The sleeping bag is one of the most loved accessories by new parents. In addition to ensuring a safe sleep for the newborn, it prevents it from being discovered during the night, keeping it warm without the risk of bulky blankets. If you like sewing or are looking for a creative project to make for your baby or to give as a gift, choose the fabrics for babies on Cimmino Shop: we will explain how to make a sleeping bag by yourself and which fabrics to choose for a safe and comfortable result.
What is a sleeping bag and what is it for
The sleeping bag is a kind of padded bag with openings for the arms and often also for the legs, which replaces blankets and sheets in the crib. It is particularly useful in the first months of life, when the baby tends to move a lot in his sleep and could easily be discovered.
It is also considered a valuable ally in preventing the risk of suffocation associated with the use of heavy blankets, as indicated by many paediatric guidelines. In addition, babies feel more content and protected, a bit like in the womb.
Why make a sleeping bag
Today it is easy to find ready-made sleeping bags on the market, but sewing them with your own hands has many advantages:
- You can choose the fabric that best suits the season and sensitivity of your baby’s skin.
- Get a tailor-made accessory, customizable in every detail.
- It is a simple project even for those who have little experience in sewing, but want to test yourself with something useful and creative.
Also, it is a perfect gift if you are preparing a baby shower for a friend or family member.
Recommended fabrics for a DIY sleeping bag
The choice of fabric is one of the most important parts in making a sleeping bag. Opt for natural, breathable and easy to wash fabrics. Here are some perfect options:
- High quality standard cotton: soft, resistant to frequent washing and suitable even for the most sensitive skin.
- Cotton flannel: ideal for the winter, it retains heat without sweating.
- Cotton jersey: elastic and lightweight, perfect for the mid-season.
- Quilted fabrics: ideal for the outside of the sleeping bag, to be combined with a softer inner lining.
The best fabrics for sleeping bags on Cimmino Shop
If you are looking for the ideal online fabrics to make a sleeping bag for your baby, Cimmino Shop offers a selection of high quality materials. Here are some of the best baby fabrics available.
Cotone Stampato Whale cm150
The weight of 107 g/m2 makes it lightweight and breathable, ideal for making a summer sleeping bag or for environments with higher temperatures.
Cotone Digital Enfants
This fabric is also OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, ensuring that it is free of harmful substances and safe for use in baby products. Its lightness makes it suitable for sleeping bags usable throughout the year, perhaps combined with a suitable padding for the colder seasons.
Piquet Trendy Unito
Thanks to its structure, it is particularly resistant and keeps its shape well, making it ideal for a sleeping bag that lasts over time. Available in a variety of colors, allows you to customize the project according to your taste.
Piquet Gioia Nido d’Ape
This makes it particularly suitable for sleeping bags intended for the colder months, ensuring warmth and comfort to the child. The extra width allows you to easily cut larger pieces without joints, improving the aesthetics and functionality of the finished product.
Piquet Lario Nido d’Ape
It is ideal for mid-season sleeping bags, offering a balance between breathability and thermal capacity. Its texture adds a touch of elegance to the finished product, while the composition in pure cotton ensures softness and delicacy on the skin of the newborn.
Piquet Stampato Trendy
The piqué structure gives a light texture to the fabric, while still maintaining good breathability. It is particularly suitable for those who want to make a sleeping bag that combines functionality and aesthetics, while ensuring the comfort of the child.
Tutorial: how to sew a baby sleeping bag
1. Choose your template
You can find free paper templates online by searching for “PDF sack sleeping pattern”. There are both with zip and buttons on the back. Choose the one that seems easiest to do.
2. Prepare the material
You will need:
- Outer fabric (cotton, jersey, flannel…)
- Inner lining (can be the same fabric or a lighter one)
- Light padding (optional)
- Zipper or snap buttons
- Scissors, pins, sewing machine, needle and thread
3. Cutting and stitching
Once the pattern is printed, cut out the fabric as shown. Remember to add 1 cm of seam margin. Start by sewing the outer fabric and lining together (with or without padding), leaving the opening for the zip or buttons. Finish the edges with a zig-zag or cut-sew to prevent them from fading.
4. Final finishing
Insert the zip (or buttons), do a test with the upside down bag to check seams and measurements, and possibly add some decorative detail: a pocket, a cloth application, a name label.
How to wash and maintain the sleeping bag
The sleeping bag, like all accessories for early childhood, must be easy to wash. For this we recommend:
- Always pre-wash fabrics before sewing them, to prevent shrinkage afterwards.
- Wash the sleeping bag at 30-40°C with neutral detergent.
- Avoid using scented fabric softeners, which may irritate the baby’s skin.
- Prefer air drying, but if you use the dryer, set it to gentle mode.
You already know that sleep bags are the safest and best choice for your baby. But with so many types of sleep bags available, do you you know how to choose the right sleep bag for your little angel?
Choosing the wrong sleep bag can make your baby uncomfortable, affect sleep quality, or even compromise comfort and security. From temperature issues to fabric irritation, small details can cause restless nights for both babies and parents.
That’s why this article is your simple sleep sack guide – a clear 4-step checklist to confidently decode and choose the most suitable sleep bag, ensuring absolute comfort and safety for your baby.
Baby's Age and Developmental Stage
Your baby’s age and developmental stage determine the type of sleep bag you choose. This is the first rule in our choosing the right baby sleep bag guide.
Newborn Stage (0-4 months)
At this stage, babies crave snugness that mimics the womb. Therefore, you should choose swaddle sacks or transitional sleep sacks for your baby. They will control the startle reflex and create a secure, cozy environment, helping newborns sleep longer and better.
Rolling Stage (4-6 months+)
When your baby starts rolling, everything changes. At this stage, it is MANDATORY to switch to arm-free sleep bags so babies can use their hands freely and stay safe if they roll over. This adjustment helps avoid overheating or being too cold by ensuring your baby isn’t tangled or restricted during sleep.
Standing and Walking Stage (12 months+)
Once your baby starts standing or taking steps, their sleepwear needs to be changed too. So, sleep bags with feet will be the most suitable choice. This design allows toddlers to stand or move around the crib safely without tripping, supporting their independence while keeping them warm.
Room Temperature and Season
As room temperature and seasonal changes, you should also consider choosing sleep sacks for different seasons. A too-thick bag may lead to overheating, while a too-thin one could leave your baby cold.
Introducing the "Hero": TOG
Instead of guessing how thick the sleep bag should be, rely on TOG Rating – a scientific standard for warmth. TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade, which measures how well a fabric retains heat.
Choosing the right TOG is key to avoiding overheating or being cold, the two enemies of good sleep. This is why TOG is an indispensable part of any sleep sack guide.
How to Choose the Right TOG?
Here’s a simple approach: Check your room temperature, then refer to our detailed TOG guide. For example:
- Low TOG (0.5 TOG): Summer, daytime naps, or warm climates
- Medium TOG (1.0 TOG): Standard room temperatures
- High TOG (2.5 TOG): Cold nights or winter months
Following TOG ratings ensures your baby stays at a safe and comfortable body temperature every night.
Fabric Material
Fabric choice is about more than looks. It determines your baby’s comfort, safety, and sleep quality – a vital part of your choosing the right baby sleep bag decision.
Why Does Material Matter?
Babies’ skin is extremely sensitive. Good fabrics regulate temperature effectively by allowing the skin to breathe, absorb moisture, and prevent irritation. Choosing high-quality fabric is essential for temperature regulation and a peaceful night’s sleep.
Comparing Popular Options
When choosing sleep sack material, many parents wonder which fabric is truly best for their baby. Each option has unique benefits to suit different needs and sensitive skin types. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make the most informed choice.
- Organic Cotton: Soft, durable, breathable – a classic choice for year-round comfort.
- Bamboo: Ultra-soft, superior thermoregulation, and antibacterial. Ideal for babies with eczema or sensitive skin.
- Merino Wool: A natural thermostat. Keeps your baby warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot, ensuring balanced warmth.
- Fleece/Polyester: Warm for winter but less breathable. If used, ensure the inner layers are lightweight and moisture-wicking.
When evaluating options, prioritize fabrics certified for chemical safety standards and eco-friendly sourcing, aligning with your family’s health and sustainability values.
Smart Features
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make the biggest difference in choosing the right baby sleep bag for your child.
Two-Way Zipper
This is one of several must-have sleep sack features to look for when buying a sleep sack. Two-way zippers allow diaper changes from below without removing the entire bag, keeping the baby’s upper body warm and undisturbed. This is the secret to easier nighttime checks, reducing nighttime fuss and keeping sleep on track.
Neck and Armhole Design
These should fit snugly around your baby – not too loose to slip inside, but not too tight to cause discomfort. A good fit ensures safety, warmth, and freedom to move without restriction.
Zipper Guard
Don’t overlook this small detail. A zipper guard is a fabric piece at the top of the zipper that prevents it from scratching your baby’s chin or neck. It protects sensitive skin from irritation and adds to the overall comfort and safety of the sleep bag.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sleep bag isn’t just about style – it’s about safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Here’s a quick recap of the 4 key factors from this sleep sack guide:
- Baby’s Age and Developmental Stage – Match sleep bag type to milestones
- TOG Rating & Room Temperature – Keep your baby warm or cool as needed
- Fabric Material – Ensure breathability, softness, and skin safety
- Smart Features – Two-way zippers, snug necklines, and zipper guards make all the difference
Spending time to choose the right baby sleep bag is not only about ensuring good sleep but also a loving act that brings parents absolute peace of mind, knowing you’ve provided the safest, most comfortable environment for your child.
You now have everything you need to make the best choice. It’s time to act. Explore SwaddleAn sleep sack collections, where every product is designed with understanding and love, giving you the confidence of knowing your baby is safe every night.
