Swaddling is perfect for a newborn. It is snug and comforting, reminding baby of the feeling of being in the womb.
As baby gets bigger and begins to move and roll, it is safer to move to a Grobag/infant sleeping bag.
But when is it time to move to a toddler pillow and duvet set? Is there a certain age, or should they be in their own bed?
Safety First
It is recommended that the move to toddler pillow and duvet set happens after the 12 month mark. From my own children’s’ experience, it occurs at around 16-20 months of age. If baby is younger than 12 months, there is a risk of suffocation and a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Make sure you have bought the correct size for the cot. A single duvet is much larger and will end up with extra unnecessary material in the cot bed. Ensure both items are designed specially for toddlers.
Signs & Signals
Baby begins to show aversion to the sleeping bag. At this age, baby becomes more independent and fight against parents for what they like and dislike.
Baby starts breaking out of sleeping bag. When baby learns a new skill, such as using a zip, they will practice this as much as they can! That can translate to breaking free!
Baby signals comfort from sofa pillows/parents pillows. You may see baby cuddling and laying their head on a throw pillow, or snuggling on the pillow whenever they get into mummy and daddy bed.
Sleeping on top of their comforter. If you see your baby curled up on there teddy or blanket, they are signalling that they need more comfort.
How to Transition
- Keep in baby in Sleeping Bag. Babies tend not to understand the concept of pulling the duvet over them when they are cold during the night. And the last thing you need is to be woken during the night by a cold baby. Baby will stay warm and the duvet tog value are normally quite light (4 tog) so baby shouldn’t overheat. If you are worried, remove the baby’s vest before putting on pyjamas.
- Practice makes perfect! Teach your child to pull covers up. This can be done through role-play during the daytime. Show baby how you tuck teddy in, and ask them to do it.
- Link the language. Get baby familiar with the words ‘Pillow’, ‘Duvet’, ‘Covers’, ‘Warm’ etc The more language they have, the more understanding they have.
- Figure out where to position the pillow. By observing your baby sleep, they tend to naturally prefer one side of the cot to curl up on. Take their lead!
Created with
