What are TOG ratings?
Many parents and caregivers are confused when it comes to choosing the right thermal pajama for their baby, especially when it comes to picking the right TOG (Total Heat Gauge). This decision is not a simple one as each baby perceives temperature differently, environmental conditions vary, and different clothing and sleepwear combinations provide different warmth levels.
That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive TOG guide designed to simplify dressing your baby and ensure optimal comfort. This guide covers what TOG levels mean and why they’re important, and provides practical advice on choosing the right baby clothes. Whether you want to know what TOG is, need a TOG chart, are looking for a guide to dressing for the hottest weather, or are just curious ‘what does TOG mean’, this guide is the perfect resource for you.
What does TOG mean?
TOG stands for “Total Warmth Grade” and is an industry-recognized measure of the warmth of clothing and bedding. In short: the lower the TOG rating, the lighter the fabric. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the fabric.
Here is a set of guidelines to help parents and caregivers understand which TOG values are appropriate for different room temperatures:
0.2 TOG – for temperatures between 24°C and 27°C
1.0 TOG – for temperatures between 20°C and 24°C
1.5 TOG – for temperatures between 18°C and 22°C
2.5 TOG – for temperatures between 16°C and 20°C
3.5 TOG – for temperatures below 16°C
Why is TOG important?
Babies can’t tell if they’re too hot or too cold, and their ability to regulate body temperature is poor, making it difficult for parents to determine which sleepwear or swaddle will keep them warm, comfortable, and safe. Proper warmth is critical because overheating increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Studies have shown that clothing and bedding with a high TOG rating may increase the risk of SIDS. Knowing the TOG rating of a swaddle or sleeping bag can help parents more easily choose the right warmth product to keep their baby safe and comfortable.
How to choose the right TOG-rated sleepwear for your baby?
The easiest way to choose the right TOG-rated sleepwear for your baby is to match it based on the room temperature and the TOG rating. Here are two simple steps to help you choose the right Love to Dream products:
1. Understand the room temperature: Measure the temperature of your baby's room before purchasing children's sleepwear.
2. Refer to the TOG temperature chart: Choose the right clothes for your baby based on the room temperature recommendations in the table below.
TOG temperature chart
Miozing is committed to helping parents choose the products and fabrics from our product range that best suit their children's needs. Our products are designed in a variety of designs from single-layer fabrics to three-layer structures, some with built-in quilting functions, to adapt to a variety of temperatures from warm to cold. This table provides a reference for infant and toddler clothing, but the number of layers may need to be adjusted due to the different perception of cold and heat, health conditions, physiological needs and room temperature of each baby. Parents or caregivers should choose the right sleepwear and clothing combination based on actual conditions.
Warm Tips: Due to the different perceptions of cold and heat, ambient temperature fluctuations, health conditions and the warmth of clothing combinations, this guide is for reference only. Parents or caregivers know their baby's needs best and should decide the best dressing plan accordingly.
How should I consider TOG when dressing my child?
The TOG rating is an important reference when choosing clothing for children. Our TOG ratings (rounded appropriately) are based on globally recognized test methods such as EN ISO 11092, ASTM 1291 (adjusted to parameters consistent with EN ISO 11092) and ISO 5085-1, used in conjunction with specific dressing guidelines (available online or on the packaging). These ratings reflect appropriate warmth when used in conjunction with the dressing guidelines.
Our TOG ratings and dressing guidelines are designed to help parents and caregivers choose appropriate clothing for their children at different room temperatures. We also provide guidance to help determine if a child is too hot or too cold, so parents or caregivers can make the best decision. The number of layers required may vary depending on each child's perception of heat and cold, health status, physiological needs, room temperature and outdoor conditions. Parents or caregivers should determine the appropriate dressing plan based on their circumstances. Please note that we do not provide medical advice.
Does the heavier the swaddle/sleeping bag, the higher the TOG?
Not necessarily. The TOG value of a swaddle or sleeping bag is not entirely determined by weight, but by the material it is made of. For example, a 100% down comforter is lighter than a synthetic-fill comforter, but it is warmer because down is more efficient at keeping warm and requires less fill to achieve a higher TOG rating.
How to choose a swaddle/sleeping bag based on the TOG rating?
Baby swaddles and sleeping bags are typically rated between 0.5 and 3.5 TOG, and according to the International Down and Feather Testing Laboratory (IDFL), should not exceed 4. Although there are no clear TOG recommendations from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the general rule is to choose a swaddle or sleeping bag with a higher TOG (no more than 4) in the winter and a lower TOG in the summer. Note that your baby's onesies or pajamas will also increase the warmth, and pairing high TOG products with thick pajamas may cause overheating. Parents are the best judges, feeling their baby's temperature by touching their cheeks, ears, neck and chest: warmth may indicate overheating, while cool may mean extra warmth is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleeping Your Baby
1. What temperature should your baby stay at at night?
There is no specific room temperature standard, but the following steps can ensure your baby is comfortable:
- Choose sleepwear based on the room temperature and season, and refer to our dressing guide.
- Make sure your baby's sleeping area is free of toys, pillows, or loose blankets.
- Babies regulate their body temperature through their heads and faces, so they should sleep on their backs with their faces uncovered.
- Never use hot water bottles or electric blankets.
2. How can you tell if your baby is too cold at night?
If you are worried that your baby is too cold, touch their back or abdomen to feel if they are warm. Signs of being too cold include shivering, cold hands and feet, or fussiness. Use a room thermometer and our dressing guide to choose sleepwear that is appropriate for the room temperature and season to ensure your baby is warm and comfortable.
3. How can you tell if your baby is too hot at night?
Monitoring body temperature is key. Signs of overheating include sweating, warm or flushed skin, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness, or rapid breathing. If you notice overheating, take the following steps:
- Provide age-appropriate fluids (such as breast milk or water).
- Change to sleepwear with a lower TOG rating to adjust to room temperature.
- Move your baby to a well-ventilated room.
- If you are still concerned about your baby's temperature, seek medical attention.
Choosing the right sleepwear for your baby is an important step in ensuring they sleep well. By paying attention to room temperature, choosing sleepwear with the right TOG rating, and being aware of your baby's reactions to heat and cold, you can create a safe, comfortable sleep environment for your baby. May you and your baby sleep well every night!