How Should A Sleep Sack Fit?

When it comes to baby sleep sacks – even weighted baby sleep sacks – they are a fave on baby registries everywhere! Why? Because they’re easy to use, help to reduce the risks of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and give your little one a sense of comfort while they sleep. Essentially, a sleep sack is a wearable blanket that helps to regulate baby’s temperature without the need for anything extra in their crib. This means that sleep sacks align with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines when it comes to safe sleep as they require nothing extra in baby’s sleep space - no pillows, no sheets, no blankets at all, ever. Just baby, in her sleep sack, nice and snuggly and perfectly content!

The weight of a sleep sack – also known as a TOG rating – indicates the warmth of the sleep sack. The higher the rating, the warmer the sack. Most manufacturers offer TOG recommendations to easily determine which tog makes sense for you, taking into consideration climate and room temperature. Sleep sacks are also a great indicator (or sleep cue) that it’s time for sleep! They can be used for naps and bedtimes and are a great part of your sleep time routine.

If you still have questions about the best baby sleep sacks, keep reading! We answer some here:

How should a sleep sack fit?

The most important thing to remember when it comes to how should a baby sleep sack fit, is that it not be too loose, particularly around the neckline and arm holes. A sleep sack should fit snug otherwise baby could get lost in it as they wiggle. This could cause it to cover their mouth and nose which could be a hazard. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines which typically go by weight and height as opposed to age.

As your baby grows into toddlerhood, sleep sacks are still considered a safe and practical option.

How does baby sleep sack sizing work?

Each manufacturer comes with their own guidelines regarding sizing and typically go by weight and height as opposed to age. That’s because even with baby milestones, every baby grows at their own rate. Most sleep sacks are true to size so be sure to read their recommendations before purchasing.

Should a weighted sleep sack fit differently than a regular sleep sack?

Weighted sleep sacks have a similar design as a regular sleep sack except that the added weight has added benefits! The Dreamland Baby sleep sack is designed to help baby feel calm, fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The gentle weight provides a soothing, deep-touch pressure that feels like the gentle hug of a parent.

Keep in mind, weighted sleep sacks are considered safe as long as the weight of the sleep sack is no more than 10% of your baby’s body weight. So a 10-pound baby should wear a sleep sack weighing no more than one pound. A 20- pound baby should wear a sleep sack no more than 2 pounds, and so on.

Dreamland Baby sizing is as follows:

0-6 months are indicated for infants 8 lbs and up (contains 0.8 lbs of beads)
6-12 months is indicated for infants 15 lbs and up (contains 1.5 lbs of beads)
Perfect for your baby who is learning to sleep in longer stretches for both naps and nighttime sleep

What do babies wear under a sleep sack?

When it comes to dressing baby, the general rule of thumb is to put them in one extra layer than what you might be comfortable in. Same goes for sleep-time. Because sleep sacks help to regulate baby’s body temperature, a lightweight onesie should do the trick when it comes to what baby should wear underneath his sleep sack. In the winter months, a long sleeve onesie may be preferred.

Keep in mind that while your baby’s hands may feel cold at night, that’s not an accurate measure of his temperature. It’s best to check his back or tummy and adjust accordingly, when needed.

The TOG rating can also help you determine what baby should wear underneath her sleep sack.

How long do babies wear sleep sacks?

Some babies love their sleep sacks and want them well into toddlerhood! It’s a personal choice, for sure, but once baby starts to crawl and explore their surroundings, or becomes an escape artist, it may be time to retire it. When sleep “training,” it’s a good idea to change baby into play clothes when waking up from a nap or nighttime slumber as this helps to establish sleep cues that will help your baby understand when it’s time for play or sleep!

Should a sleep sack have room for the baby to grow into?

A sleep sack should fit baby at her current weight and size. If it’s too big, there’s potential for extra material to bunch up around her face which can be hazardous. If however, there is some extra room in the foot area, that shouldn’t be an issue. Still, it’s best to follow manufacturers guidelines for any sleep sack purchase you make.

How do I know if my baby's sleep sack fits?

When it comes to wearable blankets, it’s important to follow manufacturer’s recommendations which typically go by weight and height. You don’t want the arms to be so big that baby’s arms and hands can get inside the sleep sack. Same goes for the neckline, you don’t want baby’s head to slip through or for there to be extra material that could end up around her nose and mouth. This said, baby should be comfortable – trust your parental instincts and always follow manufacturer guidelines!

What happens if a sleep sack is too big or too small?

You’ll want to put your baby in a sleep sack that fits them based on their weight and height. While baby will be growing, especially during that first year, most companies offer sizing guidelines on their websites and in their packaging. Take their recommendations – they’re there for a reason!

How can I get the right size sleep sack for my baby?

With so many options on the market for sleep sacks for baby, you’ll have plenty of choices! Just remember, when it comes to sizing, it’s typically done by weight and height, not age! So follow manufacturer guidelines. They’re usually on their websites and packaging… but if you’re still concerned, ask! Most sleep sack companies have FAQs on their websites or ways for you to contact them – they’ll be happy to hear from you, and you’ll be glad you asked!

What is the best baby sleep sack?

When it comes to most things baby-related, the options are a-plenty! There are lots of sleep sacks on the market with different kinds of fabrics, colors and styles.

While every baby is different, the Dreamland Baby weighted sleep sacks work for infants who like the sensation of feeling touched. Weighted sleep sacks are good for baby because they help them feel secure and “held” - like a hug - which can also help calm a fussy baby.

If you’re still curious about the benefits of the Dreamland Baby Weighted Sleep Sack some are listed here:

Relaxes and induces sleep
Naturally reduces stress and anxiety
100% soft, natural cotton for comfort
Bottom zipper for easy diaper change
Perfect for learning to sleep in longer stretches
100% safe for babies
Natural and toxic-free materials
Exceeded all United States Consumer Product Safety Commission standards
Designed in partnership with Pediatricians, Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) nurses and Certified Sleep Consultants