As a parent, one of the many decisions you have to make is when to transition your baby out of their sleep sack and into a regular blanket. Sleep sacks, also known as wearable blankets, are great for infants and toddlers as they provide warmth and comfort while reducing the risk of SIDS. However, there does come a time when your little one is ready to graduate to a regular blanket.
What is a sleep sack?
A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that is slipped over a baby’s body and zipped up like a little sleeping bag. It keeps a baby warm while preventing loose bedding from covering their face and impairing breathing. Sleep sacks come in various weights and sizes to accommodate babies at different ages.
There are two main types of sleep sacks:
- Swaddle sleep sacks – These have arm restrictions to gently snuggle baby’s arms to prevent startling while sleeping. They are designed for newborns up to about 3 months old.
- Transitional sleep sacks – These allow for more freedom of movement as baby gets older while still keeping them cozy. They are made for babies 3 months and up.
Sleep sacks offer many advantages over loose blankets:
- They reduce the risk of SIDS and suffocation.
- Babies sleep better because they feel secure and comforted.
- They prevent startle reflexes from waking baby.
- Babies stay warm without the danger of kicking off loose blankets.
- They discourage climbing out of the crib.
When to transition out of the sleep sack
Most pediatricians recommend using a sleep sack for at least the first 12 months of a baby’s life. However, there is no set age when you must stop using one. The timeline will vary for each child based on their development and sleep habits.
Here are some signs your baby may be ready to ditch the sleep sack:
- Rolling over and moving freely – Once baby becomes mobile and can roll over easily, the sleep sack’s arm restrictions can become frustrating and unnecessary.
- Growing out of the size – When your baby exceeds the maximum height/weight limit for their sleep sack, it’s time to size up to a blanket.
- Climbing out of the crib – Adventurous climbers may use the sleep sack as leverage to hoist themselves up and over the railing. A blanket reduces this risk.
- Waking up tangled – Active sleepers who wiggle a lot may get twisted up in the constricting sack at night.
- Seems too warm – If your baby seems hot and sweaty in their sack, they may sleep better without it.
- Resists going into the sleep sack – If your toddler fights or protests getting zipped into it, they are signaling their readiness for a big kid blanket.
Making the transition
Switching from a sleep sack to a blanket is an important transition. Here are some tips to help make it smooth and safe:
- Introduce a lovey or small blankie in the crib first so your child gets used to having loose fabric around.
- Put your baby down for naps without the sack so they can get used to having just a blanket.
- Choose a lightweight blanket that won’t cause overheating.
- Use a larger crib-sized blanket that’s more difficult to kick off completely.
- Tuck the blanket around the crib mattress so it stays in place.
- Dress your baby in warm pajamas as an added layer.
- Consider using a sleep sack during travel or whenever baby sleeps outside their normal crib.
- Be diligent about keeping all other loose bedding out of the crib.
If your child seems distressed without their sleep sack at first, you may want to ease them into the transition gradually over a week or two. Reassure them and help them feel secure with their new blanket.
Sleep sack alternatives
Once you retire the sleep sack, there are a few products that can provide a similar cozy, secure feeling for your toddler:
- Wearable blanket – Like a sleep sack but without the bottom section. Provides warmth while allowing leg mobility.
- Zip-up pajamas – Try footed pajamas with a two-way front zipper for easy diaper changes. The snug fit mimics a sleep sack.
- Weighted blanket – The gentle pressure can be soothing and remind them of being swaddled.
- Hooded towel – After a warm bath, let your child relax and fall asleep in a hooded towel.
Crib safety without a sleep sack
Once you transition to a loose blanket, it’s vitally important to continue following safe sleep practices to reduce SIDS risks. Here are some key tips:
- Always place baby on their back to sleep – this remains the #1 way to avoid SIDS.
- Keep crib free of pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, etc. to eliminate suffocation risks.
- Use a firm, flat mattress covered only by a fitted sheet.
- Don’t allow any loose bedding to cover baby’s head.
- Check that blanket stays below baby’s chest and doesn’t creep up near face.
- Ensure crib slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart so baby’s body doesn’t slip through.
- Set the mattress at the lowest level once your baby can sit up.
- Keep the room temperature comfortable between 65-70°F.
Following the ABCs of safe sleep is essential: Alone on the Back in a bare Crib.
Conclusion
While every child will reach this milestone at their own pace, most babies are ready to ditch the sleep sack and transition to a blanket between 12-18 months old. Look for signs your little one is rolling freely, outgrowing their sack size, and resisting being zipped up at night. Introduce a blanket gradually and stick to safe sleep habits. With the right precautions, your baby can stay cozy and safe in their crib after retiring the trusted sleep sack.