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It’s freezing outside, the heating goes up a notch and all you want to do is crawl under a thick duvet yourself. But how do you make sure your little one stays nice and warm at night, without overheating? Every season it’s a bit of a puzzle with layers. No worries! We’re happy to help you with a few practical tips, so you can both enjoy a good night’s sleep. Dreaming big since 1973 At Jollein, we’ve been working on the perfect sleeping bag since the 1970s. It all started with a simple idea: babies sleep more peacefully (and safely!) in a sleeping bag. Many years later, we’ve used that expertise to develop the perfect sleeping bags that do exactly what they’re meant to do: provide comfort. We know which fabrics feel soft on delicate baby skin and which thickness you need at what time. Whether you choose a sleeping bag or a traditionally made-up crib: we’ve got you. The TOG value: your new best friend You’ve probably seen the term before: TOG value. It may sound technical, but it’s simply a guide to how warm a sleeping bag or blanket is. In winter, we usually aim for a total of 2.5 to 3.0 TOG. How you build that up depends on the room temperature: Colder than 18°C? Choose a winter sleeping bag with sleeves, combined with pyjamas and a bodysuit, or use a sheet with a warm blanket. Around 20°C? A winter sleeping bag with just a bodysuit, or a sheet with a single blanket, is often enough. Our tip: Not sure? Feel your baby’s neck. Does it feel comfortable? Then you’re good. Does it feel clammy or sweaty? Time to remove a layer. Cold hands are common in winter and usually nothing to worry about. Sleeping bag or made-up crib? Every baby (and every parent) is different. Some swear by a sleeping bag, while others prefer a snugly made-up crib with a sheet and blanket. The sleeping bag | Ideal for active babies who ‘walk’ through the crib in their sleep. Our winter sleeping bags often have detachable sleeves – super handy when temperatures suddenly rise. Sheets and blankets | A sheet gives a cosy, secure feeling, especially when the crib is tucked in tightly. In winter, add a beautiful knitted blanket on top for extra warmth. Mix, match and unzip Let’s be honest: looks matter too. Whether you go for a complete look or love to mix things up, our prints are made to combine. From dreamy Flower Fairies and cute Animal Friends to calm Leafy Dreams or cheerful Tiny Park. A subtle printed sheet peeking out from under a plain blanket? There’s always something that fits perfectly in your nursery. Safety above all The most important thing is that your little one sleeps safely. Using a sheet and blanket? Always make the bed ‘short’: your baby’s feet near the foot of the crib, so they can’t slip under the covers. Using a sleeping bag? Make sure it’s the right size so the neckline fits snugly. Quick check: Choose your style: the ease of a sleeping bag or the snug feel of a blanket? The right size: the neckline shouldn’t be too wide. Build layers: combine a thin bodysuit with a sleeping bag, rather than one very thick item. Trust your instinct: you know your baby best. If they sleep well, you’re doing great. Have questions about which combination works best in your nursery? We’re happy to help. For all the first nights – and many more to come: sleep well! Love,Jollein

What about your baby's naps during the day? Daytime and nighttime sleep are closely connected. A restless night is often the result of a day with little quality sleep. When your baby is around 3 to 4 months old, it can be very helpful to work towards a routine that includes three naps per day: the morning nap, the afternoon nap, and the third nap. The afternoon nap is the most important nap of the day, but the other naps are important too, as they each serve their own purpose. The Morning Nap The morning nap, especially when your baby is around 6 to 7 months old, is best seen as a power nap to get through the morning and lunchtime with enough energy. Especially if your baby has had a good night’s sleep, they don't need much sleep in the morning. A longer morning nap can even negatively affect the afternoon nap. Babies are often still a bit tired from the night at the time of the morning nap (just like we tend to yawn in the morning). This is why it is usually the first nap that fits into the routine. This is great because it gives you time to take a shower in the morning or enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea. For young babies, this nap usually lasts around 90 minutes, but by the time your baby is 6 months old, they often only need 45 minutes (assuming they’ve had a good night’s sleep). Overall, I am a big advocate for a short morning nap because it allows your baby to build up a "sleep debt" which can be caught up during the afternoon nap – the most important nap of the day. But a short morning nap has other benefits as well: If your baby is older than six months, a longer morning nap may cause them to wake up early. This longer nap is seen as an extension of the night, preventing your baby from sleeping longer during the night. Offering a short morning nap ensures that the afternoon nap falls within the biological sleep window (when melatonin levels are high and cortisol levels are low). Around 15 to 18 months, your baby will be ready to switch to just one nap a day: the afternoon nap. It is much easier to let go of this short nap than to try and gradually move it to the afternoon, which could lead to a much too long period of wakefulness at the end of the day. If necessary, you can easily let this nap happen “on the go” without disrupting your rhythm. The Afternoon Nap The afternoon nap is the most important nap of the day – both for your baby and for you ;-). On average, children need this nap until they are around 2.5 to 3 years old. Therefore, it is important to start early in creating a good foundation for this nap. Offering the afternoon nap during the biological sleep window (depending on your baby’s age, this nap typically starts between 12:00 and 1:00 PM) ensures that it is a high-quality nap that helps promote a good night's sleep. Did you know that a good afternoon nap contributes to the development of both short- and long-term memory, the recovery of the immune system, the growth and appetite of your baby, and the regulation of emotions? Since this is the most important nap of the day, I always recommend (if possible) having it take place in bed. For the morning nap and the third nap, you can be more flexible. Looking for a cozy sleeping bag for your little one? Look no further and shop them here! The Third Nap The third nap is the nap that most babies need until they are between 6 and 8 months old. This nap helps your baby start the evening routine (dinner and bedtime) well-rested and prevents them from starting the night overtired. Difficulty falling asleep, restless evenings and nights, and waking up early are typical signs of overtiredness due to insufficient sleep during the day. The third nap ensures your baby begins the night well-rested (provided the other naps are also well-established). However, be careful: offering this third nap for too long can cause the mentioned problems. Keep this nap short, up to 20 minutes, between 6 and 8 months.

After that magical first year, your baby is turning into a curious little explorer. Between 12 and 24 months, toddlers become more mobile, independent, and eager to discover the world around them. They’re walking, talking, stacking, building, and imitating everything they see. The right toys make these new adventures even more exciting — and help your child develop essential skills in a fun, safe way. At Jollein, you’ll find thoughtful toys and gifts that support your toddler’s growth while fitting beautifully into your home. Soft textures, natural tones, and clever designs make every item both stylish and practical. Whether you’re looking for a birthday gift, a “just because” surprise, or a new favorite playtime essential — we’ve got you covered. Stacking Toys Around this age, toddlers love to build (and knock down!) towers.  Stacking toys are perfect for little hands still learning about balance and coordination. They help develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving — all while keeping playtime safe. Time for your little one to stack and play! This wooden stacking tower features three adorable jungle animals — a caramel Giraffe, ash green Crocodile, and biscuit-colored Cheetah. The colorful blocks help your child learn shapes and colors while developing fine motor skills. Made from 100% FSC-certified wood, it’s safe, durable, and fun to look at! Cuddly Dolls & Soft Toys Imaginative play starts here. Around 18 months, toddlers begin to form emotional connections with their favorite stuffed friends. A soft doll or cuddly toy can quickly become a loyal companion for naps, car rides, and adventures. Jollein’s plush toys — like the Knight Duke, Lady Lynn, or the Elephant — are made from ultra-soft materials and designed to comfort and inspire. They’re not just toys; they’re friends your little one will cherish for years. Wooden Pull-Along Toys Walking becomes a true joy when there’s a little friend to pull along! Race cars encourage movement, balance, and coordination — ideal for toddlers who are just finding their rhythm. The Jollein Wooden Animals on wheels come in charming shapes like elephants or bears, crafted from smooth, natural wood. Their minimalist design and neutral tones make them both a beautiful and functional gift. Or get ready for endless fun with this amazing wooden race track, perfect for your little adventurer! Watch the four cheerful cars zoom down the track again and again — pure excitement from start to finish. Part of our On the Go theme, this toy keeps your mini (and friends) entertained for hours. A beautiful and timeless gift for any occasion — even as a newborn present! Mealtime Essentials as Gifts Between one and two, mealtimes become little adventures too. Giving your toddler their own silicone tableware set — with a bowl, spoon, and cup — helps foster independence. The Jollein Silicone Dinner Set is safe, flexible, and oh-so-practical. With soft pastel colors and easy-to-clean material, it’s a stylish and thoughtful gift that parents will love just as much as little ones. Our Favorites for 1–2 Year Olds Stuffed Animal – Elephant: a soft buddy for every adventure. Wooden shape sorter - Jungle Jambo: Let your little one bring all the jungle animals together in this fun wooden house and enjoy hours of fun Wooden race track, perfect for your little adventurer! Watch the four cheerful cars zoom down the track again and again. Kids dinner set 4 pieces: practical, safe, and beautiful for everyday use. Your toddler’s world grows bigger every day — and with Jollein toys, each discovery feels calm, cozy, and full of wonder.From their very first steps to their first words, Jollein helps make every moment of growth feel soft, stylish, and full of love. Explore the full Jollein toy collection and find the perfect gift for your little explorer.

A baby’s first year is a time full of growth and wonder. Every day, your little one learns something new: reaching, rolling, listening, looking, and feeling. The right toys can make this journey of discovery safe, fun, and stimulating. At Jollein, you’ll find toys perfectly suited to this special stage. The collection combines soft materials, calming colors, and clever designs that support your baby’s development. Playtime becomes not only enjoyable but also a meaningful moment of bonding and exploration. Discover the cutest gifts for your little one or the perfect present for a newborn! Safety and Materials Jollein toys are designed with little hands in mind. Every item is made from safe, high-quality materials that feel pleasant to touch. The soft colors and natural fabrics fit perfectly into any nursery and bring a sense of calm to daily play and learning moments. What makes these toys even more special is that they grow with your baby. From the first weeks when your little one mostly observes and listens, to the stage of grabbing, rolling, and exploring – Jollein offers something appropriate for every phase. Pacifier cloths Pacifier cloths are often a baby’s very first favorite companions. They provide comfort, familiarity, and security and can be taken everywhere: in the crib, on the couch, or on walks in the stroller. Jollein comfort blankets are made from soft materials like teddy fabric and velour, perfect for snuggling and holding close. Many designs also include small tags, buttons, or rattles that stimulate the senses and help develop fine motor skills. How cute is the Little Star Pacifier cloth? Rattles Around three months, babies discover that they can grasp and move objects. A rattle is the perfect toy at this stage: lightweight, easy to hold, and with a gentle sound that sparks curiosity. Recently, wrist and foot rattles have also become available. These little rattles attach to your baby’s arms or legs, so every movement creates a soft sound. This makes everyday motions even more fun and engaging while your baby spends hours exploring touch and sound. They help develop fine motor skills, hearing, and hand-eye coordination in a playful way, keeping your little one active and entertained. Baby Gyms and Activity Cubes A baby gym is an essential for the first months. Your baby lies underneath, looks up, and reaches for the soft hanging toys. This naturally stimulates motor skills and coordination. Jollein offers various baby gym toys that can be attached to the gym – from cute animals to soft rattles. Which one is your favorite? Later in the first year, an activity cube is a wonderful next step: a block full of textures, shapes, and sounds that keeps your baby engaged and learning. The Animal Friends Activity Cube is a perfect example – educational, safe, and fun for the second half of the first year. Baby Mobiles A baby mobile brings calm and fascination to the nursery. The moving figures capture attention and stimulate vision, while the gentle rotation has a soothing effect. Hang it above the crib or playpen for a quiet moment in between activities. Jollein baby mobiles are real eye-catchers in the nursery and look adorable under a mosquito net. Teething Rings Around four to six months, the first teeth often start to appear. This can be uncomfortable for your baby, but a teething ring can help relieve the discomfort. Jollein teething rings are made from safe materials such as soft silicone or natural rubber, allowing your little one to chew and explore safely. They support both teething and the development of hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Our Favorites for Babies from 0 to 12 Months Baby Gym – Natural Wood: stimulates movement and curiosity from the very first weeks. Choose from the cutest baby gym toys! Baby Mobile – Teddy Bear: soft and calming, perfect above the crib. Wrist Rattle – Tiny Park: your little one’s new favorite friend always within reach! Comfort Blanket – Elephant Tales: provides comfort and familiarity anywhere you go. Activity Cube – Animal Friends: engaging and educational, perfect for the second half of the first year. The first year flies by, but the memories of all those little discoveries will last forever. With Jollein toys, you give your baby the chance to grow, learn, and enjoy in a safe, calm, and loving environment. Discover the complete range and be inspired by the most delightful toys for the very youngest.

Designing your baby’s nursery is pure joy!It’s the heart of your home for your little one — the place where they will soon sleep peacefully, play endlessly, and dream big. With our new collection, we’ll take you on a magical journey through six enchanting dream worlds, each with its own charm and story. Ready to find the perfect atmosphere together? Let’s dive in! 1. Tiny ParkImagine a fresh morning walk in the park, with birds singing, ducks paddling, and winding paths waiting to be explored. Tiny Park brings that delightful outdoor feeling straight into your nursery. In soft, natural shades like Olive Green and Milky Coffee, it’s like wrapping your baby in a warm hug from nature. 2. Elephant TalesStep into a tender adventure with a gentle, loving elephant who keeps its little one safe under its watchful eyes. Filled with soft tones and playful illustrations, Elephant Tales is perfect for tiny explorers who love to feel safe, snug, and ready for their next big journey. 3. Flower FairiesGet swept away by joyful fairies dancing among the flowers! Flower Fairies brings a romantic, dreamy atmosphere to the nursery with soft, sweet colours and a sprinkle of magic, creating a space that radiates warmth and wonder. 4. Animal FriendsWelcome to a playful world where every day brings new animal friends! With adorable creatures, cheerful prints, and hints of terra and brown, Animal Friends turns any nursery into a joyful space full of fun, laughter, and imagination. 5. Leafy DreamsFor lovers of pure tranquillity and natural beauty, Leafy Dreams is the answer. With its delicate floral designs and warm tones, this dreamy theme creates a calm, loving atmosphere — perfect for a serene and stylish nursery. 6. Miffy & FriendsFor Miffy fans, this is the ultimate dream world! Soft fabrics and familiar friends like Boris and Snuffy make the nursery cosy, warm, and irresistibly charming. Playful, stylish, and always ready for a cuddle. Which dream world will be your little one’s favourite? Or mix and match them all to create a unique, joy-filled nursery bursting with love and adventure. Let your imagination run wild and design a magical space your baby will adore.

At Jollein, we love baby essentials that are not only super cute but also incredibly practical—and our pacifier cloths are the perfect example! These soft little must-haves help your baby find their pacifier more easily, offer comfort and a sense of security, and also add a stylish touch to your baby gear. Made from high-quality materials and finished with handy loops to attach a pacifier, they’re an absolute must-have for every parent. Discover our favorites—loved by both babies and their parents! Why Choose a Jollein Pacifier Cloth? Soft & Safe: Made from high-quality materials like jersey, terry cloth, cotton, and fleece—perfectly gentle for sensitive baby skin Super Practical: Thanks to the convenient loop, you can easily attach a pacifier—so your little one won’t lose it anymore! Stylish: Available in beautiful colors and adorable shapes to match any nursery or baby layette. A Lovely Gift Idea: Perfect as a baby shower gift or maternity present! Terry Pacifier Cloth Looking for something simple yet super sweet? The Terry Leaf pacifier cloth is a perfect pick! Made from soft terry cloth and shaped like a little leaf, it brings both comfort and style. Available in gorgeous shades like Biscuit, Wild Rose, and Sea Green, this cloth is a charming addition to your baby essentials. Teddy Bear Pacifier Cloth The Teddy Bear pacifier cloth is a true classic! Made from ultra-soft teddy fabric, it gives your baby the ultimate feeling of comfort and security. Available in the loveliest tones like Biscuit, Naturel, Wild Rose, and Olive Green, it fits beautifully in any nursery—and keeps the pacifier always within reach. Moon Pacifier Cloth What could be more soothing than cuddling with a little moon? The Moon pacifier cloth in Nougat is an absolute dreamy must-have. Its soft moon shape brings peace and comfort during those quiet moments, and the neutral color makes it a beautiful match in any nursery. Dreamy Mouse Pacifier Cloth The Dreamy Mouse pacifier cloth is a true eye-catcher! With a sweet mouse print on top and a soft fleece bottom, it’s the perfect snuggle buddy for your little one. Whether it’s naptime or playtime, this cloth brings comfort and cosiness. Star Pacifier Cloth One of our newest additions! The Star pacifier cloth is incredibly soft and shaped like a little star. Made from velvety fabric, it’s both comforting and cuddly. The embroidered face adds an extra cute detail! Available in Sea Green, Biscuit, and Wild Rose—which color is your favorite? Deep Sea Pacifier Cloths Say hello to your baby’s new underwater friends! The Deep Sea pacifier cloths feature adorable sea creatures like a seal, whale, and seahorse. Made from soft boucle fabric, they feel wonderfully plush and cozy. The perfect cuddly companion for playtime or quiet moments. A guaranteed smile for your little one! Discover Your FavoriteCurious to see the rest of our adorable pacifier cloths?Take a look at the full collection and find the one your little one will fall in love with! Shop Pacifier Cloths

The first years of a child’s life bring tremendous growth in every area — from a helpless newborn to an inquisitive toddler exploring the world. This period lays the foundation for the future. In this blog, educational psychologist and author Loes Waanders walks you through four essential developmental areas for children aged 0 to 4: physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and speech and language development. Observe Your Own Child Before diving in, remember: every child develops at their own pace. The internet is full of well-meaning advice, which can sometimes be helpful, but also overwhelming. If your child isn’t walking “on time,” it might make you feel anxious. Know that your child follows their own unique path. What your child needs most is a calm, confident parent — not one pushing them to meet arbitrary milestones. Let this blog be an inspiration, not a checklist. 1. Physical Development At birth, a baby is completely dependent on you. In the early months, they begin discovering their body — lifting their head, rolling over, sitting, crawling, and walking by the end of the first year. Fine motor skills begin to develop too, like transferring toys from one hand to the other. Toddlers love to paint or play with cars, and by age 3, many can unbutton clothing or draw with a pencil. 2. Cognitive Development This includes how your child processes and remembers information. A newborn mostly reacts instinctively — crying when hungry or uncomfortable. Over time, they learn through repetition: when mom says, “Your bottle is coming,” they associate her voice with feeding. Around 6 to 8 months, they begin to understand how their behavior impacts others. A toddler learns through experimentation — like noticing that a toy car goes faster on a smooth floor. Children also imitate others. Around 18 months, they begin solving small problems independently. Between 2 and 4 years, fantasy play (like playing house) becomes common, blending reality and imagination. This can lead to nightmares or fears. Avoid using fear-based discipline (“The monster will get you”), and instead, support your child by acknowledging their feelings and imagination. 3. Social and Emotional Development Early on, children learn how to connect with others and manage feelings. Babies experience basic emotions — happy, sad, angry, scared — but can’t express them yet. That’s why caregivers play a vital role in soothing and naming emotions, even from day one. Babies may not understand your words, but they feel your tone and presence. Toddlers are naturally self-focused. Before age 3, they often play next to others, not with them. By 3 to 4, they begin to wait their turn and understand others’ emotions — “Mommy is crying, so she’s sad.” This is the beginning of emotional understanding, which differs from empathy (putting oneself in another’s shoes), which continues to develop until age 9 or 10. Narrating social situations helps children make sense of them — “Mats wanted the doll too, so he grabbed it.” 4. Speech and Language Development Even before they talk, babies communicate — through crying or gestures. Parents naturally respond with soothing and speech. Though babies may not understand your words at first, they feel your reassurance. Around 7-8 months, babbling begins, and by 12 to 18 months, the first real words appear. Language comprehension usually develops faster than speech. A toddler may understand “Give me the ball” even before they can speak. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of what you say around your child — they pick up tone and meaning quickly. Between 18 months and 2 years, toddlers often say their name and use two-word phrases. Between 2 and 3 years, these grow into longer sentences. By 3 to 4, children ask lots of “why” questions and begin answering simple ones. Final Thoughts This is just a snapshot of the many areas in which your child grows. Most importantly, keep tuning into your child’s unique pace. Some kids make big leaps in speech while others focus on motor skills — and that’s perfectly okay. Each child distributes their energy differently across these areas. Loes Waanders is a child psychologist helping parents find more peace and joy in parenting, work-life balance, and self-care. She runs the largest online academy for parenting, kids & careers, and is the founder of the Parent First method. She’s also a speaker and author of the book De ontspannen ouder (The Relaxed Parent). www.loeswaanders.com

How to Style and Set Up Your Baby's Crib Setting up your baby's crib is one of the most exciting tasks when preparing the nursery. With the right essentials, you can create a safe and cozy sleep space for your little one. From soft sleeping bags to practical muslin cloths—Jollein has everything you need. Read on to find out how to make your baby’s bed both beautiful and safe! How to Make the Crib Safe and Comfortable A good night’s sleep starts with a well-made crib. Follow these simple steps to ensure your baby sleeps safely and soundly: 1. Use a Properly Fitting Mattress Make sure the mattress is firm and fits snugly inside the crib, with no gaps around the edges. This helps prevent your baby from getting stuck. 2. Add a Fitted Sheet Choose a breathable and soft fitted sheet that wraps tightly around the mattress. Jollein offers a wide range of fitted sheets that perfectly match your nursery style—and your baby’s sleeping bags too! 3. Choose a Sleeping Bag To reduce the risk of suffocation, it's safer to let your baby sleep in a sleeping bag instead of using loose blankets. Pick the right TOG rating depending on the season: Summer sleeping bag (TOG 0.5) for warm nights 4-season sleeping bag (TOG 1.0 – 3.5) for year-round use Sleeping bag with detachable sleeves (TOG 2.5 – 3.5) for the colder months 4. Optional: Add a Light Blanket and Sheet If you prefer to use a blanket and sheet, make sure they’re tucked in tightly under the mattress. Jollein’s soft blankets with a TOG value of 2 are perfect for cooler nights, offering just the right amount of warmth. 5. Avoid Overheating Always keep an eye on the temperature in the nursery. Use breathable materials and aim for a room temperature between 16–20°C (60–68°F). 6. Keep the Crib Clear Remove all loose items like toys, pillows, or crib bumpers. A clutter-free crib is the safest choice. Mix and Match Your Favorite Themes Of course, safety is key—but you also want your baby’s crib to look beautiful. Jollein’s sleep essentials combine function with style. Our dreamy prints, soft colors, and gentle textures let you create a look that’s both calming and trendy. Combine pastel tones and soft materials for a crib that’s just as cute as it is comfortable. Muslin Cloths for Extra Convenience Muslin cloths are a must-have in every nursery. Use them as an extra protective layer on the mattress or during those little spills and accidents. Soft, absorbent, and quick to wash—Jollein’s muslin cloths are practical lifesavers for every parent. With these tips, you’ll create a sleeping space that’s safe, cozy, and totally ready to welcome your baby. Discover the full collection and get inspired to style your dream nursery! Shop Crib Essentials

Is your baby too hot or too cold? That can sometimes be hard to tell. It’s true that newborns aren’t yet great at regulating their own body temperature. That’s why it’s good to know: being a little too cold is actually better than being too warm! Luckily, there are some helpful guidelines for how to tuck your little one in, so they’re not too hot or too chilly. In this blog, we’ll tell you all about it.Common sense goes a long wayYou know how uncomfortable it feels to be too warm in bed — you start to sweat, feel stuffy, and end up kicking off the covers. But your baby can’t do that yet. That’s why it’s important to check on your little one now and then. Is their head too warm? Are their feet or neck too cold? Is your baby clammy or sweaty? Especially when they’re under the weather, they need to be able to release excess heat. You probably have a pretty good sense of the temperature in the room. And remember: it’s better to be slightly underdressed than overdressed!Keep it coolResearch shows that babies can struggle to breathe properly in an overly warm and crowded crib. A baby could roll onto their stomach and end up with their face pressed against a pillow or blanket, limiting access to fresh air. If your baby is wrapped up too warmly, their body temperature can rise to an unsafe level — especially if the bedroom is also being heated. 18 degrees Celsius is warm enough!Paying attention to TOG Trusting your instincts and doing regular checks is the best way to help your baby sleep safely. But there’s also a technical aid: the TOG value. This is a rating system for how well bedding and sleepwear insulate. The colder the room, the higher the TOG value can be. Conversely, the warmer the room, the lower the TOG value should be. TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade, and the number tells you how much warmth is retained by items like sleeping bags, blankets, swaddles, and clothing. TOG ratings range from 0 to 4 and are meant to be used indoors at room temperature. They are not suitable for outdoor use.A guideline for temperature controlHere’s a handy overview of TOG values and the corresponding room temperatures. Important: Don’t add TOG values together. That’s because of the insulating air layer that forms between two separate layers — this layer adds extra warmth on its own. So trust your gut and use common sense when dressing your baby for sleep.

If you’ve recently had a baby, you’ve probably searched the internet for ways to help your little one sleep better. There’s so much information out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why Patricia, certified sleep coach at Bureau van Slaap, is here to clarify things. She shares 5 common baby sleep myths and what parents should actually focus on. 1. Your baby needs to sleep according to a strict schedule Online and in parenting books, you’ll find plenty of daily sleep schedules: a short morning nap, a long midday nap, possibly a late afternoon nap, and bedtime at 7 PM. While that sounds ideal (because it gives you predictability), most babies don’t follow such neat patterns. Some days the morning nap is short, other days it’s the longest. Some babies only take short naps all day. That’s why at Bureau van Slaap, we work with wake windows instead of fixed schedules. A wake window is the amount of time a baby can stay awake between naps. These windows vary by age and adjust as your baby grows. Putting your baby down at the end of their wake window makes it easier for them to fall asleep and rest longer. 👉 Want to learn more about wake windows? Download our free Wake Window Guide (Dutch only) full of tips and real-life examples. . 2. Your baby should nap in the light during the day You’ve probably heard that your baby should nap in daylight during the day and only sleep in the dark at night — to help them learn the difference between day and night. This advice only applies to the first 6 to 8 weeks, while your baby is still developing a circadian rhythm. After that, it’s perfectly fine (and often helpful!) to let your baby nap in a dark room. Light signals the brain that it’s daytime and time to wake up. So for longer, more restful naps, darken the room from about 8 weeks onwards. 3. Babies shouldn’t sleep too much during the day People often say: “Your baby wakes up at night? Let them nap less during the day!” Unfortunately, the opposite is true. A baby who doesn’t get enough daytime sleep can quickly become overtired — and overtired babies actually sleep worse at night. Good daytime sleep supports better nighttime sleep. And don’t worry, most babies won’t sleep too much. Instead of counting hours, observe your baby: are they waking up happy, growing well, and hitting milestones? Then they’re likely getting the sleep they need. 💡 Pro tip: Try not to let a single nap last longer than 2.5–3 hours — save the long stretches for nighttime. 4. A later bedtime means your baby will wake up later Many parents with early risers (babies waking before 6 AM) are told to try a later bedtime. But keeping your baby awake too long in the evening leads to overtiredness, which actually increases the chance of early wake-ups. Sometimes, a later bedtime can help, but only if your baby has an extra late nap to support staying up longer. Otherwise, a later bedtime without added rest can backfire. And remember: early waking can have many causes — like hunger or a room that’s too bright. At Bureau van Slaap, we’re happy to help you figure it out. 5. Babies sleep better in their own room In the early months, most babies sleep in their parents’ room. It makes night feeds easier and supports bonding. Later on, some claim babies sleep better in their own room. But honestly? It depends on your child. If co-sleeping works for you and everyone’s sleeping well, there’s no need to change it. Around 6 months, many parents notice they start waking each other more easily. If that’s happening, it might be time to transition to separate rooms. But if you’re all sleeping well together — no need to rush it Need help with your baby's sleep? Send us an email — we’re always happy to think along with you! Patricia and her team at Bureau van Slaap support families with gentle, loving sleep coaching. That means no cry-it-out methods or rigid routines. Want more sleep tips?Follow Bureau van Slaap on Instagram or visit their website. You can also request their free sleep tips guide for more peace and rest in your home.

We’ve noticed that many expecting parents feel uncertain and confused about which blanket is best for their baby. And that’s completely understandable — there are so many options out there! So, what blanket do you actually need for your little one? And how do you, as a soon-to-be parent, make the best choice? When you're shopping for your baby essentials, you’ll eventually start thinking about the blanket your little one will sleep under. It should be warm and, of course, match the style of the nursery. Blankets come in a variety of materials, sizes, and colors — and you can also take the blanket’s TOG rating into consideration. → View all cozy baby blankets here What Is TOG? The TOG value is a helpful technical guide to ensure your baby sleeps safely. It’s a rating system that indicates the insulating properties of sleep textiles. The lower the room temperature, the higher the TOG value can be. TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade and tells you how well body heat is retained in items like sleeping bags and blankets.→ Read everything about TOG ratings in our blog Consider the Room Temperature When buying a blanket for your baby, it’s important to consider the season in which your baby is due. If you're expecting a baby in autumn or winter, go for a blanket with a teddy or fleece lining. It’s soft and warm. But if you're expecting a summer baby, that same lining might be too warm — in that case, a lightweight, unlined blanket is a better choice. It’s always good to follow your own instincts when choosing a blanket. Some babies get cold easily, while others get warm quickly. Also, the weight of a blanket doesn’t determine how warm it is. Synthetic blankets are much lighter than cotton ones, but they’re not necessarily less warm. Cotton, Wool, or Synthetic? Research by VeiligheidNL in collaboration with TNO-textile shows that the type of material your baby sleeps under doesn't matter as much as making sure the bed is made up tightly and safely. Over the years, synthetic materials have improved significantly — they’re no longer sweaty or non-breathable. In fact, a cotton blanket with a synthetic lining can be warmer for cold days than a single cotton layer. Cotton absorbs moisture, which can leave a damp spot — so if your baby sweats a lot, this may not be ideal. Synthetic fabrics don’t absorb moisture but wick it away. So ultimately, the choice between cotton, synthetic, or a blend comes down to personal preference. Your Perfect Blanket To find the perfect blanket, there are a few things to keep in mind. When you're still pregnant, you don’t know your baby yet — so it’s hard to say whether they’ll run hot or cold. But one thing you do know is that summer room temperatures are much higher than in winter. That’s something you can base your decision on. So, choosing the perfect blanket means keeping the season your baby is due in mind. Option 1: Due in autumn or winter (October–March) Choose a (knitted) blanket with a teddy or fleece lining. These typically have a TOG rating of 2.0, making them suitable for room temperatures between 20–22°C (68–72°F). You can pair this blanket with a diaper and a bodysuit/sheet. If the room is even cooler, you might add both a bodysuit and a sheet. Always follow your instincts and observe your baby — each one is different, so adapt accordingly. Option 2: Due in spring or summer (April–September) In spring and summer, room temperatures are higher, so opt for a lighter blanket. Choose a (knitted) blanket without lining. These have a TOG rating between 0.9 and 1.3 — ideal for room temperatures around 23–24°C (73–75°F). Pair with a bodysuit and sheet. You can also choose a muslin (hydrophilic) blanket, which has a TOG rating of 1.3. Made from soft cotton, it absorbs moisture well. Again, follow your instincts and observe your baby. What Size Blanket Do I Need? Aside from materials, patterns, and colors, baby blankets also come in different sizes. Generally, there are two standard blanket sizes: 75×100 cm – for a bassinet or Moses basket 100×150 cm – for a crib or cot If your baby’s bed has different dimensions, be sure to double-check sizing when purchasing a blanket. So when shopping for the right blanket, it’s important to consider your baby, the room temperature, and — most importantly — trust your instincts and use common sense