Swaddles vs Sleep Sack: When & How to Use
I get a lot of questions about swaddles vs sleep sacks. And honestly, even if you’re not a first-time parent, it can be confusing to know what the difference between the two is, and when to use each one.
Also, there are so many different kinds of swaddles and an equally shocking number of different sleep sacks. Really, how can having a baby be so confusing?! Can’t we just make sure they are clothed enough to be warm, stick them in a safe sleep space (which is more than we can say for what was done 100 years ago), and just be done with it!?
You could.
However, after working with thousands of babies, I have seen firsthand the benefits of swaddles and sleep sacks. They truly do make a difference in baby sleep, and they are much safer than using a blanket to keep your little one warm. Once you understand the difference between swaddles and sleep sacks, and know when and how to use each one, using them will be as second nature as putting on a bib before each meal. Or socks before shoes. Or those little scratch mitts before a car ride. Actually, scrap that, no one ever uses those.
In this blog, I will cover:
What is the difference between swaddles vs sleep sack?
Why should I use a swaddle?
Why should I use a sleep sack?
Are sleep sacks safe for newborns?
Do I use a swaddle or a sleep sack?
When and how to transition from a swaddle to a sleep sack
How to transition out of a sleep sack
What is the difference between swaddles vs sleep sack?
Swaddles vs sleep sack; what are they and which is best? There are so many different kinds of each one out there on the market, and it’s really not clear what the difference is. So let me break it down for you.
Swaddles
Swaddling is when you wrap your baby up so they are warm, snug, and feel like they’re back in the womb. Swaddling is done by either using swaddle blankets, or many different companies make swaddles that are secured using Velcro.
Usually you swaddle a baby so the baby’s arms are at their sides as this helps with their Moro reflex (more on this later). Once it is time to start thinking about transitioning out of a swaddle, you can swaddle with one or two arms out (this way your baby can begin to learn to self-soothe with their hands).
You can swaddle a baby from the time they are born until they begin to roll. We don’t want to be swaddling babies once they can roll as it would be a suffocation risk; if they rolled to their stomach when swaddled, they may get trapped faced down. The AAP says that swaddling is safe as long as it is done correctly. This means that we want to make sure that whatever type of swaddle is being used, it can’t come loose and cover baby’s face. Also, we want to swaddle babies nice and snug, but not too snug that it restricts hip movement.
Want to know how to swaddle a baby using a swaddle blanket? Check out my swaddle tutorial here!
Sleep Sacks
Sleep sacks are like a sleeping bag or a wearable blanket. They are used once a baby can no longer be swaddled, because they have shown signs of beginning to roll. Many sleep sacks come with different TOG ratings that determine their thickness/how warm they are. There are lots of handy charts available to help you determine which TOG rating to get, based on the temperature of your child’s room and how much clothing they should wear under the sleep sack.
Why should I use a swaddle?
There are a few reasons why I highly recommend swaddling your newborn. One reason is that newborns are happiest when their external environment mimics their environment in the womb. This means that they will feel happy and safe if they are snug in a swaddle. The second reason is that newborns have the Moro reflex, which causes their arms and legs to jerk and flail. This jerking and flailing makes it hard for your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep, however if they are swaddled, it prevents this from happening.
Why should I use a sleep sack?
Most babies begin to roll around 4 months, and the swaddle must be dropped when the rolling starts, however the AAP does not recommend anything in the crib until baby is at least 1 year old. So a sleep sack is a safe option to give your little one a similar feeling of comfort as the swaddle, and it gives some added warmth, without putting a blanket in their crib.
Are sleep sacks safe for newborns?
As long as the sleep sack fits properly and cannot come up to cover your baby’s face and the TOG rating is appropriate so they are not becoming overheated, then yes! Sleep sacks are safe for newborns. That being said, I still recommend a swaddle over a sleep sack for newborns as they help your baby feel snug as well as helping mitigate their Moro reflex.
Do I use a swaddle or a sleep sack?
To reiterate, I recommend using a swaddle from the time your baby is born, until they are showing signs of rolling. At this point you can transition to a sleep sack, however some babies are still jerky and flail their arms, which disrupts their sleep. Thankfully there are some really great products on the market which can help with this transition.
It is still important to check what the safety recommendations are for each sleep tool that you use, do your own research and choose a product you are comfortable with. For example, you need to stop using the Merlin’s Magic Sleep Suit once your baby is able to roll when they are IN it.
When, and if your baby is no longer jerky, and you don’t feel they would benefit from the added comfort and gentle weight of these products, then you can move to a regular sleep sack that has an appropriate TOG rating and is a good fit for your baby.
When do I stop using a sleep sack?
There are a couple of things to consider when deciding the appropriate time to stop using a sleep sack. Since sleep sacks are safer than a blanket, there really is no reason to ditch it until your little one is in a big kid bed. The AAP says that once your baby is older than one, you have the option of transitioning them out of the sleep sack and introducing a small blanket, however, there are benefits to continue using a sleep sack instead of a blanket.
One benefit is that wearing a sleep sack makes it difficult for your little one to climb out of the crib. (And I don’t recommend transitioning to a big kid bed until at least 3 years old).
The other benefit is that unlike a blanket, your little one can’t get tangled up in the sleep sack, nor will they get frustrated in the night trying to find it if they’ve gotten cold. Once your little one is in a big kid bed, you probably want to consider transitioning them to a blanket instead of a sleep sack, simply for ease of movement getting out of bed. It’s a little tricky to get out of bed at night to find your parents/get a drink/go potty if you’re zipped up in a sleeping bag.
How to transition out of a sleep sack
There is no right or wrong way to transition out of a sleep sack, and most children have very little difficulty with the transition, however if you are concerned or want to air on the side of caution, consider a slow transition.
Introduce your little one to a small, light blanket to go with their sleep sack so they get used to manipulating the added material, in their sleep space. It also might be easier to make this transition while they are still in their crib, and then once they are used to sleeping with a blanket instead of a sleep sack, then make the transition from crib to a big kid bed and ditch the sleep sack.
For everything you need to know about transitioning your toddler from a crib to a big kid’s bed, check out my “Transitioning to a Big Kid Bed” troubleshooting guide, which is in my Toddler Guide Pack.
Sleep Sack vs. Swaddle: Choosing the Best Option for Your Baby
As parents, we're often taught to swaddle our babies to ensure their comfort and safety while they sleep. But if you're considering alternatives, you might be curious about sleep sacks. Understanding the differences between sleep sacks and swaddles is crucial in making the right choice for your child.
Each option comes with its own benefits and considerations, and what works best may vary from one child to another. Ultimately, creating a safe and comfortable sleeping environment is paramount for your baby's growth and development.
Both sleep sacks and swaddles can provide this, and by understanding their distinctions, you'll be able to make an informed decision. So, let's dive into the comparison of sleep sacks vs swaddles!
Understanding Sleep Sacks
Imagine a wearable blanket for your newborn. That's what a sleep sack is – snug around the chest and looser around the feet.
It's akin to an adult's sleeping bag but doesn't cover the head. While some sleep sacks cover the baby's arms, others leave them free. The primary focus is on providing warmth and security without compromising mobility.
Benefits of Sleep Sacks
Sleep sacks offer a range of advantages. Firstly, they are designed to keep your baby comfortably warm throughout the night, while ensuring they remain on their back, which is important for suppressing the startle reflex and, reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Additionally, sleep sacks support the natural development of your baby's mobility by allowing them to roll over safely as they grow. They are incredibly convenient to use, thanks to their loose design and simple zipper fastening, making nighttime changes a breeze. Moreover, sleep sacks promote healthy hip development as they provide ample room for your baby's hips and legs to move freely.
Studies have shown that tightly wrapping the hips and legs at night can contribute to hip dysplasia and poor development. A sleep sack allows the infant to move their legs freely.
Understanding Swaddling
Swaddling has been a common practice for thousands of years. It involves snugly wrapping your baby in a lightweight blanket – generally made of soft materials like muslin, cotton, or merino wool for warmth and breathability – before bedtime, mimicking the feeling of security and comfort they experienced in the womb.
Benefits of Swaddling
Swaddling offers several benefits. By keeping your baby in the supine position, it reduces the risk of SIDS. Swaddling also helps soothe babies by minimizing the startle reflex, leading to reduced crying and increased relaxation. Many infants feel secure and find it easier to settle down and sleep when swaddled.
Sleep Sacks vs Swaddles: Core Differences
Each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations, tailored to suit different preferences among parents. Swaddle blankets are often favored for their versatility, serving multiple purposes such as cleaning up spills or functioning as a blanket for older children. However, sleep sacks offer distinct benefits.
Many parents find sleep sacks appealing due to their convenience and ease of use. Unlike swaddling, which requires learning a specific technique, sleep sacks can be effortlessly utilized by simply placing the baby inside and fastening it, typically with a zipper.
Moreover, sleep sacks eliminate the need to transition your growing infant out of swaddling. Instead, you can purchase a larger sleep sack as your baby develops until they no longer require one. Transitioning away from swaddling can be a challenging adjustment for infants, whereas sleep sacks provide a smoother transition.
Furthermore, sleep sacks provide better mobility for your baby. With the arms free and room for leg movement, sleep sacks allow infants to kick their legs and develop their hips properly. In contrast, swaddles tend to be more restrictive, potentially hindering leg movement and affecting hip development if wrapped too tightly.
Both options have their merits and intended purposes, so let's delve deeper into when to use each one.
When to Use Sleep Sacks and Swaddle Blankets
A sleep sack can be used from birth, although it’s important that you buy one designed specifically for a newborn if you plan to use one immediately. It should fit snugly around your newborn, eliminating any risk of them wriggling down inside or pulling it over their head.
Sleep sacks are typically available in various sizes based on age. Many brands, such as Woolino, offer sleep sacks for babies, toddlers, and even older children, with sizes extending up to age 4.
One of the advantages of sleep sacks is that they help maintain the right temperature for your child throughout the night, ensuring their comfort even when they are old enough for loose blankets and bedding. For little ones, sleep sacks also simplify nighttime diaper changes and bedtime dressing.
Sleep sacks can provide a sense of security, making them ideal for babies who dislike being swaddled or tend to move around a lot. They serve as a suitable alternative once your child has outgrown swaddling.
However, many parents choose to initially use a swaddle when their baby is born. Swaddling simulates the comforting feeling of being in the womb and can promote better sleep and reduced stress for newborns.
It is common for parents to transition to a sleep sack around 8 weeks of age. This shift is often prompted by the potential dangers associated with swaddling, as it can restrict arm movement and prevent babies from rolling back over if they end up on their stomachs.
Now, you might be wondering about the duration of swaddling. There isn't a specific timeframe when babies "need" to be swaddled since it is not a necessity. However, it's crucial to stop swaddling before your child is capable of rolling over. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most babies reach this milestone between 3 to 4 months, although some may do so as early as 2 months.
It’s recommended that parents discontinue swaddling around 2 months of age and pay attention to signs of their baby attempting to roll over, resisting being swaddled, or frequently waking up during the night.
Safety Considerations
Ensuring the safety of your baby is paramount when deciding between a sleep sack and a swaddle. It's crucial to consider which option will maintain your baby's optimal temperature and provide the utmost safety while they sleep.
Whether you choose a swaddle or a sleep sack, it's essential to ensure a snug fit without any risk of covering the baby's head. Loose fabric poses a significant danger, especially for infants. Swaddles should be properly tucked in using recommended techniques, while sleep sacks should be the appropriate size for your baby.
For a safe sleep environment, place your baby on a firm, flat mattress, preferably in the same room as you, but not in the same bed. Always position your baby on their back and avoid placing them on their sides or stomachs.
If you opt for swaddling, it's important to know how to use a swaddle blanket effectively. You can use any blanket that is sufficiently large, but ensure it is lightweight to prevent overheating, especially if your baby is wearing additional layers underneath the swaddle, like a bodysuit.
We cover how to swaddle your baby below:
Lay the blanket flat on a surface with the bottom edge pointing towards you, creating a diamond shape. Fold the top point down to form a triangle.
Place your baby on the blanket with their feet near the bottom point of the diamond and their shoulders aligned with the folded edge.
Gently position your baby's right arm alongside their body and fold the right side of the blanket over to the left side, tucking it under the left arm. Fold the bottom of the blanket over the baby's feet.
Finally, fold the left side of the blanket over the baby's left arm and tuck it in on the right-hand side. Your baby should now be comfortably swaddled. Ensure there is some room for movement around the hips.
Always ensure your baby maintains a comfortable temperature at night. While parents often worry about their babies being too cold, infants are more susceptible to overheating.
Whether you choose a sleep sack or a swaddle, avoid putting a hat on your baby when putting them to bed and refrain from placing any loose blankets, toys, or bumpers in the crib, as they pose suffocation risks.
Once your baby reaches 12 months of age, they typically have enough control to enjoy the presence of soft, cozy blankets on their bed.
Transitioning from Swaddle to Sleep Sack
At a certain point, you may find it necessary to swap your infant from a swaddle to a sleep sack. However, this transition can initially be challenging. Your baby may prefer the swaddle if they are accustomed to it and might initially feel insecure in a sleep sack.
Teaching your baby to sleep well without the swaddle is key. One effective approach is to swaddle your baby as usual but leave one arm out of the wrap while tucking the other in. It's important to alternate which arm is left out so that your child gradually adjusts. This can be done during naptime or bedtime.
If your baby appears restless and struggles during this process, consider leaving one arm out when they fall asleep but swaddling them again when they wake up for the first time. Take a gradual approach and don't expect an instant transition. It may take some time for your baby to become accustomed to the new arrangement.
Once your baby is comfortable having their arms free, the transition from swaddle to sleep sack typically becomes smoother. You can simply tuck their arms into the sleep sack, and most babies will feel secure and content.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Sleep Sack and Swaddle Blanket
When deciding between a sleep sack and a swaddle, there are a good few things to think about making it challenging to determine which option is best for you and your child. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
The baby's age: Swaddling is suitable for young infants and is generally recommended to be discontinued around 2 months old. Sleep sacks, on the other hand, can be used for extended periods as long as they are the right size.
Sleep preferences: Each baby has different sleep preferences. If your little one has trouble settling, a swaddle might provide a sense of security and help them sleep better.
Season: It's essential to consider the season when selecting sleepwear. Swaddles can be lightweight and suitable for summer, while cozier options may be preferred for winter. Sleep sacks come in various TOG ratings and can be adjusted to the season. Brands like Woolino offer light cotton sleep sacks for summer and 4-season options made of merino wool for year-round comfort.
Safety: It's crucial to prioritize safety. Avoid using a swaddle if your child is over 2 months old or has started attempting to turn over. Ensure that the sleep sack is well-fitted, and the baby cannot slide down inside it during the night.
Convenience: Consider the convenience factor. Swaddles can be cumbersome, especially during nighttime diaper changes, particularly if you're unfamiliar with the swaddling technique. In such cases, a sleep sack may offer more convenience.
Appearance: While appearance definitely isn't the most important consideration, we all can't help ourselves by making our little one look even cuter. Some parents appreciate the appearance of sleep sacks, while others prefer the traditional look of a swaddle.
By taking these factors into account, you can make a more informed decision regarding whether a sleep sack or a swaddle is the right choice for you and your baby.
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Pros and Cons Comparison
With all of the above in mind, let’s break down some of the pros and cons of a swaddle vs a sleep sack, so you can compare them more easily.
Sleep sack pros
They are very easy to use
They make diaper changes quick and simple
Your baby can safely roll over because their arms are free
There’s no need to transition the baby
They reduce the risk of SIDS
They allow for proper hip development
They can be used for months/years
Sleep sack cons
You have to buy something special that can’t easily be repurposed
They aren’t as snug, so your baby may feel less secure
Swaddle pros
You can use any suitably sized, lightweight blanket, so there’s no need to buy something special
You can reuse the blanket later
Infants feel secure when swaddled and it may improve their sleep
The baby stays on their back in the supine position, reducing the risk of SIDS
Swaddle cons
The technique should only be used for a couple of months
There is a transition period where the infant must get used to sleeping without the swaddle
It can be more complicated to apply and involves a learning curve
It’s potentially dangerous if the improper technique is used
If the swaddle isn’t properly wrapped, the baby’s hips may not develop
The baby’s arms aren’t free, which can be dangerous if they start rolling over early
Diaper changes are more difficult and disruptive
As you can see, both options have advantages and drawbacks, and you may want to try both before you decide which is best for you and your baby.
Conclusion
Sleep sacks and swaddles are important parts of nightwear for your baby, and you hopefully now have a better sense of which one might work for you.
Sleep sacks have lots of benefits, but some parents find swaddles keep their babies quieter and happier at night. After the 2-month mark, a sleep sack will likely be the best option.
Different babies have very different preferences when it comes to nightwear. Some like to be bundled up securely and will prefer a swaddle. Others like to kick and squirm and will prefer the greater range of movement offered by the sleep sack.
You will need to think about your baby’s needs and your needs in order to make a decision that will work for you, but you should now have the knowledge to do so.
FAQs
Is it safe to use a sleep sack instead of swaddling?
Yes, you can use a sleep sack, and it may even be safer than swaddling as long as it fits your infant well. There’s no risk of it coming unfastened and posing a suffocation hazard. It will keep your little one warm, comfortable, and flat on their back.
Can I swaddle my baby in a sleep sack?
You won’t usually want to swaddle over or under a sleep sack. In many cases, this will make your infant too hot. It also removes the benefit of the sleep slack i.e. free arms.
It can be done, but you should make sure that you choose products that are compatible and that there is no chance of the swaddle coming undone and posing a suffocation risk.
What age is appropriate to transition from a swaddle to a sleep sack?
You should usually transition your baby from a swaddle to a sleep sack when they’re around 2 months old. Some parents wait longer, but you must stop swaddling your infant as soon as they show signs of trying to roll over. If your baby seems to dislike the swaddle and tries to wriggle out of it, stop using it and swap immediately.
Can I use both a sleep sack and a swaddle for my baby?
You can use both, yes. Many parents have a swaddle for the early days and then switch their baby to a sleep sack as they grow. Bear in mind that there’s a transition period for some babies as they get used to the looser feel of the sleep sack.
Some parents like to vary things, using a sleep sack at night and a swaddle for naptime, or vice versa. Find what works best for you and your child by experimenting, but make sure you always keep your child cool enough and avoid having loose fabrics in their bed while they’re sleeping.
Sleep Sack vs Swaddle: Differences & What’s Best for Your Baby
If you’re being kept awake at night by the sleep sack vs swaddle debate, you’re not alone. There’s so much confusion as a new parent and sleep issues don’t help. Not only do you want your precious newborn to sleep well, but you want him to sleep safely. But does that mean a sleep sack or a swaddle? And what’s the difference between a swaddle and a swaddle blanket anyway? If you’re looking for some clarity on the issue, keep reading for some FAQs about the sleep sack vs swaddle blanket issue:
What are the differences between a sleep sack and a swaddle?
A sleep sack is essentially a wearable blanket that keeps your infant safe, warm, and comfortable. Sleep sacks are good for newborns through toddlerhood.
A swaddle is a large blanket, typically made of light material, that is used to wrap up - or swaddle - your baby nice and tight (like a burrito!). That tight feeling of swaddling is meant to mimic life inside the womb where baby has lived so snuggly for the past nine months. It’s believed that swaddling helps baby feel comfortable, safe and secure and is typically used from birth to three months.
When it comes to sleep, it’s important to note that whether you use a sleep sack or a swaddle, that the safest position for baby is always on his back, for naps and nighttime, until they’re at least 12 months old. Further, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “bare is best.” This means that soft bedding such as blankets, pillows and soft toys should be kept out of the baby's sleep space to avoid accidental suffocation, the leading cause of SIDS. This makes the sleep sack a great option!
What are the advantages of sleep sacks vs swaddles?
While every baby and family is different, some parents find that swaddling is the way to go when it comes to their newborn. That’s because swaddling offers that snug feeling that baby is used to from 9 months in the womb. Some parents find that baby sleeps better and for longer stretches when swaddled.
That said, other parents swear by sleep sacks. They’re always a safe choice as they eliminate the need for anything extra in the crib which, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), greatly reduces the risks of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Often times, it’s a matter of finding the option that will work best for you. If, however, you’re still confused about the sleep sack vs swaddle newborn debate, by all means, consult your pediatrician.
When do babies transition from a swaddle to a sleep sack?
Once your little one is able to roll over on their own, they typically no longer like the swaddle as it may restrict their movement. While every baby is different and starts to roll over at different times, this milestone is usually reached between 2-4 months old. By then it’s a great idea to move to a wearable blanket, also known as a sleep sack, to ensure that your baby is still safe in her sleep space.
What is the difference between a swaddle and a swaddle blanket?
A swaddle blanket is designed specifically to swaddle baby. Usually, they are made from a lightweight and breathable fabric that helps to regulate baby’s body temperature. When not used for swaddling, swaddling blankets are quite versatile but should never be used as a blanket in a crib or sleep space to avoid the risks of suffocation.
Some swaddle “blankets” have built in or removable swaddle “wings” that make swaddling baby easier. Of course, it’s important to follow all manufacturer directions to ensure all safety precautions.
What are the benefits of a sleep sack vs blanket?
Sleep sacks make certain that your infant will sleep safely by eliminating the need for anything extra in his crib. That means no blankets, no toys, just baby in his crib, bassinet or co-sleeper, in nothing but his wearable blanket! Sleep sacks also help regulate your infant’s body temperature which keeps him from being too cold, too hot, and makes their sleep just right!
Some babies love their sleep sacks and want them well into toddlerhood! It’s a personal choice, but once baby starts to crawl and explore their surroundings, or becomes an escape artist, it may be time to retire the sleep sack. For safety reasons, most experts recommend not using a blanket in baby’s sleep space until they’re at least 12 months old.
Should I use a swaddle or sleep sack for newborn?
A lot of new parents love swaddling because swaddling is meant to soothe your newborn infant as they get used to life outside the womb. Those first few months of life are sometimes referred to as the “fourth trimester” and to help ease that transition, swaddling is meant to mimic life inside the womb where baby has lived so snuggly for the past nine months. It’s that wrapped, tight feeling that helps baby feel comfortable, safe and secure – and who can resist how cute he looks as a little baby burrito?! Swaddling also helps flailing arms and legs that can trigger baby’s startle reflex (also known as the Moro reflex).
But don’t worry, if your baby just isn’t taking to swaddling and you’re wondering when to use a sleep sack, we have a weighted sleep swaddle with a fully integrated inner swaddle band which makes swaddling a breeze. We also have a weighted sleep sack. Both of which can be used from 0-6 months and are designed to help your baby feel calm, fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Do pediatricians recommend sleep sacks or swaddles?
Whether you decide on a sleep sack or a swaddle, safety is always the primary concern when it comes to baby sleep. As such, according to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) follow this acronym for the ABC’s of safe sleep!
A – ALONE. Baby should always sleep alone but in the same room as her caregiver
B – BACK. Baby should always, always, always, be put to sleep on her back – both for naps and nighttime sleep.
C – CRIB. Baby should sleep in a crib or co-sleeper with a firm mattress and snug-fitting sheet – that is it! No bumpers, no extra bedding, no cuddle toys!
Are sleep sacks or swaddles safer for a newborn to sleep in?
Sleep sacks can be used starting at birth however most parents feel that swaddling is a better option for their newborn. Swaddling is meant to mimic life inside the womb and is a familiar feeling for your newborn to be wrapped up tight and snuggly. That said, sleep sacks are a great and easy option for new parents who are intimidated by swaddling techniques.
What is the difference between a weighted sleep sack and a weighted swaddle?
Sleep sacks and swaddles are both used to soothe babies and provide safe sleep, but they have their share of different features.
A swaddle is a large blanket that you wrap tightly around your baby to produce a womb-like experience. It’s recommended for newborns and babies, but should not be used once they show signs of rolling over. Swaddles can comfort babies and help them relax and sleep. While most parents will fashion swaddles out of blankets, there are also premade swaddles that you can purchase from baby product manufacturers that aren’t as likely to unravel. Ensuring your baby is properly swaddled is important for their safety. Swaddles keep babies warm and comfortable without the use of blankets that may suffocate them. They prevent the startle reflex that can cause a baby to wake up in the middle of the night. They should be secured tightly, but not too tightly as to restrict movement and interfere with hip development.
A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that is used to keep your baby comfortable while it sleeps. It has a head hole and arm holes that keep it in place, while the bottom is a sack that allows your baby to move its feet and legs freely. It may also feature a zipper, Velcro, snaps, or some combination of the three for easy on and off and convenient diaper access. Similar to swaddles, sleep sacks should stay on throughout the night as long as they fit properly. Sleep sacks can help reduce the risk of SIDS.
Both sleep sacks and swaddles can be weighted. They are typically weighted with some type of beads, pellets, or down material that goes inside the product’s fabric lining. The weight is meant to produce feelings of additional security making your baby feel even more relaxed.
How do you choose between a sleep sack and swaddle?
A swaddle is a good choice for newborns. Newborns are not as mobile as older babies, and they will likely be more comforted by the womb-like experience a swaddle provides.
As a baby gets older, typically around the 3–4-month period, they will begin moving around more. They will be starting to roll over and they will become more mobile. At this stage, you may want to move them on to a sleep sack which is less restrictive than a swaddle.
When should a baby use a sleep sack?
While every baby is different, the typical ‘sleep sack age’ is between 4 months and one year. 4 months is a good target age for transitioning from a swaddle to a sleep sack as the baby will be getting more mobile. They will appreciate the sack’s ability to allow them to move around and reach their developmental milestones.
Babies can move on from a sleep sack when they are a year old as this is the age when the SIDS risk decreases.
When do babies stop wearing sleep sacks?
You may want to transition from a sleep sack at one year as this is the age when the risk of SIDS decreases. But, there are no hard and fast rules stating that you must take your baby out of the sack at one year. It depends on how quickly your baby is developing.
However, there are definite signs that will tell you it’s time to move on from the sleep sack.
For example, if your baby is walking, you should probably take them out of the sleep sack. While a sleep sack allows enough movement for your baby to crawl and roll around, it will restrict them from walking. If they try to walk while in the sleep sack, they could fall down and get hurt.
You may also want to move them on from the sleep sack if your baby is becoming frustrated or irritated when you are putting it on them. This may be because they dislike the way it’s restricting their movement.
When should a baby wear a swaddle?
Newborn babies can wear swaddles as long as they fit properly. As we welcome our baby into the great big world, we will want to comfort them in any way we can. Swaddles can be a safe way to mimic a womb-like feeling to help your baby transition peacefully. Experts recommend that it’s best to begin swaddling babies right away and as opposed to introducing it to them later, when they are a few months old.
When should you stop swaddling a baby?
There are varying opinions on when to stop swaddling a baby, but most experts concur that it should be within the 2–4-month range.
If a baby isn’t swaddled correctly, or if it rolls onto its stomach while it's swaddled, it increases the risk of suffocation. While most babies will actively roll over at four months, some will start at 2 months. Most pediatricians recommend parents stop swaddling well before babies start rolling over.
Some parents may be concerned that the baby won’t be able to sleep as calmly if swaddling stops too early, but pediatricians state moms and dads have nothing to worry about. Babies will start self-soothing at the two-month point and their start reflex should fade so they should be able to sleep better through the night at this time.
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