When it comes to dressing your baby for sleep, finding the right balance between cozy and safe is key. But with so many options — bodysuits, footies, swaddles, blankets — how do you know what’s too much or too little? This is where TOG ratings come in. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a TOG rating, and how do I use a TOG chart?”, this guide is here to help. We’ll explain what TOG means, why it matters, and how to use it to keep your baby sleeping comfortably and safely through every season.
What Is a TOG Rating?
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade — it’s a simple way to measure how well a fabric retains heat. The higher the TOG number, the warmer the fabric will keep your baby.TOG is not about how thick the material looks, but how much insulation it provides. This system helps parents dress their babies appropriately for sleep based on room temperature, not guesswork.
Why TOG Ratings Matter for Your Baby
Babies are especially sensitive to overheating, which has been linked to higher risks during sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep guidelines recommend using breathable layers and avoiding heavy blankets. Overheating is one of the risk factors associated with unsafe sleep, while being too cold can disrupt your baby’s rest. Using TOG ratings as your guide ensures that your baby stays comfortably warm without the risks that come from over-bundling or using loose blankets.
TOG Rating Chart: Choosing the Right Warmth by Room Temperature
Here’s a quick look at how to use the TOG chart when deciding how to dress your baby for sleep:
| Room Temperature (°F) | Recommended TOG | Example Sleepwear Layers |
| 75°F and above | 0.5 TOG | Short-sleeve bodysuit or diaper only |
| 69–74°F | 1.0 TOG | Long-sleeve bodysuit or footed pajamas |
| 61–68°F | 2.5 TOG | Pajamas + bodysuit or layered under sleepwear |
The TOG rating provides a guideline, but always feel your baby’s neck or back to make sure they aren’t too warm or too cool.
Is 2.5 TOG Too Warm for Summer?
Yes — a 2.5 TOG level is typically too warm for summer or warmer indoor temperatures. It’s designed for cooler seasons or air-conditioned rooms where the temperature drops below 68°F.For summer or warmer nights, a 0.5 TOG layer keeps your baby cool while still providing light coverage.
What Is a Good TOG Rating for Babies?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best TOG depends on your baby’s sleep environment. The key is matching the TOG level to your room temperature:
- Use 0.5 TOG for warm rooms.
- Choose 1.0 TOG for in-between temps.
- Pick 2.5 TOG for chilly spaces.
Explore our TOG rated baby sleep bags
How Is TOG Measured?
TOG is measured by testing how much heat escapes through a fabric. Specialized labs use controlled equipment to assess insulation performance. This rating helps ensure consistency so parents can confidently select the right sleepwear.
What Does TOG Stand For?
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade. It’s your go-to reference for choosing the right level of warmth for baby sleepwear — simple, clear, and backed by science.
Final Thoughts
Dressing your baby for safe, comfortable sleep doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the TOG chart as your guide, you can choose the right warmth level for any season and help your little one sleep soundly all night long.Remember, it’s always best to check your baby’s body temperature (by feeling their neck or back) rather than relying on the feel of their hands or feet. And when in doubt, lighter is safer than heavier.For more safe sleep tips and how to dress your baby through the seasons, explore the rest of our guides at SwaddleAn.