What is a TOG rating?

Let me explain TOG ratings and their importance for baby sleep safety and comfort.

TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) is a scientific measurement system that tells how well a fabric or garment insulates heat. The rating works on a scale where higher numbers indicate better heat retention – the higher the TOG rating, the warmer the garment will keep its wearer.

For parents, TOG ratings are particularly valuable regarding baby sleepwear, especially swaddles and sleep sacks. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults, making it crucial to dress them appropriately for sleep. The TOG rating takes the guesswork out of this important decision.

When looking at swaddles or sleep sacks, you’ll often see TOG ratings ranging from 0.2 (very lightweight, suitable for warm rooms) to 3.5 (heavily insulated, for cold environments). The ratings work in conjunction with room temperature to help you make informed decisions about your baby’s sleepwear.
Most reputable swaddle manufacturers include TOG ratings on their products and provide detailed temperature guides. The guides typically show what clothing your baby should wear under the swaddle based on the TOG rating and room temperature. If you can’t find this information easily, it’s worth contacting your swaddle’s manufacturer directly, as proper layering is essential for your baby’s comfort and safety during sleep.

Here at Swaddle School, you can find the TOG rating of the swaddles we’ve tested when they are available. You’ll also find the temperature and clothing recommendations on each swaddle page. Check out the NEUT app, which helps you determine what your baby should wear for sleep.