The weather is getting colder, and all parents want to ensure that their baby is warm enough in the winter months. After all, babies are less able to regulate their body temperature compared to adults. As you decide what should baby sleep in, you’ll want to take the TOG rating of products into consideration.
When you put your baby in their bedside bassinet, you will want them to be in a HALO® SleepSack® to keep them safe and warm. Here is what you need to know about heat ratings and which HALO® product is right for your baby.
What Is a TOG Rating?
When it comes to baby clothes, "TOG" (thermal overall grade) is typically used to refer to the warmth rating of sleepwear, such as baby sleep bags (also known as baby sleeping bags, baby wearable blankets or baby sleep sacks) and swaddles.
TOG is a measure of thermal insulation that indicates how effectively a material can trap warm air close to the body. The TOG rating of baby sleepwear is determined through standardized testing in a laboratory using a thermal mannequin.
The TOG rating of baby sleepwear takes into account factors such as the type of fabric, the thickness of the material, and the construction of the garment. A higher TOG rating indicates that the sleepwear provides more thermal insulation, and therefore, is suitable for colder temperatures, while a lower TOG rating is appropriate for warmer temperatures.
By using the TOG rating system, parents can choose the appropriate sleepwear for their baby based on the room temperature, ensuring that their baby stays comfortable and safe while sleeping.
TOG Value and Room Temperature
The higher the TOG value, the more insulation the sleepwear provides, and the warmer it will keep your baby. The relationship between TOG value and room temperature is important because it helps parents choose the right TOG rating for their baby's sleepwear, based on the ambient temperature in the room.
For example, if the room temperature is 75°F (24°C) or higher, a TOG value of 0.5 to 1.0 would be appropriate for your baby's sleepwear. This TOG rating provides a light layer of insulation to keep your baby comfortable without overheating. On the other hand, if the room temperature is between 61°F (16°C) and 68°F (20°C), a TOG value of 2.5 to 3.5 would be more suitable. This higher TOG rating provides more insulation to keep your baby warm in cooler temperatures.
It's important to note that the recommended TOG ratings for baby sleepwear are just guidelines, and parents should also consider other factors such as their baby's age, weight, and whether they tend to feel too hot or too cold. Additionally, it's important to monitor the room temperature regularly and adjust the TOG rating of your baby's sleepwear as necessary to ensure that your baby is comfortable and not overheating or too cold.

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Dressing Baby for Sleep
Layering Sleepwear Based on TOG Value and Room Temperature
Layering your baby's clothing is an effective way to keep them comfortable and safe during sleep. The TOG value of your baby's sleepwear can help you determine how many layers to add or remove, based on the room temperature. For example, if the room temperature is cooler and requires a higher TOG rating for sleepwear, you can add a layer of lightweight clothing under the sleepwear to provide additional warmth. However, be careful not to overdress your baby, as overheating is a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Choosing Appropriate Materials for Baby's Sleepwear
Choosing appropriate materials for your baby's sleepwear is important for their comfort and safety during sleep. It's important to choose fabrics that are soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. Cotton, bamboo, microfleece and wool are popular choices for baby sleepwear because they are soft, breathable, and regulate temperature well. It's important to avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture, leading to overheating and discomfort for your baby.
Avoiding Over Heating
Overheating is a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and can cause discomfort for your baby during sleep. To avoid overheating, it's important to dress your baby appropriately for the room temperature and use sleepwear with an appropriate TOG rating. It's also important to ensure proper ventilation in your baby's sleeping environment by keeping the room temperature comfortable and not too warm, using a fan or air conditioning if necessary, and ensuring that your baby's sleeping area is not covered by blankets or other items that can restrict airflow. Regularly checking your baby's temperature during sleep can also help you monitor for signs of overheating.

TOG Value by Season
Summer
A TOG value of 0.5 to 1.0 is suitable for temperatures of 75°F (24°C) or higher. This provides a light layer of insulation to keep your baby comfortable without overheating.
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Spring and Fall
A TOG value of 1.0 to 2.5 is appropriate for temperatures between 68°F (20°C) and 75°F (24°C). This provides a moderate level of insulation to keep your baby warm in cooler temperatures.
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Winter
A TOG value of 2.5 to 3.5 or higher is suitable for temperatures between 61°F (16°C) and 68°F (20°C). This provides a higher level of insulation to keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.
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Tips for Dressing Your Baby in Different Weather
Here are some tips for dressing your baby for different temperatures and weather conditions:
- Hot weather: In hot weather, dress your baby in lightweight and breathable clothing made of cotton or other natural fibers. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture. A simple onesie or light cotton sleeper is usually enough for hot weather. Keep your baby cool and comfortable by keeping them in the shade and providing plenty of fluids.
- Cold weather: In cold weather, dress your baby in layers to trap warmth and regulate temperature. Start with a onesie and add a layer of pants and a long-sleeved shirt or sweater. Then, add a warm jacket or coat, hat, and gloves or mittens. Choose warm, soft, and breathable fabrics such as fleece, wool, or down. Make sure that your baby's extremities, such as hands and feet, are covered and warm.
- Rainy weather: In rainy weather, dress your baby in waterproof and breathable clothing such as a raincoat and pants or a rain suit. Choose materials that will keep your baby dry without overheating, such as Gore-Tex or other breathable and waterproof fabrics.
- Windy weather: In windy weather, dress your baby in warm layers to protect them from the wind chill. Choose wind-resistant materials for outer layers, such as nylon or polyester. Cover your baby's head and ears with a warm hat and protect their face with a scarf or balaclava.
- Transitional seasons: In spring and fall, dress your baby in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Choose breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo for the bottom layer, and add a warmer layer such as a sweater or jacket as needed. Carry an extra layer or blanket for your baby in case of sudden changes in temperature.
Recommendations for Adjusting TOG Values Based on Room Temperature
It's important to monitor your baby's temperature regularly and adjust their sleepwear as needed to ensure that they are comfortable and not overheating or too cold.
- Cooler room temperature: If the room temperature is cooler, you may need to adjust the TOG rating of your baby's sleepwear to provide additional insulation. You can add an extra layer of lightweight clothing under your baby's sleepwear, or choose sleepwear with a higher TOG rating.
- Warmer room temperature: If the room temperature is warmer, you may need to adjust the TOG rating of your baby's sleepwear to provide less insulation. You can dress your baby in lighter weight clothing or choose sleepwear with a lower TOG rating.
- Room temperature changes: If the room temperature fluctuates throughout the night, consider using a sleep bag with a variable tog rating or layering your baby's clothing so that you can add or remove layers as needed.
- Consider your baby's preferences: Some babies may prefer to be cooler or warmer than others. Pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust their sleepwear accordingly. Signs that your baby may be too hot include sweating, flushed skin, and rapid breathing. Signs that your baby may be too cold include shivering, cold hands and feet, and fussiness.
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0.5 TOG Sleep Sacks
1.0 TOG Sleep Sacks
1.5 TOG Sleep Sacks
3.0 TOG Sleep Sacks
Special Considerations
Tips for Dressing Premature or Low Weight Babies
It is important to dress your baby for their needs, especially if they are premature or low weight. It is recommend to purchase clothing and baby sleepwear designed for premature or low weight babies, they are typically smaller in size, softer in material and easier to put on and off. Also, sress your baby in layers to regulate their body temperature. Start with a soft, lightweight onesie or undershirt and add layers as needed. Avoid overdressing or using heavy fabrics that can make your baby too hot. Don't forget to be gentle when dressing your baby, as premature or low weight babies may have delicate skin and fragile bones. Use soft fabrics that won't irritate their skin, and be careful not to pull or tug too hard when putting on or taking off clothing.
Dressing Babies with Health Conditions
First off, it is important to consult with your baby's healthcare provider for specific recommendations on how to dress your baby based on their health condition. Certain health conditions may require special clothing or temperature control. Be mindful of any medical equipment and how it may impact their clothing. For example, if your baby has an IV or other medical device, you may need to choose clothing that allows easy access for medical care. Lastly, choose clothing that is comfortable and won't irritate your baby's skin. Babies with certain health conditions may have sensitive skin, so it's important to choose soft fabrics that won't cause discomfort or irritation. Avoid clothing with rough seams or tags, as well as fabrics that can trap heat or moisture.