As a parent, you may sometimes wonder if your baby is too hot or too cold. It can be tricky to gauge, especially for newborns. Babies are still learning to regulate their body temperature, so it’s important to ensure they are neither too warm nor too cold. In fact, it’s generally better for your baby to be slightly too cold than too warm! Luckily, there are guidelines in place to help you dress and tuck in your little one, so they can sleep safely without overheating or getting too chilly. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the TOG value and how it can help ensure your baby sleeps comfortably.

Common Sense: Checking Your Baby’s Temperature

As you know, a too-warm bed can be uncomfortable. You may feel overheated and need to kick off the covers. Your baby can’t do this on their own, so it’s important to check them regularly. Does their head feel too warm? Are their feet or neck too cold? Are they sweaty or clammy? These signs can help you gauge their comfort.

It’s especially important to keep an eye on your baby’s temperature if they have a cold or fever. The heat needs to escape, so ensure they’re not too bundled up. It’s also helpful to regularly check the room temperature. Remember: it’s always better for your baby to be slightly cooler than too warm.

Why Keeping Your Baby Cool is Important

Research shows that babies can overheat if their bed is too warm or ‘too full.’ Babies who are wrapped too snugly or who sleep with pillows and heavy duvets may end up with their face against bedding that restricts airflow. Overheating can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), so it’s vital to avoid excessive warmth. If your baby is too warm, their body temperature can rise to unhealthy levels, especially in a heated room.

Keep the room temperature around 18°C (65°F)—this is considered the ideal temperature for your baby to sleep safely and comfortably.

Understanding the TOG Value: A Guide to Baby Bedding

When it comes to making sure your little one is comfortable, using your common sense is the best approach. But there’s also a useful tool to help you manage temperature: the TOG value.

The TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) value is a rating system that indicates how well a fabric retains body heat. The higher the TOG value, the better it insulates. So, if the room is cooler, you’ll need bedding with a higher TOG. Conversely, in warmer rooms, a lower TOG value is better.

TOG values typically range from 0 to 4, with higher numbers suited to colder environments. It's important to note that TOG values are designed for use in room temperature settings and should not be applied to outdoor conditions.

TOG Rating Explained:

• TOG 0.5 – 1.0: Ideal for warmer rooms (20°C and above)
• TOG 1.5 – 2.5: Suitable for room temperatures around 18°C
• TOG 3.0 – 4.0: Perfect for cooler environments (below 18°C)

When to Use TOG in Baby Bedding

You can find TOG ratings on baby sleeping bags, swaddles, blankets, and other bedding products. Make sure you check the TOG value before purchasing to ensure your baby will be comfortable, no matter the temperature.

TOG Value and Baby Sleep Safety: A Final Thought

While the TOG value is a helpful guide, your own judgement and regular checks on your baby’s comfort are essential. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature like adults, so it’s important to create the ideal sleep environment for them. A room temperature of 18°C is generally perfect, and using the appropriate TOG-rated bedding will help keep your baby safe, comfortable, and able to get the rest they need.

Note: You should not add TOG values together. This is because of the insulating air layer between two layers of fabric. This air layer always creates extra warmth. Trust your instincts and use your common sense.