TOG rating for your baby

TOG rating: how to dress your baby safely and comfortably for sleep

As a parent, you want one thing above all else: for your baby to sleep safely, warmly and comfortably. But how can you tell if your baby is warm enough? And when is a sleeping bag too warm? The TOG rating helps you make the right choice. In this article, we explain what TOG is, how to use it, and how to dress your baby safely according to the guidelines of Veiligheid.nl and KCKZ, in line with Dutch safety recommendations.

What is a TOG rating and why is it important?

TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade. It indicates how well a fabric retains heat:

• High TOG = warmer
• Low TOG = cooler

You will usually find the TOG rating on the label of sleeping bags, blankets, and sometimes sleepwear.

Babies cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults. They cannot remove blankets or clothing if they become too warm. Overheating can be dangerous and increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Choosing the right combination of clothing and TOG rating is therefore essential.

Recommended room temperature according to Dutch safety guidelines

According to Veiligheid.nl and KCKZ, the ideal bedroom temperature for your baby is 16–18°C.

Keep the following in mind:

• prefer using a sleeping bag instead of loose blankets.
• avoid unnecessary clothing layers.
• regurlarly check your baby’s neck using the back of your fingers:
  • Warm and dry → comfortable
  • Clammy or sweaty → too warm, remove a layer
  • Cool (but not cold) → add a layer

Tip: Hands and feet may feel cool. This is normal and not a reliable indicator of core body temperature.

Which TOG rating and clothing to choose at different temperatures

The table below provides a practical guideline based on Dutch safety recommendations. Add together the TOG values of clothing and the sleeping bag to estimate the total warmth.

This guidance applies when your baby sleeps in a sleeping bag without additional blankets or duvets.

Important: Not all products display a TOG rating, as this is not legally required. Always check your baby’s neck and use your judgement. Every baby is different.

How to choose the right sleeping bag

The correct size is essential for safety:

• make sure the neck and arm openings are not too large, to prevent your baby slipping down inside the bag.
• choose a sleeping bag with a zip that closes from the bottom upwards to prevent your baby opening it.
• when using a sleeping bag, additional bedding is usually unnecessary.
• if you do use bedding, choose a thin sleeping bag combined with a light sheet or blanket.
• never combine a sleeping bag with a duvet.

Why you should avoid layering over a thick sleeping bag

Veiligheid.nl and KCKZ emphasise that more layers increase the risk of overheating, especially in young babies.

Safety tips:

• Choose one properly fitting sleeping bag, rather than layering multiple items.
• Do not use blankets with a thick sleeping bag.
• Avoid hats during sleep. Babies release heat through their heads, and hats can increase overheating risk.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• thick sleeping bag combined with blankets → increases overheating risk
• too many clothing layers → may cause overheating at normal room temperatures
  • room temperature too high → 23–24°C is too warm; aim for 16–20°C

According to KCKZ, a temperature of 16–18°C is ideal, provided your newborn can maintain their own body temperature.

TOG ratings and seasons: making it easier

Many parents find it helpful to use a seasonal approach. At BabyManager, we see that having a simple seasonal system provides reassurance:

• Summer: lightweight muslin sleeping bag (0.2–0.5 TOG), short-sleeved bodysuit
• Spring/Autumn: 1.0–1.5 TOG sleeping bag, long-sleeved bodysuit, optional thin pyjamas
• Winter: 2.5 TOG sleeping bag (without blankets), bodysuit and pyjamas

Always consider the actual room temperature and how your baby feels.

Final thoughts

Use TOG guidelines as a helpful tool, not a strict rule. Regularly check the room temperature and feel your baby’s neck to ensure they are comfortable. This helps your baby sleep safely, comfortably, and at the right temperature.

With tools from BabyManager, you can track clothing layers, room temperature, and sleep conditions—helping you discover what works best for your baby.