Sleep Sacks vs. Blankets: Which is Better for Your Baby's Sleep?

We often get asked for baby blankets, and to the surprise of many, we don't have many because the sleep sack is the safer sleep choice for babies under one. We do have some beautiful hand crochet blankets in shop, along with a few other blanket options - these are more intended for your day to day snuggling, swaddling, and out and about warmth.

While a blanket is a traditional choice for keeping babies warm, they have a significant risks. Blankets are more likely to be tangled around a baby's neck or face, increasing the risk of suffocation or SIDS. That's why Canadian health experts advise against using blankets until babies are at least one year old.

Babies do not need blankets when they sleep. When babies move their arms and legs, they can make the blanket cover their head. This can cause them to overheat or suffocate. If you use a blanket for your baby, make sure it is thin and lightweight. Safe Sleep for Baby, Canadian Government. 

But what about swaddling blankets? Prior to rolling, a swaddling blanket is a great way to wrap up your new burrito for a comfortable night sleep. Consider a lightweight blanket and ensure it stays well away from the baby's nose and mouth., Wrap your baby so they can still move their hips and legs freely, and leave their hands free so they can signal when they're hungry. It's crucial to stop swaddling before your baby can roll, as swaddling is not safe for babies when they are on their tummies. 

The alternative - Sleep sacks are a safer option that allow babies to stay warm and cozy without the risks of loose bedding. They're essentially wearable blankets, with a fitted design that keeps your baby snug and secure.

There are many options for sleep sacks from lightweight summer styles to warmer winter styles. Available in TENCEL, Bamboo, and Cotton, sleep sacks feature many different design elements to be versatile for modern parenting. Most importantly, a sleep sack must be the right size for the safety of babe. 

If you use a sleep sack, make sure it is the right size for your baby. If it’s too big, your baby’s head can slip down inside the sack, which can cause your baby to overheat or suffocate. If it’s too tight, your baby may not be able to move their hips and legs freely, which can be dangerous, especially if they roll onto their tummy. Canadian Paediatric Society.

Make sure to choose a sleep sack with a safe TOG rating for your baby's sleep environment, and don't layer additional blankets. Depending on the room temperature or your child, you may want to layer safe sleepwear on the child to meet comfort.

When it comes to choosing between a sleep sack and a blanket, the answer is clear: sleep sacks are the safer choice for your baby. They provide warmth and comfort without the risks of loose bedding, and can help reduce the risk of SIDS.