Sleeping Bag vs Sleeping Suit: When to Switch (and How to Choose)

If you’re deciding between a baby sleeping bag and a sleeping suit, you’re probably thinking about two things: comfort and practicality. Both are designed to keep little ones warm without loose blankets, but they suit different stages and sleep styles.

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose, plus the most common signs it’s time to switch.

What’s the difference?

Sleeping bag: - A “wearable blanket” style - Often ideal for babies and younger toddlers - Great if your child sleeps mostly lying down

Sleeping suit: - A sleeping bag with legs - Often helpful for older toddlers who stand, walk, and move a lot - Useful for children who dislike the feeling of legs being inside one bag

Shop Sleeping Bags - Shop Sleeping Suits

When a sleeping bag is usually a great choice

Choose a sleeping bag if your child: - Is sleeping in a cot and isn’t climbing/standing much - Stays mostly lying down overnight - Gets tangled in blankets or kicks covers off

When a sleeping suit can be the better option

Consider switching to a sleeping suit if your toddler: - Stands up or cruises in the cot - Tries to climb out - Seems frustrated by restricted leg movement - Wakes frequently after wriggling around

What age should you switch?

There’s no single “right” age. Some toddlers love sleeping bags well into toddlerhood, while others prefer a sleeping suit once they’re more mobile.

A simple rule: switch when your toddler’s movement and independence make a sleeping suit more practical.

How to choose the right TOG in either style

The TOG rules are the same whether it’s a bag or suit: - Choose the TOG based on room temperature - Use the base layer to fine-tune warmth

Read our TOG Guide - Shop 1.0 TOG - Shop 2.5 TOG

Quick checklist: bag or suit?

Pick a sleeping bag if: - Your child sleeps calmly and stays lying down - You want the simplest bedtime setup

Pick a sleeping suit if: - Your child stands up, walks, or wriggles a lot - You want warmth plus freedom of movement

FAQs

Are sleeping suits safe? Sleeping suits are designed for sleep like sleeping bags. Always choose the right size for a secure fit and use the correct TOG for your room temperature.

Will a sleeping suit stop my toddler climbing out? It can help some toddlers by keeping them warm and comfortable while moving, but it won’t replace safe cot setup and supervision.

Can I use the same base layers for both? Yes—vests and sleepsuits are often used under either style. Adjust thickness based on temperature and your child’s comfort.

Which one to buy?

If your toddler is on-the-go at bedtime, explore sleeping suits. If they sleep calmly and you want a simple setup, sleeping bags are a great choice.