As a new parent, ensuring your newborn sleeps safely and soundly is of utmost importance. With so many products and information available, it can be overwhelming to navigate through all the options. Let me help you out...
One crucial aspect of safe sleep is choosing the right tog, or thermal overall grade, for your newborn's sleep environment based on the season. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of safe sleep practices for newborns and provide you with valuable insights on choosing the right tog for each season, making sure your little one has sweet dreams all year round.
Why is Safe Sleep Important for Newborns?
Safe sleep practices are crucial for newborns to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related accidents. Following safe sleep practices can significantly reduce the risk of such tragedies.
So, what are the key elements of safe sleep for newborns?
Follow the below "ABC" of safe sleep:
A - Alone: Infants should sleep alone. Sharing a bed with an adult or another child can increase the risk of accidental suffocation or overheating. If you do wish to bedshare, then look into the guidance for making that safe.
B - Back: Always place your baby on their back, with their face and head uncovered. This position reduces the risk of SIDS.
C - Cot: Use a firm and flat sleep surface, such as a cot mattress covered with a fitted sheet. Avoid using soft bedding, such as pillows, comforters, or loose blankets, which can pose a suffocation risk.
Choosing the Right Tog for Each Season
In addition to following the ABCs of safe sleep, it's essential to consider the tog, or the warmth level, of your baby's sleepwear and bedding to ensure they stay comfortable and safe throughout the night. Tog ratings typically range from 0.5 tog to 3.5 tog, with higher tog ratings indicating warmer sleepwear.
Here's a guide to help you choose the right tog for each season:
Spring and Summer (0.5 - 1.0 tog): During warmer months, opt for a lower tog rating to keep your baby comfortably cool. Choose lightweight and breathable sleepwear, such as a thin onesie or a muslin swaddle, to help regulate your baby's body temperature.
Autumn and Winter (2.5 - 3.5 tog): As the weather gets colder, you'll want to keep your newborn warm and cozy. Look for sleepwear made from thicker materials, such as fleece or cotton, and consider layering with a sleep sack or a wearable blanket to provide additional warmth. Avoid using heavy blankets, as they can increase the risk of suffocation.
Transitional Seasons (1.0 - 2.5 tog): During the spring and Autumn, when the weather can be unpredictable, choose sleepwear that can be easily layered to accommodate changing temperatures. A onesie with a sleep sack or a swaddle can provide flexibility to adjust your baby's comfort level.
Pro tip: Always check your baby's body temperature by feeling their chest or back. Your baby should feel warm, but not sweaty, which can be a sign of overheating.
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