What is a baby sleeping bag?
A baby sleeping bag is a wearable blanket designed to keep babies warm and safe during sleep. Unlike loose blankets, they zip around the baby and come in TOG ratings to suit different room temperatures. Sleeping bags promote safer sleep, better sleep quality, and help regulate a baby's temperature.
What Is a Baby Sleeping Bag Used For?
As a new or expectant parent, you've probably come across the term "baby sleeping bag" — but what exactly is it, and why is it recommended by sleep experts and safety organisations alike?
In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about baby sleeping bags, from their benefits to how to choose the right one for your baby's age, size and season.
Baby Sleeping Bag Defined
A baby sleeping bag is a wearable blanket designed to keep your baby warm and safe while they sleep. Unlike loose blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk, sleeping bags are worn like clothing and zip up securely around your baby's body.
Sleeping bags come in various sizes and weights (known as TOG ratings) to suit different ages, climates, and sleeping environments.
Benefits of Using a Baby Sleeping Bag
Here are some of the top benefits of using a baby sleeping bag:
1. Promotes Safer Sleep
- Reduces the risk of blanket suffocation and entanglement
- Helps keep your baby on their back, reducing the risk of SIDS.
2. Improves Sleep Quality
- Prevents babies from waking due to being cold after kicking off their sheets and blankets.
- Creates a consistent, comforting sleep cue over time.
3. Maintains Optimal Temperature
- TOG-rated sleeping bags help regulate body temperature. You might like to read our blog Is My Baby Too Hot or Cold for Sleep to find out more about how babies regulate their body temperature.
- Eliminates the need for multiple layers of bedding.
4. Supports Sleep Routine
- Becomes a familiar signal for bedtime, aiding in sleep associations. Bedtime routines help your baby to feel safe and we've written about Bedtime Routines for Baby.
How is a Baby Sleeping Bag Different from a Swaddle?
Swaddles are typically used for newborns to limit their startle reflex, wrapping them snugly with arms inside. Baby sleeping bags, on the other hand, are designed for older babies who have outgrown swaddling or who need freedom of movement, especially once they can roll.
👶 Transitioning tip: Use a transitional swaddle like the Joey Pod Swaddle Bag to gradually move from swaddle to sleeping bag. Refer to our comprehensive blog on Transitioning Your Baby Out of Swaddling.
What Size Baby Sleeping Bag Do I Need?
Choosing the correct size is important for both comfort and safety. Sizes are usually based on age and weight. A good fit ensures:
- The neck opening isn't too wide (to prevent slipping down).
- The armholes allow for free movement but aren't oversized.
- The length provides room to grow without excess fabric bunching up.
Bubbaroo sleeping bags come in thoughtfully designed sizes from newborn to toddler, allowing for hip-healthy movement and maximum comfort. See our full-size guide as follows:
| Little Baby Joey | Older Baby Joey | Toddler Joey | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 0 to 6 months* | 6 - 18 months | 18 - 36 months |
| Weight | min. weight: 4kg (8LBS) | min. weight: 8.1 kg (18 LBS) | min. weight: 11.4 kg (25 LBS) |
| Baby Sleeping Bag Back Length |
80cm (31.5") | 97cm (38.19") | 114cm (44.9") |
| Neck Opening as specified in BS 8510 Safety of Children's Sleep Bag |
280mm to 320mm | 355mm to 395mm | 355mm to 395mm |
Understanding TOG Ratings
A TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) measures a fabric's thermal insulation. It helps you choose the right sleeping bag for the room temperature.
Bubbaroo Platinum Joey Swag Baby Sleeping Bags are available in 3 x TOG ratings, as follows:
2.5 TOG All year round - Ideal for Autumn, Winter and cooler Spring days for rooms of 10-20°C (50-68°F)
1.5 TOG Summer and daytime naps - Versatile - for warmer weather and in rooms of 20-23°C (69-74°F)
0.5 TOG Summer - Hot weather and very warm rooms of 24-27°C (75-81°F)
The table below provides a guide to what TOG/weight Joey Swag® can be used and suggestions of the clothing baby can wear with their Joey Swag®. Once asleep, check baby's temperature by placing a hand on baby's chest to ensure baby is comfortably warm and not too hot.
| TOG Rating | Room Temperature | Usage | Suggested Clothing |
| 0.5 TOG | 24°C + | Summer/Hot climates | Singlet or short body suit |
| 1.5 TOG | 20–23°C | Spring/Autumn | Short body suit or Long body suit or romper/onesie |
| 2.5 TOG | Under 20°C | Winter/Cold nights | Long body suit or romper/onesie and Singlet and Pyjama top |
Pro Tip: Use a room thermometer and dress your baby in lightweight clothing under their sleeping bag based on the TOG.
What to Look for in a Quality Baby Sleeping Bag
- Natural fibres like organic cotton and wool for breathability.
- Eco Friendly 100% natural and free from harmful chemicals.
- Certified safety compliance (e.g., AS/NZS 1249:2014).
- Bell-shaped design for healthy hip development.
- Two-way zipper for easy night-time nappy changes.
- Machine washable.
Bubbaroo's Joey Swag Baby Sleeping Bags are expertly crafted to meet all these needs — combining functionality, comfort, and style.
FAQs
Can a baby roll in a sleeping bag?
Yes — unlike swaddles, sleeping bags allow for safe rolling. Once your baby starts to roll, swaddling should stop, and a sleeping bag becomes the ideal next step. This is why it's ideal to transition your baby out of swaddling when you notice signs that your baby needs to stop being swaddled as detailed in our blog Transitioning Baby Out of Swaddling.
When should I stop using a baby sleeping bag?
Most parents use sleeping bags until 2–3 years of age. After that, toddlers may transition into a "big bed" with sheets and doona, duvet or blanket (refer to our blog Tips for Moving Your Child from Cot to Bed).
Are baby sleeping bags safe for newborns?
Yes, if they fit correctly and meet safety standards. Newborn sleeping bags should be snug around the chest and arms, with no excess material near the face.
Final Thoughts
A baby sleeping bag is one of the simplest and safest ways to help your baby (and the whole family) sleep better. By choosing the right size, TOG rating, and features, you can ensure your little one is warm, secure, and comfortable every sleep.
Explore Bubbaroo's full range of baby sleeping bags and transitional swaddles to find the perfect fit for your baby.