How to keep your toddler warm at night in the winter?
When cold weather hits, you want to make sure your toddler stays nice and cozy all night long. Here are some tips to keep your little one warm and comfortable in their sleep environment during the winter months:
Use the Right Pajamas
- Opt for footed pajamas made from warm fabrics like fleece or flannel
- Look for pajamas with long sleeves and legs for more coverage
- Make sure pajamas aren't too tight or restrictive
Layer the Bedding
- Use warm fitted sheets made from cozy fabrics like flannel
- Add a quilted mattress pad for extra insulation
- Use multiple lightweight blankets that can be added or removed as needed
- Finish with a warm comforter or duvet suitable for your toddler's age
Consider a Sleep Sack
A wearable blanket or sleep sack keeps your toddler warm while reducing the risk of kicking off loose blankets. Look for one made with warm fabrics and an appropriate TOG rating for the room temperature.
Set the Right Room Temperature
Aim to keep your toddler's room around 68-72°F throughout the night. Place a thermometer at their level to monitor. Avoid overheating which can be unsafe.
Use a Humidifier
Running a cool mist humidifier can add moisture back into dry winter air and help your toddler breathe easier.
With the right combination of cozy pajamas, layered bedding and a comfortable sleep environment, your little one can stay perfectly warm and sleep great all winter long.
How to Transition Your Toddler from Swaddle to Sleep Sack?
Making the switch from swaddle to sleep sack is a big milestone, but with some preparation it can be a smooth process for you and your toddler. Here are some tips to help transition your little one:
Pick the Right Time
Experts recommend transitioning at signs your toddler is ready, typically around 2-3 months old when they start showing signs of rolling over. But every baby is different!
Try One Arm Out
- Start by swaddling with one arm out to get your toddler used to feeling freer movement
- After a few nights, switch to the other arm out
- Finally, go to both arms out while still wrapping the swaddle around your toddler's torso
Use Transitional Swaddles
There are modified swaddles that allow you to adjust swaddle tightness, or have zip-off arm sections to gradually transition.
Pick the Right Sleep Sack
| Age | TOG Rating | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 months | 2.5 TOG | Arms-only design |
| 3-6 months | 2.5 TOG | Shoulder snaps to reduce startle reflex |
| 6-18 months | 2.5-3.5 TOG | Foot openings, two-way zipper for diaper changes |
Create a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Keep your toddler's routine the same with dim lights, white noise, stories, songs, etc. to help them adjust to the change.
Provide Extra Comfort
Have a favorite lovey or pacifier on hand to ease frustration. Offer extra cuddles if needed when putting them down in the sleep sack.
Be patient through the transition process. With time your toddler will adapt to their sleep sack and be snoozing soundly!
Similar products
How to Get Your Active Toddler to Stay in Their Sleep Sack?
Some toddlers think sleep sacks are for breaking free from! But a good sleep routine and the right sack can convince even the wiggiest sleepers to stay put.
Choose the Right Design
- Look for a sack with foot openings so they can walk safely when they climb out of the crib
- Two-way zippers allow easy diaper changes without fully removing
- Shoulder snaps prevent the sack from sliding up and irritating active sleepers
Make It Part of the Routine
Putting on the sleep sack signals sleep time. Make it the last step of your bedtime ritual.
Apply Properly
- Make sure baby's arms are through the correct holes
- Zip up snugly so the sack stays in place
- Secure any shoulder snaps or arm bands
Use Transitional Swaddles
Adjustable swaddles allow you to transition gradually from snug wraps to avoid startling them awake.
Distract and Redirect
If they try to wiggle out, distract with songs or stories to redirect them. Praise when they stay put.
Make It Comfy
Use breathable cotton for comfort. Add extra layers like footie pajamas underneath on cold nights.
With a thoughtful approach, even the most active toddler can be swayed into loving their sack. Sweet dreams!
Another interesting products
How to Choose the Right TOG for Your Toddler's Sleep Sack?
Selecting the right TOG rating for your toddler's sleep sack helps ensure they stay at a comfortable temperature all night. Here are some tips:
Understand TOG Ratings
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade and indicates the sack's insulation ability. The higher the TOG, the warmer the sack.
- 0.5 TOG - For room temps 72°F and above
- 1.0 TOG - For room temps 68-72°F
- 2.5 TOG - For room temps 64-68°F
- 3.5 TOG - For room temps 60-64°F
Factor in Room Temperature
Aim to keep your toddler's room around 68-72°F. If your room runs colder, choose a warmer TOG sack.
Consider Your Toddler's Size
Bigger toddlers tend to run warmer. A 2.5 TOG sack may be too warm for a large 18 month old if the room is 70°F.
Check the Material
Some materials like cotton provide more warmth than microfiber. Double gauze cotton with a 2.5 TOG can feel like microfiber with a 3.5 TOG.
Layer Appropriately
If your toddler needs extra warmth, use sock sleeves or footed pajamas under a lighter TOG sack instead of sizing up.
Adjust as Needed
Monitor your toddler's temperature and switch TOGs with the seasons. You may need a warmer sack in winter and lighter one in summer.
Choosing the optimal TOG helps your toddler sleep comfortably without overheating or getting chilled. Check the sack's TOG rating and pair it with pajamas to find the right balance of cozy and breathable.
How to Pick the Best Sleep Sack Size for Your Toddler
Choosing the right sleep sack size ensures your toddler's safety and comfort all night long. Consider these tips when selecting a size:
Check Weight Recommendations
Many sacks list size by weight. A "12-18 months" size may fit babies 12-18 lbs. Check your toddler's weight and choose accordingly.
Measure Height
Height is also key. Make sure the sack length covers their feet with extra room.
Consider Fit Across Shoulders
The sack shouldn't pinch across the shoulders. Room to move arms is important.
Check Arm and Leg Openings
- Arm holes should fit comfortably without restriction
- Leg openings shouldn't dig into thighs
Allow Room to Grow
Buy a size up to accommodate growth spurts. Sacks with wide size ranges (e.g. 12-36 months) allow adjustability.
Try It On
Have your toddler try on the sack and walk around to test roominess and length.
Consider Fabric
Stretchier fabrics like jersey cotton may offer more flexibility in sizing.
Check Shrinkage
Pre-wash cotton sacks so they don't shrink after first use and become too small.
Taking accurate measurements and testing for good fit ensures you find a sleep sack with plenty of room for your growing toddler to sleep safely and soundly.
How to Wash and Care for a Cotton Toddler Sleep Sack
Cotton toddler sleep sacks provide breathability and comfort for sleep. Follow these guidelines to keep them fresh and clean:
Read the Label
Check washing instructions. Most cotton sacks are machine washable but may vary in temperature or have special instructions.
Wash Separately
Wash the sleep sack on its own to prevent pilling from other fabrics. Use a gentle detergent formulated for baby clothes.
Wash in Cold Water
Hot water can fade, shrink or damage cotton fabric. Stick to cold water to preserve the sack's size and softness.
Tumble Dry Low
- Lay flat to air dry or tumble dry on low heat to avoid shrinkage
- Remove promptly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles
Avoid Fabric Softeners
The chemicals in liquid softeners and dryer sheets can be irritating for sensitive skin. Use vinegar in the rinse for natural softening.
Inspect Zippers
Ensure zippers aren't catching, replace if needed. Mend loose threads immediately.
Check for Stains
Treat stains quickly with stain remover or soak in oxy-clean to avoid setting in.
With proper laundering, your cotton toddler sleep sack will remain soft, clean, and comfortable for your little one to sleep in.
