Are Weighted Sleep Sacks Safe for Babies? Here's What You Need to Know

Are Weighted Sleep Sacks Safe for Babies? A Certified Sleep Consultant Weighs In

Almost every time I do a Q&A on Instagram (which is a lot — you should totally follow me if you’re not already), I get asked: “Are weighted sleep sacks safe for babies?”

Let’s talk about it.

If you've been scrolling late-night social media with a baby who just. won’t. sleep... then chances are you've seen the ads. You know the ones — exhausted parents find a magical weighted sleep sack and suddenly, their baby is snoozing 12 hours straight. Sounds dreamy, right?

But here’s the honest truth — in my professional opinion as a certified sleep consultant — they’re too good to be true. And more importantly, they’re not safe.

Why I Don’t Recommend Weighted Sleep Sacks for Babies

A few years ago, a brand sent me one of their weighted sleep sacks to try out with my then 2-year-old. As soon as I picked it up, I knew something felt off.

It was really heavy. Way heavier than I expected — and definitely not something I felt good about using during sleep time.

Now don’t get me wrong — weighted blankets can be fantastic for older children and adults, especially for those who are neurodivergent or struggle with anxiety. I even use one myself from time to time! But babies? That’s a different story.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

“Weighted swaddles, weighted clothing, or objects on or near the baby are not safe and not recommended.”

You can read the full AAP statement here.

And beyond the safety risks, these products are often twice or even three times more expensive than perfectly safe sleep sacks with no red flags attached. So honestly — save your money!

What I DO Recommend Instead

Sleep sacks, in general, are amazing. They’re cozy, safe, and offer a great consistent sleep cue well into toddlerhood. In fact, both of my girls have used them, and my youngest still does!

Sleep sacks also help prevent crib climbing, which is a huge bonus when your toddler discovers their inner ninja.

You don’t have to spend a fortune either. Whether you love Kyte Baby, Burt’s Bees, Amazon Basics, or Woolino, there’s something out there that works for every family and budget.

👉 Need recs? Check out my Amazon storefront for sleep sack recommendations I love and trust (not sponsored — just real talk).

Confused About How to Dress Baby for Sleep?

If you’re overwhelmed by what TOG rating you need, or wondering if your baby is too hot or too cold, I’ve got another helpful resource for you. 💡
Read my full blog on how to dress your baby for sleep in all climates.

Need Help Getting Baby to Sleep Through the Night?

If you’re desperate for more than 45-minute stretches of sleep, you are so not alone — and I’ve got your back. Whether your little one is:

• Waking every hour

• Using a pacifier or you’re trying to wean off it

• Breastfed, formula-fed, or combo feeding

• Napping 4x a day or refusing naps entirely

There’s a way through, and it starts with a plan.

🎉 Check out the Cozy Baby Sleep Course — it’s a gradual, step-by-step program that helps you teach your baby or toddler how to sleep independently, while still feeling supported.

👉 Learn more about the course here!

And if your baby is under 3 months old? I’ve got a Newborn Sleep Course just for you too.

You’ve got this — and I’m here to help every step of the way. 
Sleep is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone xx

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). AAP Updates Safe Sleep Recommendations: Back is Best. Retrieved from https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2022/american-academy-of-pediatrics-updates-safe-sleep-recommendations-back-is-best/