most popular choices are baby swaddles and baby sleeping bags. But what exactly are they? How do they differ? How do you know which one to use and when?
Let’s take the guesswork out of your baby’s bedtime routine and explore the cosy world of swaddles and sleeping bags.
What Is a Swaddle?
A swaddle is a method of wrapping a baby in a soft fabric or specially designed wrap, mimicking the snugness of the womb to help newborns feel secure and calm. It can help newborns settle and sleep more comfortably, especially during the first few months. Swaddling keeps your baby’s arms gently tucked in, helping to prevent the startle reflex, which can wake babies unexpectedly.
Types of Swaddles
- Traditional wraps - Large muslin or cotton blankets that are folded and wrapped by hand.
- Structured swaddles – Feature Velcro, zippers, or snaps to make swaddling quicker and easier.
When to Use Swaddles
Baby swaddles are best suited for newborns and young infants, starting from birth, during the Fourth Trimester. Swaddling should be discontinued around 8-12 weeks of age, or as soon as your baby starts to show signs of rolling over.
What Is a Baby Sleeping Bag?
A baby sleeping bag is a wearable blanket with armholes and a fitted neck, designed as a safe and comfortable alternative to loose blankets for babies during sleep. Sleeping bags for newborns promotes safe sleep by reducing the risk of suffocation or entanglement and keeps the baby at a consistent temperature.
TOG Ratings and Temperature
TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) ratings help parents choose the right sleeping bag based on room temperature, ensuring baby’s comfort and safety throughout the night. Here at Bubbaroo we offer the following TOG rating choices for organic cotton baby sleeping bags:
- 0.5 TOG Sleeping Bag: Lightweight for warm summer nights when the room temperature is 24– 27°C.
- 1.5 TOG Sleeping Bag: Mid-weight for mild weather and in rooms of 20–23°C.
- 2.5 TOG Sleeping Bag: Cosy and warm for cooler temperatures of 10–20°C.
The 1.5 TOG and 2.5 TOG Sleeping bags are padded with Australian Merino Wool to provide safer and comfortable sleeping solution for newborn.
What to Wear Under Each TOG Rating Sleeping Bag
Choosing the right sleepwear under your baby’s sleeping bag is just as important as choosing the right TOG rating. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide what to wear under a 0.5, 1.5 or 2.5 tog sleeping bag, depending on the room temperature.
0.5 TOG Sleeping Bag (Room temp: 24–27°C)
Best for hot summer nights.
Suggested sleepwear: A sleeveless bodysuit or singlet.
1.5 TOG Sleeping Bag (Room temp: 20–23°C)
Ideal for spring and autumn or warmer rooms. If you’re wondering what to wear under a 1.5 tog sleeping bag, here's a simple breakdown based on room temperature:
23°C: Short-sleeved bodysuit or singlet.
21–22°C: Long-sleeved bodysuit.
20°C: Short-sleeved bodysuit and Long pyjama top.
2.5 TOG Sleeping Bag (Room temp: 10–20°C)
Perfect for cooler rooms and winter nights. Suggested sleepwear:
20°C: Long-sleeved bodysuit.
Under 20°C: Onesie.
Under 18°C: Onesie and Singlet or Long pyjamas and Singlet.
Under 14°C: Onesie and Long-sleeved bodysuit or Onesie and Long pyjama top.
Once asleep, check baby’s temperature by placing a hand on baby’s chest to ensure they’re comfortably warm and not too hot. Your babies’ hands and feet are often too cold and are not indicative of your baby's core temperature.
When to Use Baby Sleeping Bags
Baby sleeping bags are perfect for babies from around 3 months and up, and many styles are available all the way through toddlerhood. You can also use a Bubbaroo baby sleeping bag which is one of the best and safe baby sleeping bags in Australia from 4kg if your little one doesn't appear to like being swaddled.
For further information about sleeping bags refer to our blog on What is a Baby Sleeping Bag?
Baby Swaddle vs Baby Sleeping Bag: Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Swaddle | Baby Sleeping Bag |
| Best for | Newborns | 3+ months old |
| Arm Position | Arms tucked in | Arms free |
|
Movement |
Restricts movement | Allows freedom to move |
| Purpose | Mimics womb, reduces startle reflex | Maintains consistent warmth safely |
| Safety Note | Stop once baby rolls | Designed for safe sleep from the get go and especially once rolling |
When and How to Transition
You will know it’s time to transition from swaddling to a sleeping bag when:
- Your baby starts to roll over
- They are breaking out of the swaddle regularly
- They seem frustrated by restricted movement
Transitioning can be made easier by using a transitional baby swaddle with arms-out options, or by moving to a baby sleeping bag with a similar feel or fabric weight. You can start by gradually introducing one arm out of the baby swaddle for a few nights, then progress to both arms out before fully transitioning to the baby sleeping bag. Pay close attention to your baby’s cues and adjust the pace of the transition accordingly.
We recommend using a transitional baby swaddle like the Joey Pod Transitional Swaddle Bag to gradually move from swaddle to sleeping bag. Refer to our blog for further information on Transitioning Your Baby Out of Swaddling.
Strengths & Weaknesses of Baby Swaddles and Baby Sleeping Bags
Baby Swaddles
Strengths
- Helps newborns sleep better by calming their startle reflex.
- Creates a womb-like calming effect, promoting comfort and security.
- Suitable for very young babies who haven't started rolling over.
Weaknesses
- Increased risk of suffocation or SIDS if used after the baby starts rolling, as swaddles may prevent babies from rolling back onto their backs. Do not swaddle your baby once they show signs of rolling.
- Can require a bit of practice to wrap properly.
- Risk of overheating if the baby is dressed too warmly or the room is too hot.
Baby Sleeping Bags
Strengths
- Safe sleep environment for rolling babies and toddlers, reducing the risk of SIDS.
- Allows more movement.
- Keeps the baby warm without loose blankets, preventing loose blankets from covering their face.
- An effective sleep aid - in time your little one will come to identify it's time to sleep when they see their baby sleeping bag.
- Prevents baby's legs becoming caught in the cot bars.
- Easy to use with zippers or snaps, allowing for easier nappy changes.
Weaknesses
- May take time for the baby to adjust after the swaddling phase.
- May not suit all babies, especially those who prefer unrestricted movement while sleeping.
Choosing the Right Sleepwear for Your Baby
When deciding between a baby swaddle and a baby sleeping bag, consider your baby’s:
- Age and development
- Temperature needs (TOG rating)
- Sleep style and preferences
Swaddling is often preferred for newborns, as it simulates the snugness of the womb and helps promote better sleep. Swaddling should be discontinued once a baby starts rolling. Sleeping bags, which allow for more movement, are a safer alternative for older babies and toddlers. Always follow safe sleep guidelines, including placing your baby on their back to sleep as a newborn and keep the cot free of toys and loose bedding.
Summary
- Baby swaddles are best for newborns up to 8-12 weeks to reduce the startle reflex.
- Baby sleeping bags are ideal from 3 months +, supporting safe sleep for rolling babies and toddlers.
- Choose based on baby’s age, sleeping habits, and room temperature (TOG ratings).
Final Thoughts
Whether you start with a soft baby swaddle to soothe your newborn or move straight to a safe and cosy baby sleeping bag, both products are designed to help your little one sleep soundly and safely.
As your baby grows, their sleepwear should grow with them, supporting every stage from a snuggly newborn to an adventurous toddler. Whatever you choose, the goal is the same: a well-rested, happy baby (and hopefully, well-rested parents too!).