Our guide to second-hand baby sleep bags
by Folk & Thread
At Folk & Thread, we design our baby sleep bags to be sustainable, long-lasting, and second-hand ready. We build in durability using premium materials like YKK zips, secure poppers, and certified organic fabrics that hold up to multiple washes—baby after baby.
A common question we get is: Are second-hand baby sleep bags safe? As a team of experts who’ve designed a lot of bags, we’re pretty picky about quality. Sadly, not all brands meet the same high standards we do. But we love second-hand! If you’ve been given a baby sleep bag or bought one second-hand, you probably won’t have the original packaging or instructions. So, here’s a simple checklist to make sure it’s safe to use.
1. Check the label
Look for either BS 8510:2009 or the later European standard BS EN 14781:2018. These safety standards ensure the bag meets strict size and TOG requirements—two key safety factors. But even if it has the right label, it’s still important to check the bag yourself.
2. Check the condition
- No stains, tears, or wear on the fabric, zippers, or poppers.
- Run the zip back and forth a few times and tug gently to check it’s secure.
- Fasten and unfasten all poppers—if any feel loose or weak, the bag isn’t safe. Loose poppers could be a choking hazard, and weak ones might allow the baby to slip inside.
- Turn the seams inside out and check for loose threads or holes. If you spot damage, don’t use it.
- If the bag has embroidery or appliqués, make sure there are no loose ribbons, buttons, or sequins.
3. Check the size
Size is one of the most important safety features. Bags designed to the BS or EN standard are sized to a baby’s weight, not just their age. But if the bag hasn’t been washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, it may have shrunk.
Do a neck opening check:
- When the bag is securely fastened, your baby’s head should not pass through the neck opening.
- You should be able to fit two fingers between the baby’s neck and the opening—this ensures the bag isn’t too tight, which could be uncomfortable at night.
4. Check the fabric feel
- Run your hand over the fabric and the filling. Does it feel lumpy? Natural fillings can shift over time, which may affect the TOG value.
- The outer fabric should feel soft and gentle against your baby’s skin.
5. Check the TOG rating
- The TOG rating should be clearly marked on the care label.
- If the label has faded or is unreadable, that could be a sign of poor quality.
- TOG recommendations vary by brand, so check the manufacturer’s website. You can also find our what-to-wear guide here.
If you have any questions about second-hand baby sleep bags, we’re happy to help. Just drop us a message, and one of our team will get back to you.
