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The Secrets of Dimples Merino, Natures Miracle
Marvellous Merino – and How to Care for It Dimples high-quality Merino is made in New Zealand and designed to last – treat it with love and care and it will stay looking beautiful for years to come. Why Merino? Merino wool truly is nature’s miracle. Its warm, soft, breathable fibres keep your little one comfortable all year round. Because babies take time to develop the ability to regulate their temperature – and can’t tell us if they’re too hot or cold – Merino clothing and sleepwear offer peace of mind. The natural fibres form little pockets of insulating air, keeping warmth in on chilly days and helping release heat when it’s warm. Other wonderful benefits of Merino: Naturally hypoallergenic – gentle on delicate skin and suitable for babies with eczema, allergies, or sensitivities Naturally flame-resistant – without added chemicals Moisture-wicking – absorbs moisture while staying warm and drying quickly Stain-resistant – perfect for little spills and dribbles Keeps its shape – it stretches with your baby, then springs right back after each wash Made to Last Each Dimples Merino garment is lovingly hand-sewn and embroidered by our talented team right here in New Zealand. Crafted with care and attention to detail, these pieces are designed to last – ready to be worn, washed, and passed down through generations. To help your Merino stay soft, beautiful, and in great condition, it just needs a little extra love when it comes to care. How to Wash Merino Always check the garment’s care label first Do not soak – for stubborn stains, we recommend Sard Wonder Soap. Wet the stain in cold water, rub on the soap, agitate gently, then rinse thoroughly Use a wool-approved detergent like Earthwise Wool & Delicates. Dilute the detergent before adding to your washing machine – never pour directly onto the fabric Avoid detergents that contain eco-brighteners or enzymes, which can damage Merino fibres (even some ‘baby’ or ‘eco’ detergents) Use the wool wash cycle on your machine, or hand wash gently in cold water Rinse well, gently squeeze (no twisting), and lay flat to dry in the shade Never bleach, rub, soak or tumble dry. Merino prefers to be air-dried Cool steam iron if needed – and yes, it’s dry cleanable if preferred How to Dry Merino Merino should be air-dried flat in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause fading or damage, and tumble dryers are a no-go. How to Store Merino Because Dimples Merino contains no chemicals, it can be extra appealing to clothes moths. If you're packing your garments away for a while: Wash and dry them first Store in a sealed garment bag or container Clothes Moths – What to Watch For Noticed tiny holes? Pop the item into a sealed bag and freeze for 72 hours – this helps eliminate any moth larvae. After freezing, rewash the garment as usual. Shop the full range of our luxurious Merino here
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How to Dress your baby for Sleep
Dressing Your Baby for Sleep – A Seasonal Guide Knowing how to dress your baby at bedtime can feel like a bit of a guessing game – especially when the seasons start to change. Should you add another layer? Is the room too cool? Are their hands meant to be that cold? To help take the guesswork out, we’ve put together a simple guide to dressing your little one for sleep using our Dimples sleeping bags and sleepwalkers, without any additional blankets. A Gentle Reminder Every baby is different, so this guide is just that – a guide. The best way to check if your baby is at a comfortable temperature is by feeling the back of their neck. It should feel warm, not hot or sweaty. Hands and feet can feel cooler and aren't always a reliable indicator. Baby’s body temperature naturally dips during the early morning hours, so if your little one is waking more often than usual, it might be worth checking if they’re feeling a bit chilly. And remember – when it comes to sleep, it’s safer for babies to be slightly cool rather than too warm. Choosing the Right Layers When dressing your baby, natural fibres like Merino wool or cotton are best. These breathable fabrics help regulate temperature and keep your baby comfortable through the night. Merino in particular is a year-round superstar – its clever fibres trap warm air on cooler nights and allow heat to escape on warmer ones, making it ideal for all seasons. At Dimples, all of our garments are designed especially for keeping little ones cosy and safe. We recommend having at least two sleeping bags or sleepwalkers on hand for each season, so you’re always prepared for the inevitable midnight messes. Ideal Room Temperature The ideal temperature for a baby’s room is between 16–20°C. If you’re using a heater or heat pump, setting the thermostat to 18°C will help maintain a steady climate through the night without overheating. Monitoring the Room Many baby monitors display room temperature, which can be a helpful reference.Alternatively, something like the Shnuggle Moon Nightlight can be used to keep an eye on the room temperature. It uses a handy colour display to show whether the room is sitting within the ideal range. Signs Your Baby May Be Too Warm Waking more frequently than usual Sweaty back or neck Damp hair Shallow or rapid breathing If you notice these signs, try removing a layer or adjusting the room temperature. A cool, damp cloth on the back of their neck can help if they’re feeling very warm – and always check for fever if you’re concerned. Signs Your Baby May Be Too Cold Restless sleep or unusual movement around the cot Rolling onto their stomach Catnapping during the day Waking around 5am If any of these sound familiar, consider adding a layer, using a warmer sleeping bag, or gently warming the room. Dressing your baby for sleep doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few key pieces and a little trial and error, you’ll find the sweet spot that keeps them cosy and safe – all night long 😴 Explore our full sleepwear range to find breathable, natural fibre options for every season.And if you’re ever unsure, we’re here to help.
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Protecting your baby from the cold this Winter
How to Dress Your Newborn in Winter When winter sets in, keeping your newborn snug and comfortable becomes a top priority. Dressing baby in natural, breathable layers helps to regulate their temperature and reduce the risk of overheating or getting too cold. At the heart of this is Merino wool – a super-soft, temperature-regulating fibre that’s perfect for delicate skin. Merino is the ideal base for your baby’s winter wardrobe. It works to insulate when it’s cold and cools when it’s warm, keeping baby cosy without the need for bulky layers. At the same time, organic cotton can be used alongside Merino for gentle layering or in warmer indoor settings, giving you flexibility as the temperature shifts. Why Merino is the Best Choice for Winter Unlike synthetic fibres, Merino is breathable, moisture-wicking, and ultra-soft, making it an excellent next-to-skin layer. It naturally helps regulate body temperature, which is essential in those early weeks when your baby can’t do it themselves. Cotton is also a trusted option, especially for sensitive skin. While it doesn’t insulate quite like Merino, it’s great for layering over Merino or wearing in warmer rooms or during nap times when baby doesn’t need as much warmth. What to Dress Baby In During the Day At Home When indoors, comfort is key. A Merino bodysuit or baby grow offers the right amount of warmth without overheating. For mild days or heated rooms, you might choose a cotton bodysuit as the base, layering a Merino cardigan or leggings on top. Combining the two materials gives you the best of both worlds – Merino for temperature regulation, cotton for softness and breathability. Heading Out When you're on the go, think in layers. Start with a Merino base layer, followed by a cotton or Merino baby grow. Add mittens, a beanie, and a warm blanket in the pram or carrier. A simple rule: dress baby in one more layer than you’re wearing. Merino accessories like socks and hats are especially good for keeping warmth in, as babies lose a lot of heat through their head and feet. Dressing Baby for the Car For car rides, avoid bulky outerwear that interferes with the car seat harness. Dress baby in Merino and/or cotton layers, and use a blanket over the harness if needed. Merino’s warmth means you don’t need excessive layers, making it ideal for safe travel. How to Dress Your Baby for Sleep The ideal room temperature for baby’s sleep is between 16°C and 20°C. Use breathable Merino sleepwear and a Dimples Sleeping Bag suited to the room’s temperature (based on TOG rating) to help keep your baby warm and safe without overheating. Sleepwear suggestions: 16°C – Duvet Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 2–3) over a Merino baby grow, cotton or Merino bodysuit, and socks. 18°C – Merino Lined Sleeping Bag (TOG 1.5–2.5) with a cotton bodysuit and Merino baby grow. 20°C – Summer Sleeping Bag (TOG 1–2) over a lightweight cotton or Merino bodysuit. Using a cotton bodysuit underneath Merino layers is a great option if your baby tends to run warm, or if your home is well heated. Why Layering Matters Layering natural fibres gives you the flexibility to adjust to your baby’s needs throughout the day. Merino next to the skin helps regulate their temperature, while cotton adds comfort and light coverage. If you’re unsure what your baby needs, check the back of their neck – warm (but not sweaty) means they’re just right. Adjust layers as needed. Why Choose Dimples At Dimples, we’ve been lovingly making New Zealand Merino and organic cotton clothing for over 30 years. Our Merino comes from trusted NZ sources, designed with your baby’s wellbeing in mind – soft against their skin, naturally breathable, and kind to the planet. Whether you’re layering for winter sleep or everyday wear, our Merino baby grows, bodysuits, sleeping bags, accessories, and blankets are crafted to keep your little one comfortable, safe, and warm through every season. Cotton remains a wonderful companion to Merino, offering softness and flexibility in your baby’s wardrobe. Together, they make a perfect pair. Explore the full range of Dimples Merino and Organic Cotton essentials online or in store.
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Must-have items to pack in your nappy bag
The Ultimate Nappy Bag Checklist: Be Ready for Anything Leaving the house without your nappy bag? That’s the kind of chaos every parent dreads. Whether it’s a surprise nappy blowout or a teething meltdown mid-supermarket shop, being prepared can turn potential disasters into minor hiccups. That said, there’s a balance to strike. Overpacking can make your bag heavy and hard to manage — underpacking leaves you without the essentials when you need them most. What you pack depends on your baby’s age, where you’re going, and how long you’ll be out. To make things easier, here’s your ultimate nappy bag checklist - designed to help you leave the house calm, confident, and ready for anything. Start with the right bag You’ll want a nappy bag that’s both practical and stylish. Something that works for both parents and doesn’t scream “baby gear.” Look for one with plenty of compartments, bottle holders, and enough space to fit everything without being bulky. We have a gorgeous range of stylish bags, shop them here. What to pack For changing: Nappies – more than you think you’ll need Baby wipes – either travel packs or your own stash in a reusable snap-lock bag. Nappy rash cream – keep a small tube in your bag. Change mat – compact and easy to clean. Most good nappy bags come with one, you can also get disposable ones. Nappy disposal bags – for dirty nappies or any messy surprises. Hand sanitiser or wipes – for quick cleanups when a bathroom’s not nearby. Spare clothes – at least one full change, maybe two if you’re toilet training. Warm layers in case the temperature drops. For feeding: Bibs – always helpful for dribbles or spills. Bottles and formula – if bottle-feeding, bring everything you’ll need. An insulated bottle can be handy too. Muslin cloth or burp cloth – great for burping and as a lightweight feeding cover. Baby food and utensils – a travel pouch, and spoon and bowl if you’re onto solids. General extras: Teething toy or small distraction – for those fussy moments on the go. First-aid basics – baby sunscreen, plasters Sunhat and beanie – be ready for any weather. Dummy – keep a spare in the bag so you’re never caught short. Wrap – useful as a swaddle, sunshade, blanket, or emergency carrier. Don’t forget Mum’s must-haves: Breast pads – to prevent leaks if you’re nursing. Water and snacks – a must when you're running on empty. Spare top and bra – messes don’t just happen to the baby! Sunscreen and hat – you’ll need protection too. Final tip: restock after each outing Once you’re home, do a quick check and restock your nappy bag so you’re ready to go next time. Think about the different scenarios you might face and pack with those in mind. Multipurpose items help you save space and stay organised — no need to carry the kitchen sink!
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Ready to Pack your Beach Bag with Us?
Beach Days Made Easy ☀️ Summer’s here — and if you’re heading to the beach with a baby in tow, you’ll know that travelling light is officially a thing of the past. Gone are the days of throwing a towel and book in a tote and calling it a day. But the good news? Dimples has you covered with all the practical, beautiful beach day essentials to keep your little one protected, comfy, and stylish — and make your life just a little bit easier. 🎒 Pretty Brave Stella Baby Bag The Stella Baby Bag from Pretty Brave is the kind of multitasking hero that every parent needs. Spacious enough to carry all your beach-day essentials, yet stylish enough to double as your weekend bag, it’s designed for real life — sand and all. Inside, you’ll also find a padded change mat that makes those on-the-go nappy changes a breeze. Pack everything from snacks and sunscreen to spare togs and toys — there’s room for it all, without feeling bulky or overstuffed. 🏖️ Wildride Toddler Carrier Ditch the bulky buggy and embrace beach freedom with the Wildride Toddler Carrier. Whether you're navigating sandy paths or just don’t want to wrestle a pram through the dunes, this stylish hip carrier is a smart alternative for toddlers aged 9 months to 4 years (up to 20kg). Ergonomic, compact, and quick to throw on, it offers support without the strain - perfect for when little legs get tired or you’re trying to keep both hands free. Bonus: it folds up small and easily fits into your beach bag when not in use. 🌊 Crywolf Baby & Kids Swimwear Splash-ready and sun-smart, Crywolf swimwear is a go-to for little adventurers. Each piece is made from recycled fibres, offering high protection from the sun while being gentle on the planet. The prints are playful, the coverage is practical, and the quality is built to last - so you can focus on the fun knowing your child is comfy, covered, and looking cute as ever. 🕶️ IZIPIZI Sunglasses Keep those little eyes protected in style with IZIPIZI sunglasses. With 100% UV protection, these sunnies aren’t just adorable — they’re essential for sunny days, whether you’re at the beach, on a walk, or relaxing in the backyard. Available in sizes for babies right through to big kids, IZIPIZI offers thoughtful, lightweight designs that stay on (yes, even on the wriggly ones) and suit every stage. 🌞 Nude Alchemist SPF30 Natural Sunscreen This gentle, broad-spectrum SPF30 sunscreen is specially formulated for delicate skin — making it a family beach bag essential. The Nude Alchemist Natural Sunscreen is made with non-nano zinc oxide for effective sun protection, plus nourishing natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil to soothe and hydrate. Free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and artificial fragrances, it’s safe for babies aged 3 months and up. It’s also reef-safe, water-resistant, and rubs in smoothly with minimal whitening. Just good, honest sun care you can feel great about. 🐚 Over the Dandelions Hooded Muslin Towel Wrap your little one in soft, breathable comfort after a splash in the sea. The Over the Dandelions Hooded Muslin Towel is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton muslin — lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying, even on those humid summer days. Its generous size and gentle texture make it perfect for drying off, cuddling up, or providing a little shade on the walk back to the car. A must-have for warm-weather adventures. 👒 Dimples Sunhat No beach kit is complete without a good sunhat, and Dimples makes this essential extra lovely. Designed with a wide brim to help shade baby’s face and eyes, these hats are made from soft, breathable fabrics in timeless colours and textures that mix and match effortlessly. Cute, comfy, and protective — it’s the kind of hat you’ll reach for every time you head outdoors. ☀️ Ready, Set, Sun Whether you’re headed to the coast, the local splash pad, or just your own backyard, Dimples has everything you need to make the most of summer with your little one. Thoughtfully chosen, beautifully made, and ready for real life. Pop in-store or browse online to build your ultimate beach day kit — we’ll help you pack like a pro.
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Dimples Cotton- High Quality Designed to Last
Dimples Cotton: Naturally Better for Summer As the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to refresh your little one’s wardrobe with breathable, natural fabrics. At Dimples, we’re passionate about creating clothing that not only looks beautiful but feels good and does good too — for your baby and the planet. Our cotton is soft, strong, and certified to the highest global standards. The yarn carries GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, and our dyeing process is certified by OEKO-TEX®, ensuring it's free from harmful substances and gentle on sensitive skin. Why Choose Cotton? Cotton is a natural fibre that’s ideal for dressing babies during warmer months. It’s breathable, absorbent, and lightweight — helping to keep your little one cool, dry, and comfortable as temperatures rise. Unlike synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture and cause overheating or irritation, cotton allows air to flow and helps prevent heat rashes by drawing moisture away from the skin. In fact, cotton can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture before it even starts to feel damp. At Dimples, we use only high-quality cotton that's soft enough for delicate skin but durable enough to be worn, washed, and passed down to the next little one. Caring for Your Dimples Cotton Dimples cotton is designed to be lived in — and washed often. There’s no need for special treatment here. Simply pop it in the washing machine with your everyday laundry. It’s made to last and look good doing it. Timeless Quality Inspired by the joy of childhood and the beauty of everyday moments. You’ll find a variety of silhouettes, from newborn essentials to stylish toddler pieces, all made in our signature soft cotton and designed to mix, match, and move with your little one. Our garments are made with care, built to last, and designed with timelessness in mind — so they can be loved now, and lovingly handed down later. Shop the full range Here
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No matter the colour, all our clothes are green on the inside
Dimples has always been a proud New Zealand brand, with strong Kiwi values. Protecting the environment is one of them. Even as we’ve grown from a home business to a larger company, that commitment hasn’t changed. The clothing industry is notoriously hard on the environment – and on the people involved. It can cause incredible environmental and social damage worldwide: from cotton farms that suck up huge amounts of valuable water, to clothing factories using harsh chemicals and exploiting their workers; from the use of fossil fuels for shipping, to ‘fast fashion’ that ends up in landfills after a few wears. We work hard to minimise our impact on the environment by keeping our production in New Zealand, using local materials as much as possible, and avoiding the factory system altogether. It’s about protecting our world long term – and making adorable, high quality baby gear at the same time. Made here, sold here Dimples clothing is produced right here in New Zealand. This lets us avoid shipping product across the world using harmful fossil fuels – it’s one of the most important ways that we reduce our environmental impact. Making our clothes in New Zealand also means that we can control the quality of our product, and the working conditions of our sewers. We know that all our clothing is produced to an extremely high standard, by workers who are paid well and treated fairly. That’s incredibly valuable. Starting from scratch Where clothing is assembled isn’t the only factor when it comes to the environment. Sourcing the raw materials – merino wool and cotton , in our case – is also important. Our merino comes from a mix of New Zealand and Australian sheep, which means the raw materials don’t have to travel very far, and we can keep an eye on the quality. New Zealand’s climate isn’t suitable for large-scale cotton production, so we import only pure, organic-certified cotton to make sure the impact of cotton farming is minimal. Small scale production Dimples started out as a home-based business, and although we’ve grown, we haven’t changed all that much. We don’t have a huge factory producing our clothing – instead, our expert sewers work from their homes. It’s essentially a scaled-up version of the small home workshop where it all started. The classic Dimples bee and rose are still hand-stitched onto every garment. This system doesn’t just result in a better quality product, it also helps us avoid the environmental costs of factory production – we don’t use huge amounts of power to run machinery, or process our materials using harsh chemicals. Made to last The end result of our high-quality materials and high production values is hard-wearing, long-lasting clothing. Our customers find that our clothing lasts through wash after wash without fading, stretching or pilling. Many customers use our clothing for multiple children, then pass it on to friends or family. This is environmentally friendly in itself – the more your child or children can wear each garment, the less you’ll need to throw away. This reduces the need for production and reduces the amount of landfill. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to our beautiful world. We’re not green because it’s trendy or expected, we’re green because we care – and we always will. Take a look at our NZ made clothing now
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Baby Swimming Lessons
Swimming is a key life skill, especially when you live in NZ - an island nation with a vast coastline, not to mention all the rivers and lakes. Taking your little one to swimming lessons can have many benefits including the physical (coordination, strength, and motor skills). It’s also a bonding opportunity for Mum, Dad or caregiver to have fun interactions with baby and create memories. And of course, there’s the safety benefit. According to Water Safety NZ, one of the leading causes of death for the under-fives in New Zealand is drowning. Introducing your baby to swimming lessons can be a fantastic way to help them develop water safety skills as well as confidence. Start them young Babies spend their first nine months of existence floating in a pool of warm liquid, so reintroducing them to water is something of an instinctive experience. A good first step to developing water confidence in babies is making bath time engaging and enjoyable. If, with lots of positive reinforcement and support, you can get them used to having water trickling over their head and face, that’s a great start. Swimming lessons Once they’re six months old, babies can go to water safety lessons at a public pool By this age Their immune system will have developed enough give them protection from bugs in the pool water They’re better able to cope with the changes in temperature They’ll have the necessary head control to keep their head above water Their ears will be better able to deal with water if it gets in. Baby swimming classes are less about learning to swim and more about water familiarisation and confidence. Over time they’ll start to make progress towards essential water safety skills, including how to float, kick, and hold their breath. Generally with baby swim classes, Mum or Dad (or grandparent or other caregiver) gets in the pool too, joining in to help build bub’s confidence and keeping things fun with interactive play. It’s likely to start with gentle splashing and activities that encourage movement through the water. Tips for swimming lessons Family changing rooms are great and, if there's room, take your stroller. If you get your little one changed, they can then sit in the stroller while you get changed. Swimming will use up lots of energy – make sure you’ve got what you need to re-fuel them afterwards, whether it's a breast or bottle feed, or a snack Changes in temperature can be hard on little ones – make sure you dress them warmly for the trip out to the car in colder weather. If possible, bring along an extra person to help, it can make all the difference especially if you have both a baby and an older child having lessons. What you need Babies will need a swim nappy . These reusable ones offer an adjustable fit from baby to toddler and are machine washable. When choosing swimwear, opt for chlorine-resistant swimsuits for girls and boys that offer 50+ sun protection so they work for the pool or beach A towel Hooded towel or robe can be great for getting them warm and dry quickly A padded change mat is great to have when faced with a damp changing room Dry clothes and spare nappies to keep everyone snug and happy post-swim. Be Safe Always be aware of the dangers for little ones around water – be that the bath, beach or pool. Never leave them unattended. Babies and toddlers should always be within arms’ reach when you’re in or around water - don’t rely on flotation aids like air rings or armbands. Be alert to hazards in your environment. Swimming pools and spas must be fenced to NZ Standards. Consider also ponds, water features and paddling pools that might be a danger to a curious little one.
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Which one? Sleeping Bags vs Sleepwalkers
Choosing the Right Sleepwear: Sleeping Bags vs Sleepwalkers A safe, consistent bedtime routine starts with the right sleepwear – and at Dimples, we believe our Sleeping Bags and Sleepwalkers offer families a practical and gentle solution for better sleep. Whether your little one is still in a cot or has started to roam, we have options to suit every stage and season. Sleeping Bags Perfect from newborn through to early toddlerhood, Sleeping Bags are designed to keep your baby snug and secure during sleep. With snap domes at the armholes for a cosy fit, they’re ideal while your baby is still sleeping in a cot. Why choose a Sleeping Bag? Keeps your baby warm all night – no more kicked-off blankets. A great way to transition from swaddles or pods, offering a familiar cocooned feeling. Easy nappy changes with a two-way zip and dome shoulder access. Layer with Merino sleepwear underneath for added warmth and comfort. Choose from two weights to suit your home and the season: The All-Season Sleeping Bag lined with 100% Merino and suitable for 18–24°C rooms The Duvet Weight Sleeping Bag with added cotton wadding for colder nights, ideal for 12–18°C Sleepwalkers Once your baby is on the move and transitioning into a toddler bed, a Sleepwalker offers more freedom. These clever suits are designed for little ones who wriggle, crawl, or walk during sleep and after waking. Providing you with two products combined into one neat design, the Sleepwalker performs as a cosy sleeping bag at night-time then once pulled above baby’s feet it can become a dressing gown that baby can safely crawl and walk around in. Why choose a Sleepwalker? Designed for active toddlers who like to move or stand up on their own. Long legs mean it works like a sleeping bag during the night – and when it’s morning, they can simply pull their feet through. No risk of tripping or slipping when they get up. Still a great sleep cue, helping signal it’s time for rest. Available in: The All-Season Sleepwalker lined with 100% Merino and suitable for 18–24°C rooms The Duvet Weight Sleepwalker with added cotton wadding for colder nights, ideal for 12–18°C Why Merino Matters Every one of our Sleeping Bags and Sleepwalkers is lined with 100% Merino – a natural fibre known for being breathable, moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. It helps your baby stay warm when it’s cool and cool when it’s warm, reducing the risk of overheating. That’s why Merino is one of the best choices for baby sleepwear. We recommend checking your baby’s temperature by feeling behind their neck and layering underneath accordingly – ideally with Merino sleepwear for the best performance. It’s always safer for baby to be slightly cool than too warm during sleep. Creating Healthy Sleep Habits Using a sleep bag or sleepwalker regularly helps your little one develop strong sleep associations and a calming routine. We recommend having two on rotation so you always have a clean one on hand – especially helpful for travel or night-time accidents. If you’re unsure which style or weight is right for your baby, don’t hesitate to get in touch or pop into store – our team is here to help guide you towards the perfect sleep solution for your little one.
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