How to Transition From Sleep Sack to Blanket

In a blink, your sweet baby goes from a swaddle to a toddler sleep sack to blankets on their bed. Each of these changes comes with many feelings for you and your growing bub. 

Due to safety concerns, the transition from a sleep sack to loose blankets has parents seeking guidance on how to make this change with peace of mind. At Nest Designs, we want to help you switch your little one from a sleep sack to a blanket as seamlessly as possible.

When Should Babies Stop Wearing Sleep Sacks?

Sleep sacks (or sleep bags) have become a staple for many parents and a soothing constant for little ones at bedtime. These wearable blankets ensure that active little sleepers don't kick off their blankets in the middle of the night while keeping them sleeping safely. Sleep bags offer a sense of security for babies and toddlers while also reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by eliminating loose bedding. 

As your child grows, you should consider when to transition to a cozy blanket. Most children can continue using sleep sacks until they are 18–24 months old, but this can vary depending on your child's development and comfort. 

If your little bub is starting to climb out of their crib or trying to walk around in their sleep bag, this wearable blanket solution starts to become less than ideal. These are signs that your little one needs to transition out of their sleep sack.

When is it Safe for a Toddler to Use a Blanket?

Safety is everything to a parent, and knowing when it's safe for your toddler to use a blanket is crucial. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until your child is at least 12 months old before introducing any loose bedding, including blankets. At this stage, toddlers have the motor skills to move blankets away from their faces, reducing the risk of suffocation.

Of course, listen to your parental instincts. Don't rush this change if your little bub isn't ready for a blanket. As long as they're safe, cozy, and content in their sleep sack, let them stay in it as long as possible.

How Do You Know If Your Baby is Ready to Sleep with a Blanket?

Observing your child's behaviour and development helps determine their readiness for a blanket. Here are some signs to look for:

• They sleep peacefully: Your little bub is an excellent sleeper who doesn't move around much during slumber.
• They're growing: Their sleep sack is becoming too restrictive and impacting their sleep quality.
• They can get out of bed independently: If your little one is in a toddler bed, they become more mobile, making blankets a safer choice.
• They have sufficient mobility: Your toddler can roll over and pull the blanket away from their face. They're also becoming more active when wearing their sleep sack, making it a hazard for mobility.
• They can sleep without the sleep bag: During a nap or a night when the sleep bag is in the laundry, your little bub has exhibited that they can sleep comfortably without a sleep sack.
• They express interest in blankets. They may like cuddling up in blankets during the day or may verbally tell you they want a blanket.

If your toddler shows any of these signs, they may be ready to transition from a sleep sack to a blanket.

What if Your Toddler Isn't Ready for Blankets?

If your baby isn't quite ready to have loose blankets on the bed, sleep suits offer an excellent alternative that combines the coziness of a sleep sack with the freedom of a blanket. 

Sleep suits allow for natural movement and promote healthy sleep patterns. They're a perfect option for transitioning toddlers who still need that extra sense of security and warmth without the worry of loose bedding—and at Nest Designs, we carry our ever-so-cozy sleep suits up to a size 6T.

What Type of Blanket Should a Toddler Use?

Choosing the right blanket for your toddler is foundational to ensuring their comfort and safety. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Material: Look for natural, breathable fabrics like organic cotton or sustainable, naturally hypoallergenic bamboo—both of which are plush and gentle on sensitive skin and eco-friendly. (Read more about the benefits of plant-based materials for you and your little ones.)
• Size: Ensure the blanket is appropriately sized for your toddler's crib or bed to prevent entanglement.
• TOG Rating: Select a blanket with a TOG rating that suits your home's temperature to maintain a soothing sleep environment. The right TOG rating keeps your little one at just the right temperature, helping them sleep soundly.

At Nest Designs, our collection of premium toddler blankets is designed with these considerations in mind, providing the ultimate quality and peace of mind.

5 Tips for Making the Transition

Change generally causes temporary disruptions. As with any change for your little one, be prepared for some ups and downs. These are some ways you can ease the transition from a sleep sack to a blanket for your toddler:

1. Wait to transition if other life changes are happening: Too much change can be discombobulating for a toddler. If they're potty training, just moved to a new bed, have a new sibling, or are undergoing other big changes, give them time to settle before changing their sleep routine.
2. Introduce a blanket at naptime: Start using it during daytime naps to help your child get accustomed to it.
3. Gradually transition: Consider layering the blanket over the sleep bag initially and gradually phasing out the sleep sack.
4. Create a cozy routine: Incorporate the blanket into your bedtime routine, allowing your toddler to snuggle with it while you read a bedtime story.
5. Monitor their comfort: Keep an eye on your child's comfort and adjust as needed.

For more in-depth information about bedding for your little love, read our ultimate guide on baby blankets, where we dive deeper into selecting the perfect blanket for your wee one.

Cozy Under the Covers

Transitioning your toddler from a sleep sack to a blanket is a big step in their growth and development. With a little patience, the right approach, and snuggly, healthy bedding, you can ensure this transition is smooth and comforting for your little one. 

Shop our blankets and bedding to discover your toddler's new favourite blanket.