What Is TOG Rating — and Why It Matters for Baby Sleepwear
TOG ratings tell you how warm a baby sleep bag or sleepwear item will keep your baby. Choosing the right TOG helps prevent overheating and keeps your baby comfortably warm which is both important for safe sleep. Below is a parent-friendly guide to what TOG means, how to pick the right TOG for your nursery temperature, and simple tips for layering and safe sleep.
What “TOG” actually means
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade — it’s an industry measurement for the thermal insulation of a textile or sleep product (how much warmth it provides). The higher the TOG number, the warmer the garment or sleep bag; lower TOG = lighter, more breathable.
TOG → Temperature cheat-sheet
Why TOG matters for safety
Overheating is a risk factor for poor sleep and is linked with higher risk of SIDS. Health bodies advise that babies should sleep in a safe, uncluttered space with appropriate clothing for the room temperature. Sleep sacks and wearable blankets are recommended alternatives to loose blankets because they reduce the risk of covering a baby’s face. It's safer to dress your baby in an appropriate TOG-rated sleep bag rather than piling on loose bedding.
How to choose the right TOG — step-by-step
🌡️ Measure the room temperature. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend aiming for around 18 –20°C as comfortable/safe when possible.
☝️ Pick the TOG that matches the temperature.
💤 Dress in layers under the sleep bag, not over it. Lightweight bamboo pajamas or sleepsuits under a 1.0 TOG sleep bag is common in warm climates.
👶 Check your baby, not just the chart. Feel their chest or back of neck — if they’re sweaty or flushed, remove a layer or switch to a lighter TOG. If they’re cool to touch, add a layer (not a loose blanket).
Common parent questions
Q Can I use a blanket instead of a sleep bag?
A For infants, experts advise no; loose blankets can cover the face. Wearable blankets / sleep sacks with the right TOG are a safer option.
Q How do I know if my baby is too hot or too cold?
A Feel your baby’s chest or the back of their neck. Hands and feet are often cool and aren’t a reliable indicator. If the neck/upper back is sweaty or hot, that’s overheating. If the chest feels cool, add a layer.
Q Do newborns need a different TOG than older babies?
A Newborns can be more sensitive to temperature changes. The same TOG-temperature mapping applies however, but keep a closer eye on newborns and check them more frequently.
If you’re in a warm climate and want a breathable, 1.0 TOG sleep bag designed for comfortable nights, check out our Hushabye bamboo sleep bags — lightweight, breathable and made for safer sleep.