Sleepsacks have been in use in Europe for years. The major factor behind their recent popularity in the United States can be attributed to concerns about baby safety. Guidelines about crib safety specifically state that the crib should not contain any loose material when the baby is sleeping. Heavy blankets or other objects are potentially dangerous for the baby. There are also standard specifications with regards to the height, size and the quality of material that should be used for cribs. Such guidelines also include the size of the mattress in relation to the crib and tight fitting sheets. In short, the guidelines state that any bedding accessory that is left loose in the crib is potentially dangerous for the baby.

It was felt that a sleepsack may not be warm enough for the baby to use in colder climates. Keeping this specific parental concern in mind, some sleepsack manufacturers have developed sleepsacks that can be used in colder climates. Sleepsacks are now available in a quilted material as well. A quilted baby sleepsack is either made of multiple layers sewn together or filled with cotton battings.

Babies tend to move their arms and legs while sleeping. There is a possibility that a heavy blanket or a loose fitting sheet may accidentally cover the head of the child and cause suffocation.  A sleepsack is designed to ensure that this does not happen since it is a blanket that can be worn. It is a singular combination of a blanket and a traditional sleeping bag. The fabric used is soft but the weight is comparable to a light baby blanket. At the same time, it is similar in comfort and structured as a sleeping bag.

Depending upon the style, a sleepsack can be zipped from the side or the front. To avoid accidental unzipping, the zip works from the inside and therefore cannot be unzipped by the baby. This also facilitates diaper change because there is no need to remove the sleepsack to do so.

Having decided to opt for a quilted sleepsack rather than conventional baby blanket, the only thing that you need to ensure is that the fabric, including the fill, is made of organically produced cotton or wool. Even cotton and wool is sometimes treated with chemicals that can ultimately harm your baby.

References:

http://www.123-go-baby.com/baby-products.html  
http://www.mainstreetmom.com/kids/baby.htm  
http://ezinearticles.com/?Baby-Room-Ideas&id=692784  
http://www.5thavenuehotel.com/article.cfm/id/71928  
http://www.maternitycorner.com/mcmag/articles/  
http://www.sleepdisordersguide.com/sleep-sack.html
http://littlefornow.com/catalog.php?item=74
http://www.kohlrbaby.com/2005/05/sleepsacks-and-sids-prevention.php

Back To Top