Deciding Between a Sleep Bag or Sleep Bag Walker
Classic sleep bags and sleep sacks with feet are both wonderful sleep cues for your little one. Both signal to your little one that sleep time is near and keep them comfy through the night. But which one is the best choice for your child?
What is a Sleep Bag?
A sleep bag is a wearable blanket or sleep sack. It’s something your child can wear over their pajamas and replaces a loose blanket in the crib which keeps them safe (and warm, since most little ones do not usually keep a blanket on). It’s enclosed at the bottom like a toasty little sleeping bag your baby can wear. Find the perfect fit for your little one for secure snuggles.
Pro tip: It’s best if your sleep sack is sleeveless to allow for air flow, and my favorite feature on Kyte Baby sleep bags is the double zipper! That means you can unzip from the top or the bottom, which makes it so much easier to change diapers at night.
What is a Sleep Bag Walker?
A sleep bag walker is very similar to a sleep bag and has a lot of the same features; however, this walking sleep sack features leg holes, which make it easier for… you guessed it, walking (or standing)! When they’re ready for sleep, they can pull their feet into the sleep bag walker so they stay warm and cozy.
You may also see this referred to as a toddler sleep sack because it comes in larger sizes, typically, and can fit older babies/toddlers for longer periods of time. They often fit from 6 months in the smallest size to 4 years old in the largest size! Kyte Baby sleep sacks with feet come in three different sizes:
- M (18-30 lbs.)
- L (28-42 lbs.)
- XL (38-50 lbs.)
Pro tip: A Kyte Baby sleep sack with feet is also a great option when you’re potty training because it also features a dual zipper.
Which One Do You Choose?
Walking sleep sacks are a great option for any child who may hate something covering their feet. Keep in mind that kicking is a self-soothing mechanism (when it’s rhythmic in nature), so that may be what they’re doing, not just “complaining” about their feet being covered.
However, putting little ones in a sleep sack with feet too early can actually make it easier for them to get their leg up and over the crib-- a classic sleep bag is the better option to deter escape artists from climbing out of their crib!
Some kids prefer to have their feet free, and/or some kids may get tripped up when they’re standing/cruising along the crib when they’re in a traditional sleep bag, so a walking sleep sack is a great alternative! Either way, you’ll want to transition to a sleep sack with feet when you make the switch to a toddler bed.
As always, no matter which option you choose, you’ll want to make sure it’s the right size and TOG for your child. Ensure safe sleep, whether those sweet little tootsies are tucked away or out to play in a sleep bag or walking sleep sack.
Author Bio: Ashley Olson is a certified pediatric sleep consultant, owner of Heaven Sent Sleep, and passionate about helping new parents, experienced parents, desperate and sleep-deprived parents form healthy sleep habits for their
children.
She has over 3 years of experience in working with families and has completed over 150 hours of coursework plus continuing education related to infant and toddler sleep. The focus of her work is on fostering a routine that grows your bond with your child while improving their sleep habits. She specializes in custom sleep plans and one on one support in changing sleep practices!
