How to Find the Right Baby Blanket For The Season
If you’re a new parent or even a seasoned one, you’ll know just how important it is to keep your baby cosy, comfortable, and safe — especially when it comes to sleep. And let’s be honest, sleep is the holy grail for times of peace and quiet in any household with a little one!
One of the simplest (and most effective) ways to help your baby sleep soundly is by choosing the right baby blanket for the season. But with so many options out there — from muslin wraps to plush fleece and everything in between — it can be a bit of a head-scratcher. Don’t stress. Baby Gifts Australia put together this easy guide to help you figure out what kind of blanket works best, whether it's the middle of a sweltering Aussie summer or one of those chilly winter nights.
Why Seasonal Blankets Matter
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, which means they can quickly become too hot or too cold. A blanket that’s too warm in summer can lead to overheating, while one that’s too thin in winter might not offer enough warmth. Picking a seasonally-appropriate blanket helps keep your bub comfy and lowers the risk of sleep disruptions — and let’s face it, anything that helps babies sleep better is a total win.
Summer – Light and Breathable is Best
When the mercury rises, the key is breathability. Australian summers can get hot, especially in places like Queensland or WA, and the last thing you want is for your little one to be drenched in sweat during nap time.
What to Look For –
- Material – Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton muslin, bamboo, or organic cotton. These allow air to circulate and wick moisture away from the skin.
- Design – Look for open-weave or loosely woven blankets. Muslin wraps are perfect — they’re airy, soft, and can be used in multiple ways (hello, swaddle, pram shade, and burp cloth in one!).
- TOG Rating – If you’re using sleep sacks or wearable blankets, check the TOG rating — anything between 0.2 and 0.5 TOG is great for warm summer nights.
Hot Tip –
During the peak of summer, especially in air-conditioned rooms, some parents find layering a muslin swaddle over a singlet onesie just right. Always feel your baby’s neck or back to check if they’re too warm or cold.
Autumn & Spring – Layer Up Smartly
These in-between seasons can be a bit tricky — mornings are crisp, afternoons are warm, and nights can swing either way. The trick here is versatility.
What to Look For –
- Material – Go for midweight cotton blankets or light fleece. Knitted cotton is also a great pick — soft, breathable, and with just enough weight for cooler nights.
- Design – Consider using layers. You can easily add or remove a blanket depending on how the weather behaves.
- TOG Rating – Sleep sacks around 1.0 TOG are ideal for these transitional seasons.
Hot Tip –
If you're not sure whether your baby needs an extra layer, use this simple rule – babies generally need one more layer than what you're comfortable in. So if you're sleeping with a light doona, a midweight blanket plus a cotton sleepsuit should do the trick for bub.
Winter – Go Warm, But Not Too Warm
Depending on where you live in Australia, winter can either be mild or absolutely frosty. Whether you’re in chilly Tassie or a relatively mild coastal town, keeping your baby warm — without overheating — is crucial.
What to Look For –
- Material – Choose heavier fabrics like fleece, wool blends, or quilted cotton. Merino wool is a winner — it's breathable, natural, and temperature regulating.
- Design – Heavier blankets with a soft lining work well. For extra warmth, use a sleep sack or swaddle with a higher TOG rating.
- TOG Rating – Look for blankets or sleep sacks with 2.5 TOG or higher. These are designed for cooler nights (below 18°C).
Hot Tip –
Avoid using multiple loose blankets in the cot during winter. Instead, use a warm wearable blanket or sleep sack — it keeps baby snug without the risk of suffocation or entanglement.
What About Safety?
Regardless of the season, always follow safe sleep guidelines. Red Nose Australia recommends placing babies on their back to sleep, using a firm, flat mattress, and keeping the sleep space free from loose bedding and toys.
If your baby is under 12 months, avoid using quilts, doonas, or heavy blankets that could come loose and cover their face. Instead, stick with breathable materials, tuck blankets firmly at the sides of the cot, or opt for wearable blankets.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Check for Allergies – If your baby has sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic, natural fabrics. Organic cotton and bamboo are great options.
- Easy to Wash – Let’s be real — baby blankets are going to get messy. Choose ones that are machine-washable and quick to dry.
- Multipurpose – Many blankets double up as pram covers, change mats, or tummy time throws — a win for both function and value.
Choosing the right baby blanket for the season doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you know what materials and weights suit each time of year, it becomes second nature. Always factor in your baby’s comfort, safety, and the room temperature — not just the weather outside.
No matter if it’s a light muslin wrap for a summer snooze or a warm, snuggly fleece for a winter night, the perfect blanket is out there waiting to be wrapped around your little one. And when they sleep better — so do you.
Sleep tight!
