Getting your baby to sleep warmly and comfortably becomes quite hard if they keep kicking their blanket off at night. You can choose the right sleep sack by ensuring it's warm, breathable, and soft for their tender skin.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, around 3,500 infants die from sleep-related causes, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), each year in the US alone. It's a heartbreaking statistic that shows us the importance of safe sleep practices.
If your baby wears something as simple as a sleep sack, you can reduce these risks.
What Is the Purpose of Sleep Sacks?
A sleep sack is what you need to keep your baby snuggly and safe as they sleep without exposing them to the risks associated with a loose blanket. Even if your baby wiggles at night, they'll stay tucked in because sleep sacks come with zips and they offer year-round coziness.
Your child's body isn't able to regulate temperatures the same way yours does when feeling hot or cold. Enhancing baby sleep comfort is one of the main purposes of a sleep sack. Since it doesn't wrap around their body tightly, they're less likely to feel too hot.
Children learn routines when their parents or caregivers are consistent each night. Every time you take out a sleep sack, it won't just be about bedtime safety. Your baby learns when it's time to wind down, which helps them have a calmer night.
Why Do Kids Like Sleep Sacks?
Sleep sacks feel like a warm, cozy blanket that wraps around your baby with just enough pressure. The gentleness around the snugness gives them more comfort and security.
When a baby is in a sleep sack, it feels similar to being swaddled, but they have more room to move. Your toddler can kick and roll all night without feeling cold, which makes them less likely to lose their sleep.
Tips for Selecting the Right Sleep Sack for Your Baby
Two things should be on your mind when choosing the best baby sleepwear for every season. The temperature in your child's room and the type of fabric used to make a wearable blanket.
Pick Something Light and Breathable for Spring
Spring weather changes a lot because one night can be cool and the next one can be warm, like most Seattle summer nights. A warm sleep sack that's also breathable is good for the season.
Bamboo is one of the best materials for a seasonal sleep sack because it's temperature-regulating. You won't find your baby cold or sweating a lot in the middle of the night. Cotton muslin is also a good choice.
You may love 100% organic bamboo sleep sacks because they're hypoallergenic, meaning they won't irritate your baby's sensitive skin.
Keep It Cool During Summer
The main thing you need to worry about when buying a sleep sack for your baby to use during the summer is overheating. Temperatures can sometimes rise throughout the night and make them feel uncomfortable.
A light or mid-warm sleep sack will be good enough for maximum comfort. Bamboo ones that also use the same material for filling are great, but you can also go for lightweight cotton. The advantages are:
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps your baby dry
- It prevents your baby from feeling sticky
- Bamboo and cotton allow air to flow freely
If you choose a sleeveless design, your baby will stay cool, and they can even wear a long-sleeved onesie underneath.
Add Warmth Gradually During Fall
After a warm summer, nights begin cooling down in the fall. Sleep sacks made of thicker bamboo blends will be helpful.
You can ask your pediatrician for an infant sleep guide, but always observe your baby to know if you need to start layering. A loose pair of pajamas works underneath a mid-weight sleep sack and will keep them warm all night without overheating.
Focus on Warmth and Safety During Winter
Multi-layer bamboo sleep sacks or those made of warm materials like merino wool and fleece are great for winter. The nights can get quite cold and long during this season.
Avoid putting your baby with a loose blanket in their crib. It's better to layer clothes underneath than risk their safety. A footed pajama and a cotton onesie can provide them with extra warmth, helping you skip the extra blanket.
Prioritize Year-Round Solutions
Switching pajamas each season may sometimes be a lot. You can try all-season sleep sacks. Bamboo is versatile, and if you get a warm one, you may use it throughout the year.
Adjusting the pajamas underneath is all you need to do as the seasons change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Newborns Use Sleep Sacks?
Yes. Newborns need to feel snug, but they also benefit from some movement. You can get your baby a sleep sack made for newborns and ensure it doesn't have a lot of extra fabric that may bunch near their face.
How Many Sleep Sacks Do I Need?
Two or three. If you get all-season sleep sacks, you don't need many of them. A few pieces will let you alternate between washes, ensuring you won't have to worry during bedtime when you haven't done laundry.
Are Sleep Sacks Safe for Rolling Babies?
Absolutely. Always ensure the sleep sack you choose for them has open sleeves and enough space at the bottom for free movement.
Continuing with traditional swaddling isn't ideal when your baby is already rolling. Consider transitioning to a sleep sack when they reach that milestone. You'll keep your child safe while ensuring they are able to move around.
Let Your Baby Stay Warm and Comfortable Year-Round
You don't need to follow the latest trend among moms when choosing a sleep sack for your baby. Focusing on their comfort and safety is crucial as they grow.
A good sleep sack for any season should wick away their sweat and be breathable enough to ensure they don't get too hot. Organic bamboo is often a great choice since it's a high-quality fabric that's also gentle on the tender skin.
You'll discover that your baby sleeps soundly in a sleep sack, and you won't stay up worrying all night.
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