What Is a Weighted Sleep Sack and Its Purpose?

A weighted sleep sack is just as it sounds. It a form of sleep sack that has a little weight to it. But, why would a sleep sack need weight added to it?

These sleep sacks and blankets can calm your nervous system and help babies feel like a hand is on them. This gives them a feeling of reassurance by acting like a hug with a technique called deep pressure stimulation. Just like swaddling helps newborns sleep better, a weighted sleep sack can possibly help your baby sleep better, too. But, does it always work?

Will It Help Your Baby Sleep?

Swaddling your baby keeps your baby sleeping longer when their Moro reflex is strong. But, as your baby gets older and you stop swaddling, do you still need a special type of blanket?

Sleep sacks are safe ways to have a wearable blanket so your baby won’t suffocate. So, sleep sacks are definitely a great investment!

Does the sleep sack have to be weighted?

Not necessarily. A weighted sleep sack can help some babies sleep longer, however. Here are a few types of babies we find can possibly benefit from one:

• If your baby likes when you put a hand on them.
• Your baby seems fussy and/or nervous a lot.
• Your baby still has the Moro reflex but is breaking out of the swaddle or doesn’t like to be swaddled.
• You suspect your baby or toddler has sensory processing challenges.

Of course, as with many tools in your parenting toolbox, sometimes you just have to experiment to find what works for your baby! Many products may improve sleep but some sleep problems can’t be solved with sleepwear, of course. So, whether your baby sleeps better depends on the reasons your baby is waking in the first place.

Safety

Weighted sleep sacks are considered safe as long as the weight isn’t more than 10% of your baby’s body weight. So, if your baby is 10 pounds, the sleep sack should not surpass one pound. And, if your baby is 20 pounds then your sleep sack should not surpass two pounds. As a reminder, you should always choose products that meet or exceed the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission standards and have been tested for a multitude of harmful substances. Be sure to check the safety page on a company’s website for any product you use for your baby as well as check with your pediatrician since they know your baby best.

Dreamland Weighted Sleep Sack

I learned about the Dreamland Weighted Sleep Sack recently and they were kind enough to send me a couple of samples to review. These products are truly top-notch and packaged beautifully! The material is soft and it feels like a superior product compared to many of the sleepwear products out there. Of course, my first question with a newer product is whether it’s safe for your baby. This sleep sack is doctor-approved, exceeds CPSC standards, and is OEKO-TEX^® certified. Dreamland Baby Co has a swaddle, sleep sack, and blanket option. The blanket was one of the best I’ve seen and I wanted to wrap myself into it right away! I come across many baby products and I can confidently recommend this one in a heartbeat. Use The Baby Sleep Site Coupon Code BABYSLEEP15 for 15% Off!

Nested Bean Weighted Sleep Sack

There is one other sleep sack worth mentioning and that is the Nested Bean Gently Weighted Sleep Sack. This is weighted differently, however, with just a light weight on the chest. This mimics your hand on your baby’s chest which is soothing for some babies out there though not all. It’s a good alternative if your baby seems to like that a lot. These two products are different approaches to helping your baby sleep better so your baby’s preference will be a big indicator as to how well they each work (or not).

You might also be interested in: Nested Bean vs. Love To Dream Swaddle Up

In conclusion, a weighted sleep sack can be a good option for babies who are fussier and may need some added comfort. I certainly wish I had these products to try out with my son when he struggled with sleep! Of course, maybe then I wouldn’t have created this website. My goal is to help you solve your sleep problems much faster than I did and I hope this helps!

The post Weighted Sleep Sack For Baby – Are They Safe and Do They Work? appeared first on The Baby Sleep Site - Baby / Toddler Sleep Consultants.

In this blog post, you’ll learn about both products and which we recommend!

Zipadee Zip Swaddle Transition Sleep Sack

We have been recommending the Zipadee Zip for a long time even before they were on the Shark Tank. The Zipadee Zip, created by a company named Sleeping Baby, is a really great invention to help your baby sleep better when it’s time to stop swaddling.

The “wings” of the Zipadee Zip stop your baby from feeling like they are falling when the Moro reflex is still strong. Many babies are ready to transition away from the swaddle before the Moro reflex has gone away, which is where the Zipadee Zip shines. It is safe for sleeping especially when a baby is rolling over and otherwise can’t be swaddled. And, it’s also good for when your baby doesn’t like to be swaddled, yet can’t seem to stay asleep without it.

If your baby has eczema or otherwise scratches herself, the Zipadee Zip will protect the skin. I was always terrible at keeping my baby’s fingernails clipped!

There are many different styles to choose from for the Zipadee Zip. And, although you won’t need the wings as your baby gets older, so many babies like this sleep sack that they make toddler sizes as well!

Nested Bean Sleep Sack

The Nested Bean products are very innovative with the simple premise that sometimes you just need a hand on you to feel comfort. That’s what their lightly-weighted products emulate: the feeling of a parent’s hand on your baby. Of course, there’s no perfect replacement for your hand but it’s a great concept!

While Nested Bean has a few different products, the one you’d compare to the Zipadee Zip would be the Zen Sack^™ which is a sleep sack you use after you’re done swaddling.

The Nested Bean Zen Sack has a 2-way zipper and is lightly weighted with non-toxic poly beads to give just the right amount of pressure on your baby’s chest. Or, you can flip it over if your baby is a tummy sleeper though Back is Best to reduce the risk of SIDS. This sleep sack is made with 100% soft, breathable cotton with a 0.5 TOG. This means it’s lightweight which is very versatile.

Zipadee Zip vs Nested Bean Sleep Sack – Which is Better?

Both the Zipadee Zip and the Nested Bean Sleep Sack are great sleep sacks. But, which is better for your baby’s sleep?

We have worked with families who have used both and clients love both products. As a sleep consultant for over 10 years, I can tell you that either product would be a good choice. We give the edge to the Zipadee Zip simply because many babies won’t sleep better with the “hand on the chest” concept. Most of the babies with which we work need to be picked up to be soothed. We do love the concept but it only seems to “work” for some babies. Therefore, it simply functions as a regular sleep sack. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, but if the weight doesn’t “work” it loses its special-ness. Therefore, we highly recommend the Zipadee Zip for many babies, but there are a few things to consider first:

1. Does your baby use a pacifier?
2. Does your baby like to suck on their thumb, fingers, or hands?
3. Does your baby like to crawl around while self-settling to sleep?

If you answered no to all of these questions, the Zipadee Zip is an excellent choice!

However, if you answered yes to any of these questions, the Zipadee Zip may or may not be the best sleep sack for your baby. And, for that reason, you might choose Nested Bean or another sleep sack. We have a list of the Top 10 Best Sleep Sacks here.

Baby Likes to Suck on Thumb, Fingers, or Hands

If your baby likes to suck on their thumb, fingers, or hands, it may work out fine. Some babies will simply suck their hands through the cloth of the wings. But, if your baby likes to really feel their fingers or thumb inside their mouth mimicking a nipple, this might not work out very well. Some babies will adapt while others will struggle. This can lead to excessive crying during sleep training.

Baby Has a Pacifier

Some babies suck on their pacifier as they fall asleep but then don’t need it again. That would make using the Zipadee Zip work out just fine.

However, some babies struggle with self-settling when they can’t maneuver their own pacifier. We want your baby to be able to wake up between sleep cycles, find their own pacifier, and pop it back in. For these babies, we’d recommend a sleep sack with hands out such as the Zen Sack or the Bitta Kidda with a built-in lovey attached. Use Coupon Code BABYSLEEPSITE319 for 15% OFF!

Baby Likes to Crawl Around or Stand Up

If your baby likes to crawl around the crib as they are self-soothing or stand in the crib, they may prefer to keep their hands free. We haven’t heard many complaints about the Zipadee Zip in this regard, so it’s a minor issue but depending on your baby, it is something to consider.

Zipadee Zip vs Nested Bean – Which to Buy?

If you still don’t know which product to buy and can’t afford to try both, I highly recommend you start with the Zipadee Zip. This is based on over 10 years of working with families and getting reports about which products their babies love. I know based on the experience of many families that your baby is most likely going to LOVE it!

Of course, your baby’s sleepwear is only one variable that impacts your baby’s sleep. And, that’s what we do here at The Baby Sleep Site!

The post Zipadee Zip vs Nested Bean Zen Sleep Sack – Which Is Best for Better Sleep? appeared first on The Baby Sleep Site - Baby / Toddler Sleep Consultants.

According to the latest research, babies that sleep on mattresses previously used by other infants have a higher chance of falling victim to cot death. In fact, as per this research, of the 131 cases of cot deaths, more than half of the infants were believed to be sleeping on used mattresses that had been passed down to them from family members.

The same can’t possibly be said of a gently used mattress, can it? Interestingly enough, the study also revealed that the mattress was more often than not, used previously by babies who lived in an entirely different household.

So, factors such as the mattress coming from another household, the conditions under which it was used, and the number of infants that slept on it, could also play a role in its potential to be a health hazard, and this will be explored below.

If you’re thinking of saving some money by getting a used mattress for your little one, consider the following.

What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

Each year, over 500 babies lose their lives suddenly and this occurrence is often blamed on cot death. Cot death or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplainable sudden death of infants who are less than a year old.

Oftentimes, the death remains unexplainable even after a thorough autopsy has been performed and the scene has been carefully examined.

Second-Hand Mattresses And SIDS

According to a case-controlled study done in Scotland between 1997 to 2000, the use of a second-hand baby mattress can significantly increase the risk of SIDS, especially if the mattress is coming from another household.

The research shows that the risk is more pronounced if the bed was initially slept on by an infant who passed away due to SIDS before the mattress was passed on, or if the mattress was utilized by more than one infant during its lifespan.

The participants in the study were asked to fill in a questionnaire that includes information on infant care practices, such as details on co-sleeping habits on the day and/or night of death. This is in addition to the infant and family’s overall social and medical data.

As believed by some researchers, a toxic bacterium that is feared to be linked with cot death is found on second-hand mattresses.

While the research does reinstate certain points brought out in the initial 1997 study, there is a gap in the evidence that prevents the researchers from wholly attributing sudden infant death syndrome to old mattresses. Suffice to say, the cause and effect relationship between old mattresses and SIDS has not yet been fully established.

But, there’s a valid association between the use of second-hand mattresses and an increased rate of SIDS which parents cannot afford to overlook.

Mattress Solutions For Infants

As a parent, this research may seem a tad bit overwhelming. Your natural parental instinct would be to get rid of the second-hand mattress to ensure your infants’ safety. Despite the inability to establish a cause and effect relationship between second-hand mattresses and SIDS, it is advisable to ditch the old mattress and opt for a brand new mattress for your baby, especially if the used one came from another home.

Buying a new mattress would be the best option, even though some doctors have stated that used mattresses are probably not to blame for SIDS, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Also, be sure to always apply the following requirements by doctors to ensure that your baby’s mattress is safe to use:

1. Mattresses need to be clean:

As a specific requirement, infant mattresses must be cleaned regularly. The suggestion is to buy mattresses with removable and washable PVC covers. The removable covers make it possible to clean the mattress easily and effectively.

With PVC mattresses, each baby born in a house need not have an entirely new mattress. Parents’ ability to wash PVC mattress covers means that they can keep the baby’s mattress clean for longer.

2. Mattresses ought to be sturdy:

For infants, it’s recommended that mattresses shouldn’t be saggy and overly soft. Doctors suggest that new-born babies should sleep on firm and sturdy mattresses. The used mattresses that were found in studies to cause SIDS could have become overly soft over time.

This could be a possible reason why mattresses passed down from one home to another could have been blamed for the cot deaths.

3.Mattresses must be new looking:

While it need not be a spanking new mattress, the mattress must not look dated or aged in any way. Mattresses that show signs of timely deterioration should be thrown away and never reused for infants, as the wear and tear might be a possible health hazard.

4. Babies should sleep on their backs:

For years, elders have recommended that new-born babies sleep on their backs not sleep on their stomach. to avoid SIDS. It seems that there is some wisdom to this, as it has been shown to be the safest and most comfortable sleeping position for baby.

Also, your little one’s cot should be free of any soft toys and excess blankets that might accidentally obstruct their breaking. Taken together, these measures can be very effective at preventing cot deaths.

From the research, it’s evident that much of the power to prevent SIDS is on your hands as a parent. Firstly, you must be aware of all the qualities of the particular mattress that you’re putting your baby to sleep on.

Pay attention to everything and be observant when your baby sleeps. Remember just as you would have the best sleep on a good, firm mattress, your baby is no different. Be aware of the type and quality of the mattress that you buy for your baby as well.

Trust us, your baby is a new mattress away from the best possible sleep ever, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that their chances of going through SIDS is exponentially lower.

This research should never scare you, but should rather empower you to make informed choices when it comes to the wellbeing of your baby.

The post Second-Hand Mattresses Could Increase The Risk Of Cot Death appeared first on The Baby Sleep Site - Baby / Toddler Sleep Consultants.

Zipadee-Zip Sleep Sack

We have been recommending the Zipadee-Zip for a very long time. It’s a great swaddle transition product because your baby will likely feel more secure, allowing them to sleep better at night and at nap time. The primary feature of the Zipadee-Zip is the “wings” that cover your baby’s hands without restricting movement. There are many sizes and patterns available for purchase. The product is of great quality, and we have heard many clients rave about this sleep sack!

Woolino 4 Season Sleep Sack

The Woolino 4 Season Ultimate Baby Sleep Bag Sack has been a top seller for over a decade, and for good reason. Merino wool is very soft, hypoallergenic, and temperature regulating. This award-winning sleep bag isn’t cheap; however, you won’t need to buy separate sacks for different seasons, AND you can use this sleep sack until the age of 2 years old. That means you won’t have to buy a new size every few months like with some of the others. It also has four shoulder snaps and a 2-way zipper for easy dressing and diaper changes. Highly recommend this sleep sack!

Love To Dream Swaddle Up

If you are in the market for a sleep sack but you aren’t sure whether your baby is ready to stop being swaddled just yet, the Love To Dream Swaddle Up Transition Bag is a great choice! It has patented zip-off “wings” so you can easily and gradually help your baby adjust to the “freedom” of being unswaddled. If necessary, you can zip on and off the wings to guide your baby to a sleep sack over time. According to most newborn sleep patterns, your baby will be ready to be unswaddled between 3 and 6 months old. Once you are ready to permanently lose the swaddle, simply keep the wings off for an easier transition.

Halo Sleep Sack

The HALO Sleepsack is a classic, and a great sleep sack for babies. The most notable feature of the HALO Sleepsack is that it has a double zipper to make diaper changes easier. The sleep sack is made from polyester micro-fleece and is sleeveless to reduce the risk of overheating. And, it comes in a variety of sizes, from baby to toddler, as well as colors. It also comes with a reminder to put your baby on their back to sleep. We think this sleep sack is a solid choice, and it’s not as expensive as some of the others.

Bitta Kidda Sleep Sack

The Bitta Kidda Soother Sleeping Bag is very innovative. It is unsafe to have anything loose in the crib with your baby until they are at least a year old. But, this sleep sack comes with an attached lovey, which can help your baby learn to self-soothe without being able to lose the lovey, or throw it out of the crib. This is perfect for tactile babies like my second son once you start sleep training. This sleep sack also has a patent-pending diagonal zipper to make diaper changes easier, but not so easy that your baby can unzip it themselves. This can become an issue as your baby becomes a toddler who wants to skip a nap. There is also an internal diaper cover similar to a onesie so the sleep sack moves with your baby. Very clever! Use Coupon Code BABYSLEEPSITE319 for 15% OFF!

Baby DeeDee Sleep Nests

Baby DeeDee^® sleep sacks, also called sleep nests, are highly rated and they have a patented shoulder snap design that allows you to put the sleep sack on without waking your baby. The oversized custom zipper toggle makes diaper changes very easy and they have different sleep sacks for different seasons and climates. The vision for these sleep sacks is a cocoon-like shape for maximum comfort for your baby. They also have super cute pajamas, too! USE COUPON CODE BABYSLEEPSITE for 15% Off!

Burt’s Bees Wearable Blanket

The Burt’s Bees Wearable Blanket is nothing fancy but highly-rated. It is 100% cotton, comes in a variety of colors and patterns, and has a double zipper for easier diaper changes like many of the others. The price is right, and if your baby doesn’t need any “bells and whistles,” this is a great way to have a safe blanket on your baby. Keep in mind, it isn’t the warmest of blankets, so be sure to dress your baby appropriately and set the room temperature to be conducive to sleep

Simple Joy’s by Carter’s Sleeping Bag

These wearable blankets, Simple Joys by Carter’s are another highly-rated 100% cotton sleep sack we recommend. There is a tab on the sack that covers the zipper to keep it away from your baby’s chin and neck. That makes it harder for your toddler to unzip it (which can become a problem). These are definitely budget-friendly, given they are sold in a pack of 3, and will get the job done! The biggest drawback is finding these in larger sizes.

Amazing Baby Transitional Swaddle Sack

The Amazing Baby Transitional Swaddle Sack is another product that can help your baby transition from swaddle to sleep sack more easily. The mitten cuffs cover your baby’s hands, which will gently suppress the moro reflex. But, it is not as restrictive as a swaddle. This means if your baby rolls onto their tummy, they can use their arms to lift themselves up, which is important for safety. You can take one or both mittens off to allow your baby to self-soothe by using their hands and fingers. As with most of the others options, this sleep sack has a 2-way zipper to help with diaper changes and is 100% cotton.

TILLYOU All-Season Micro-Fleece Baby Sleep Bag

The TILLYOU micro-fleece baby sleep bag is another all-season sleep sack, according to the manufacturer. This sleep sack comes in a variety of sizes and also has the double-zipper with a cover at the top to protect your baby’s skin. This is not a fancy sleep sack and comes in basic colors. If you like simple, this is a great choice for you and your baby.

You Might Also Be Interested In: Zipadee Zip vs. Love To Dream Swaddle Up

The post Top 10 Best Sleep Sacks in 2022 for Better Baby Sleep appeared first on The Baby Sleep Site - Baby / Toddler Sleep Consultants.

In this blog post, you’ll learn about both products and which we recommend!

Zipadee Zip Swaddle Transition Sleep Sack

We have been recommending the Zipadee Zip for a long time even before they were on the Shark Tank. The Zipadee Zip, created by a company named Sleeping Baby, is a really great invention to help your baby sleep better when it’s time to stop swaddling.

The “wings” of the Zipadee Zip stop your baby from feeling like they are falling when the Moro reflex is still strong. Many babies are ready to transition away from the swaddle before the Moro reflex has gone away, which is where the Zipadee Zip shines. It is safe for sleeping especially when a baby is rolling over and otherwise can’t be swaddled. And, it’s also good for when your baby doesn’t like to be swaddled, yet can’t seem to stay asleep without it.

If your baby has eczema or otherwise scratches herself, the Zipadee Zip will protect the skin. I was always terrible at keeping baby’s fingernails clipped!

There are many different styles to choose from for the Zipadee Zip. And, although you won’t need the wings as your baby gets older, so many babies like this sleep sack that they make toddler sizes as well!

Love To Dream Swaddle

The Love To Dream Swaddle is another great product to help your baby sleep better. But, unlike the Zipadee Zip, this is a swaddling product. It is meant to capitalize on all the benefits of swaddling but make it easy to swaddle your baby. It also makes it hard for your baby to break out! Breaking out of the swaddle is a safety hazard.

In addition, the Love To Dream is designed to help you swaddle your baby with their arms up rather than down by their sides. This is typically more comfortable to your baby which can lead to longer stretches of sleep.

The Love To Dream Swaddle also has dual zippers, one at the top and one at the bottom, to make diaper changes easier and faster.

The really cool design of the Love To Dream Swaddle is that it has “wings” too. But, these wings are meant to zip off when your baby is ready to be unswaddled. This will allow your baby to find his or her hands for self-soothing and allow them to push up if they roll onto their tummy.

Zipadee Zip vs Love To Dream – Which is Better?

Both the Zipadee Zip and the Love To Dream are great products. But, which is better for your baby’s sleep?

We have worked with families who have used both and clients love both products. As a sleep consultant for over 10 years, I can tell you that either product would be a good choice. However, the age of your baby may influence which you buy.

Newborns, Pregnant Moms, or a Baby Shower Gift

If you have a newborn, you’re pregnant and doing research, or if you’re buying as a gift, I recommend you purchase the Love To Dream Swaddle UP which is appropriate for newborns. The newborn size does not have zip-off wings but you don’t need them. Once your newborn weighs 13+ pounds, I recommend the Love To Dream Swaddle Up Transition Sleep Sack with Zip-Off Wings.

The benefits of swaddling are clear and your baby will most likely appreciate the snug feeling of being swaddled. The Love To Dream is much snugger than the Zipadee Zip. And, your baby will likely be in the swaddle for at least 2-3 months, if not longer. So, your purchase will be well worth the added hours of sleep you will likely get!

And, when your baby is ready to move away from swaddling, you can zip off one or both wings for an easier transition to a sleep sack. Voila!

However, some babies don’t sleep well once their arms are free, of course! Try giving your baby a week or so to get used to it. If your baby struggles with having their hands completely free, you can then consider adding a Zipadee Zip to your toolbox. For some families, having both is perfectly reasonable! They really address two different time periods in a baby’s life.

4+ Month Olds and/or Baby is Rolling

If your baby is nearing, or older than 4 months old, we recommend you transition to a sleep sack with hands out. Once your baby is rolling from back to tummy, it is no longer safe to swaddle.

But, do you use a Zipadee Zip?

We highly recommend the Zipadee Zip for many babies, but there are a few things to consider:

1. Does your baby use a pacifier?
2. Does your baby like to suck on their thumb, fingers, or hands?
3. Does your baby like to crawl around while self-settling to sleep?

If you answered no to all of these questions, the Zipadee Zip is an excellent choice!

However, if you answered yes to any of these questions, the Zipadee Zip may or may not be the best sleep sack for your baby.

Baby Likes to Suck on Thumb, Fingers, or Hands

If your baby likes to suck on their thumb, fingers, or hands, it may work out fine. Some babies will simply suck their hands through the cloth of the wings. But, if your baby likes to really feel their fingers or thumb inside their mouth mimicking a nipple, this might not work out very well. Some babies will adapt while others will struggle. This can lead to excessive crying during sleep training.

Baby Has a Pacifier

Some babies suck on their pacifier as they fall asleep but then don’t need it again. That would make using the Zipadee Zip work out just fine.

However, some babies struggle with self-settling when they can’t maneuver their own pacifier. We want your baby to be able to wake up between sleep cycles, find their own pacifier, and pop it back in. For these babies, we’d recommend a sleep sack with hands out such as the Bitta Kidda with a built-in lovey attached. Use Coupon Code BABYSLEEPSITE319 for 15% OFF!

You can use the Love To Dream sleep sack with the wings zipped off, but if you don’t already have it, there’s not much use for the wings. It defeats the purpose and it doesn’t make much sense to buy the Love To Dream, in my opinion. If you’re planning to have more babies, however, you can consider it an investment!

Baby Likes to Crawl Around or Stand Up

If your baby likes to crawl around or stand in the crib, it can be a little harder with the Zipadee Zip but we don’t hear too many complaints about it so it would be a more minor issue. If your baby is good at playing independently, they may prefer to have their hands free.

Zipadee Zip vs Love To Dream – Which to Buy?

If you still don’t know which product to buy and can’t afford to try both, I highly recommend you start with the Zipadee Zip. This is based on over 10 years of working with families and getting reports about which products their babies love. I know based on the experience of many families that your baby is most likely going to LOVE it!

Of course, your baby’s sleepwear is only one variable that impacts your baby’s sleep. And, that’s what we do here at The Baby Sleep Site!

You May Also Be Interested In…

• Zipadee Zip vs Nested Bean Zen Sleep Sack
• Should You Wean From the Zipadee Zip Before or After Sleep Training?

The post Zipadee Zip vs Love To Dream Swaddle Up – Which is Better for Baby’s Sleep? appeared first on The Baby Sleep Site - Baby / Toddler Sleep Consultants.

Using white noise can lengthen your baby’s naps and help your baby sleep through the night – but how, exactly, should you use white noise? Should you use white noise all night long? How loud is too loud? Are some kinds of white noise better than others? We’re answering those questions – and more! – in this article.

How (And Why) To Use White Noise For Babies

1. Choose low-pitched, steady white noise sounds.
2. Limit the amount of time your baby is exposed to white noise.
3. Consider adjusting the white noise’s volume to match the volume of your baby’s cries.
4. When used correctly, white noise can become a positive sleep association that actually helps your baby fall asleep (and stay asleep).

1. Choose low-pitched, steady white noise sounds.

There isn’t a “right” white noise sound for your baby – all of the white noise sounds that come pre-programmed into a machine or an app are low-pitched white noise. That is, they are white noise sounds that are easy to ignore and that create a steady, monotonous, and soothing backdrop of sound. High-pitched white noise sounds are those harsh, high sounds like the beep of an alarm clock or the wail of a fire engine. Obviously, those aren’t exactly soothing, and they’re terrible for sleep! However, you want to watch out for deceptive white noise sounds that might contain high-pitched noises; for instance, some ocean white noise is full of low-pitched sound like crashing waves, but sometimes, it’s also punctuated by high-pitched sounds like seagull cries. You want to select something that is consistently steady and low-pitched for your baby.

2. Limit the amount of time your baby is exposed to white noise.

White noise is great for use at nap time and during the night – but be careful about relying on it too heavily. For one thing, you want your child to gradually become accustomed to all of the customary sounds in your home. For instance, if you live by a busy intersection, your baby will eventually have to get used to traffic noise. Exposure to different kinds of sounds will also be educational for your baby. For instance, over time, she’ll learn that the sound of the doorbell means that someone new is at the door. While you don’t have to teach your baby to sleep through noise, you do want to ensure that your baby has the chance to get comfortable with your home’s normal, daily sounds.

3. Consider adjusting the white noise’s volume to match the volume of your baby’s cries.

When your baby is wailing at top volume, you’ll want to ensure that your white noise is at least as loud as your child; in order for the white noise to be calming, your baby needs to be able to hear it over her cries. As she quiets down and settles in, however, you can lower the volume so that it’s loud enough to mask outside noises while not being overpoweringly loud. Of course, this kind of volume adjusting can be tricky, and it’s certainly not a “must”; you can just set your white noise to a mid-level volume and leave it. But for young babies (newborns in particular), adjusting the volume with their cries can be really soothing.

4. When used correctly, white noise can become a positive sleep association.

Some sleep associations are unhelpful; for instance, if your baby associates being rocked or held or nursed by you with falling asleep, then you’ll have to perform that work each time he wakes well past the point where you’re okay doing this. These are the kind of sleep associations we typically try to eliminate via the process of sleep training. However, some sleep associations can be positive – and white noise is one of them! If your baby associates white noise with falling asleep, the sound of it can be a strong signal that it’s time to go to bed, or that it’s time to fall back to sleep. And what’s great is that using white noise requires virtually no work on your part – simply turn it on at the end of the bedtime or nap time routine, and you’re all set!

White Noise Products We Love

This simple and inexpensive white noise machine is very light-weight which makes it great for traveling! It has white noise, water, rain, ocean, crickets, and three lullabies for sounds and you can use a timer with it. It has a night light and makes a great shower gift!

Marpac Dohm White Noise MachineNothing fancy and not very cute, but simple and effective! And, they have a portable white noise machine, too.

Bubzi Co Baby Sleep Aid Okay, so it’s not just a white noise machine…it’s a white noise machine, night light, and lovey rolled into one cute little device!

 
 
This is one serious white noise machine. It boasts 10 different fan sounds at varying frequencies, and its volume is incredibly precise, making it easy to adjust your white noise based on what’s happening in your home at any given moment. You can let this machine run all night long, or you can use the built-in timer for automatic shut-off.

How do you use white noise for your baby? Share your tips and stories below; we love hearing from you!

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Lots of parents assume that a night light is one of those baby essentials that every nursery requires. After all, a well-placed night light can reduce the fumbling usually associated with middle-of-the-night diaper changes and feedings. But is a night light distracting to your baby? Do you really need one? What kind of night light should you buy? Keep reading for our baby night light do’s and don’ts, as well as a list of our top 5 favorite baby night lights!

Baby Night Light Do’s and Don’ts

1. DO place the light close the areas of the room that you’ll need to use at night, but DON’T place the light too close to your child’s sleeping area.
2. DO ensure that the light is low-wattage and dim enough that it won’t disturb your child’s sleep.
3. DON’T use a night light that casts cool, blue-toned light, but DO use one that casts warm, red- or yellow-toned light.
4. DON’T assume you or your baby will need a night light; you might not!
5. DO try a night light as your baby grows, if he suddenly develops nighttime fears or separation anxiety.

1. DO place the light near areas you’ll use, but DON’T place it too close to your child’s sleeping area.

When your baby is young, the night light is really more for you than for him; it can really help facilitate middle-of-the-night diaper changes and night feedings. So place the night light near the areas of your baby’s nursery that YOU will use, like the changing table or the glider. But be sure not to place it too close to your baby’s sleeping area, as even dim, soft light can be distracting for some babies and can interfere with sleep.

2. DO ensure the light is low-wattage and dim.

This probably goes without saying, but you don’t want your night light to be too bright! 4-7 watts is typical for most night lights. You’ll also want to be sure that the light itself is shaded and diffuse, so that your baby isn’t disturbed by any harsh glare.

3. DON’T use a light that has blue tones, but DO use one that casts warm red or yellow tones.

Fun fact: did you know that blue light is bad for sleep? It’s true! Blue light interferes with the body’s production of melatonin, a natural, sleep-inducing hormone. This is one huge reason why we never recommend keeping a TV in your child’s room, and why many experts advise that children should stop all screen time a few hours before bed. So avoid blue-toned night lights; instead, opt for night lights that give off warm, red- or yellow-toned light.

4. DON’T assume you and your baby need a night light.

It’s interesting – a lot of parents assume that a night light is necessary, but this isn’t always the case. For one thing, some babies really are distracted by night lights and have trouble falling asleep in a room that has any light at all (baby temperament has a lot to do with this). And if the light turns on and off by itself (when it senses daylight, for example, or when it senses motion), that might be doubly-distracting for your child. And don’t assume you need one, either; lots of parents have told us that leaving the nursery door cracked open and using the light from the hallway for diaper changes and feedings works just fine.

5. DO try a night light as your baby grows, especially if he develops nighttime fears.

You may find you can do without a night light at first, but as your baby grows, a night light might become useful. Some parents find, for instance, their children get anxious about being left alone in the dark as they grow older; this is probably natural nighttime fears mixed with some separation anxiety. A night light can really help in instances like this; it can provide a little reassurance and comfort in the middle of the night. Nighttime fears can become a real problem during the toddler years, too, so even if you manage without a nightlight for a while, don’t hesitate to try one out if your two-year old is suddenly afraid of the dark.

Our Top 5 Night Light Recommendations

Greenic Dusk-to-Dawn LED Nightlight (in Amber)

This night light is super basic, but also super effective! It casts just enough diffuse light to help you find your way around for diaper changes and feedings, but not so much that it’ll make it hard for your baby to sleep. Just be sure to buy one in a warm color; we like the amber-colored one best.

Albrillo Baby Night Light

  The Albrillo Night Light is a customizable light with a rechargeable battery that lasts 200 or 6 hours in dimmest or brightest settings, respectively. And, the bottom button disables touch control and boosts brightness by 30% for outdoor visibility, if you like to go camping and the like. What we really love is that you can touch the top for half a second to enter night light mode for breastfeeding at night, for example, or you can tap the logo twice to set a 1-hour timer to comfort your toddler to sleep. This way, your toddler has a night light as he goes to sleep, but it won’t wake him in the middle of the night.

Bubzi Co. Penguin Plush & Projector

This adorable little elephant doubles as a night light and a lullaby player; it plays 10 different lullabies and projects a beautiful, soft starlight scene for a total of 30 minutes before automatically shutting off. This could work as a great bedtime routine tool; to signal to your baby that your routine is over and that it’s time to go to sleep, simply turn on this little plush owl. Note that some babies might find the starlight scene distracting; however, the projected image doesn’t move, so it should work for most babies. The added benefit here is that this little plush owl is portable; it runs on batteries, meaning you can easily move it around your home (from pack-n-play to crib, perhaps), or take it on the go. Best of all – by purchasing this Bubzi Co. product, you’re giving back! A percentage of every Bubzi Co. purchase is donated to Postpartum Support International, an organization that helps new moms look after their perinatal mental health.

Space / Animal Projector Night Light

This may or may not make a good baby night light; the moving stars or animals and multi-colored lights might prove too distracting. However, your toddler might really love it! This projector offers soft light that’ll keep your toddler feeling comfortable and secure, and it also projects a rotating scene that could be just the thing to keep an antsy toddler interested (and in bed!). If you have a jack-in-the-box toddler who is constantly popping out of bed or who finds bedtime boring, this nightlight might be a great choice. In addition, this could be another great bedtime routine ender – if you consistently end your routine by turning on the projector, it could send a strong signal to your toddler that it’s time to settle in and go to sleep.

Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight

Oh my GOSH, is this thing adorable! This portable little nightlight (another owl!) could work well for babies and for toddlers. It casts a nice warm glow, and it’s also small and portable, meaning it’ll travel well. What’s more, this light automatically shuts off after 15 minutes – but if your toddler wakes in the night and wants her night light on, she can simply press a button for another 15 minutes of light. Extra bonus – your toddler can carry this with her for middle-of-the-night trips to the potty! And you can easily move it around your baby’s room as needed.

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Benefits of Swaddling Your Baby

When your baby is swaddled, he or she is taken back to the days in the womb, when everything was comfortable, safe and snug.

Swaddling has a number of key benefits for both parents and babies – when done correctly and safely:

• Babies who are swaddled sleep longer and more soundly.
• Swaddled babies experience less anxiety.
• Swaddling prevents unnecessary wake-ups due to the startle reflex.
• Using a swaddle eliminates the need for comfort items in baby’s crib – no pillows, bumpers, blankets, stuffed animals, etc. (using these items in crib have been linked to SIDS)
• A swaddled baby can’t scratch their face.
• Swaddling mimics touch, which is important for baby especially when they wake up at night.
• Wearing a swaddle helps maintain baby’s back-sleeping position and also reminds tired parents to place baby on back to sleep.
• Swaddling soothes babies with colic (again, when swaddled, they feel secure and safe just like they felt in the womb).
• Using a swaddle with baby in the hands-over-heart position is the preferred sleeping position for babies; in this position, they learn to self-soothe and can get back to sleep on their own.
• Swaddling benefits parents too — when baby sleeps more, mom and dad sleep more!

Safe Swaddling Tips

Over the last 20 years, we’ve learned how to swaddle safely. It’s safe to say we have come far from the tightly wrapped, mummy-style swaddle bands and swaddle boards! Learning to correctly swaddle baby is key to ensuring safety and effectiveness. Here are seven tips:

1. Do not over-swaddle

   Over-swaddling or using double swaddle blankets can lead to overheating. This factor has been linked to SIDS. Signs of an overheated baby include damp hair and sweating. Today parents can use swaddles that are specifically designed to allow excess heat to escape which provides ventilation for baby.

2. Make sure the swaddle won’t unravel

   A loose blanket can end up covering your baby’s airway.



3. Position baby “hands-over-heart”

   In the past, it was traditional to swaddle baby’s arms at his/her sides, but this can cause joint problems and limits mobility. Place baby’s hands over the chest before wrapping, or with a swaddle sack that requires no wrapping, put baby in, place baby’s hands over chest, and zip!

4. Don’t swaddle too tightly

   Rather than a blanket, use a specially made baby swaddle that hugs baby comfortably but allows for natural movement of the legs/hips to prevent hip issues like hip dysplasia.

5. Place baby on his/her back to sleep

   When baby sleeps on his/her tummy he is more likely to rebreathe his own exhaled air and start to overheat, both of which can lead to SIDS. Remember: “back is best.”

6. Stop swaddling when baby begins to roll

   When baby begins to roll, this is a good time to consult with your pediatrician or a baby sleep consultant on whether or not swaddling should be continued. Usually, you want to transition baby to arms-free sleep once baby begins to roll, but some pediatricians are now saying that swaddling is safe even after baby begins to roll as long as the crib is free from all suffocation hazards such as bumpers pillows toys, and blankets. When it’s time to transition, an arms-free sleep sack is a wonderful tool so baby can feel snug but with their arms free.

7. Don’t swaddle all day

   Babies need freedom to move around and learn their bodies. Even if your little one loves being wrapped up all day, give him/her time to develop and leave the swaddling for sleep time.

Most people use swaddling during the newborn stage and begin to phase it out before six months. Some babies like being swaddled up to nine months, and that’s perfectly fine so long as you are using an arms-free sleep sack once baby begins to roll. At some point though your baby will prefer the freedom outside the swaddle and struggle to break out. Click to read more about when and how to stop swaddling.

Note: Each baby is different; some babies resist swaddling from the very beginning, although this is rare. All newborns put up a little bit of a fight, but they quickly accept the feelings of security and peace the swaddle affords them.