FAQs
PRODUCT INFO AND SAFETY
How should I use Sleepyhead?
Sleepyhead Deluxe and Sleepyhead Grand are designed to be comfy and ultra-reliable sleeping pods for little ones ages 0-36 months. You can use Sleepyhead for safe co-sleeping, crib inserts, supervised tummy time, play time, snuggle time, naps, as a changing station, or any time you need to put baby down in a comforting spot. The Grand is a comfortable spot for toddlers to sleep in overnight and is ideal for safely easing the crib to bed transition. Sleepyhead is lightweight and incredibly easy to travel with. Sleepyhead provides a cozy, safe and non-toxic environment for babies and toddlers anywhere they go.
What is the age range for Sleepyhead?
Sleepyhead Deluxe is meant for ages 0-8 months and Sleepyhead Grand is recommended for tots 9-36 months.
What are the suitable sizes/weights for Sleepyhead?
The Sleepyhead Deluxe is intended for babies approximately 2kgs-10kgs. The Sleepyhead Grand is intended for tots approximately 10kgs-18kgs. Our experience is that parents seem to think the baby has outgrown the Deluxe size way before baby is uncomfortable. The design includes clasps that lengthen the legs of the Sleepyhead Deluxe, so babies can get longer use out of it. The clip at the foot end, specifically on the Grand, is intended to be used for easy portability and storing and must remain unbuckled during use. One of our trademarks – "Reinventing the womb" – indicates that the Sleepyhead is supposed to be snug. There are many users that tell us that they have used the Deluxe size up until 10-12 months. This creates a feeling of snugness, which is very comforting for the child. It's as if the child is being held in a sense.
What's the difference between the Deluxe and Grand?
The Sleepyhead Deluxe is intended for babies 0-8 months and is to be used for sleeping, crib and bassinet inserts, napping, supervised tummy time, safe co-sleeping, changing diapers, cuddling and playing. The Sleepyhead Grand is for tots 9-36 months and can be used for all the same activities as the Deluxe as well as a way to facilitate an easy crib to bed transition and provide a comfortable sleeping space in toddler beds and single beds. The bumpers on the Grand act as a bed guard for young kids, allowing them to settle more easily in a bigger bed and make an easier crib to bed transition.
Can I just purchase the Grand from the start?
We do not recommend the larger size until baby is 9 months old. Many parents use the Deluxe size beyond the 9 month mark, as you can unbuckle the bottom to make more room. Sleepyhead was created to mimic the womb, so the snugger the fit, the better it works. The thicker density provides a safer and more supportive environment for younger babies and is also better for tummy time.
How do I use the clips on my Sleepyhead® Grand?
Always unclip the buckle at the foot end of the Sleepyhead® Grand to ensure a safe environment for baby. The clip at the foot end is intended to be used for easy portability and storing and must remain unbuckled during use.
What are the dimensions of Sleepyhead?
Our Deluxe pod is 460 mm wide x 750-850 mm long [750 mm with clasps closed and 850 mm with clasps open]. The Grand dimensions are 600 mm wide x 1000-1200 mm long [1000 mm with clasps closed and 1200 mm with clasps open]
Is Sleepyhead suitable for cribs and/or bassinets?
Yes, Sleepyhead Deluxe and Grand can be used in cribs or bassinets. Sleepyhead Grand can be used in a crib, a toddler bed or big kid-sized bed, once the child is at least nine months old, and then only placed at a height that allows the child to safely descend on his own. Some parents prefer not to co-sleep. Most cots and cribs are not snug enough for the newborn. By slipping Sleepyhead® in as an insert, the baby sleeps snug and safe. And when it's time to move from the bassinet to a big cot, or from the parents' bed to a crib, the transition is easy with the Sleepyhead as you bring it along and it creates a familiar surrounding for the baby. Please note that soft objects such as pillows, quilts and stuffed toys should not be kept in the Sleepyhead. Also, make sure not to use plush non-breathable crib bumpers. With Sleepyhead, crib bumpers are in fact redundant, as the protective sides of the Sleepyhead prevent the baby’s extremities from getting caught between the slats of the crib.
Is the Sleepyhead safe for my baby when they start rolling around and moving?
Yes, the Sleepyhead was tested for air-permeability and is 100% breathable. Babies will move in their sleep and as they grow, some prefer to sleep to on their tummy. While we have a strong back to sleep stance for safety reasons, we designed the Sleepyhead to be completely breathable since all babies find comfort in different positions.
Does the Sleepyhead help babies with colic?
The first months after baby arrives are often referred to as the "fourth trimester." This is because baby are still very much adjusting to life outside the womb. To help them cope with their new world, parents can re-create a womb-like environment for their newborns, which will also help soothe a colicky baby. The Sleepyhead was created specifically to mimic the womb. It recreates the womb experience for babies by giving them a safe, snug and deliciously comfortable spot to rest and snooze. Sleepyhead also has the perfect micro-climate, meaning the temperature is just right for babies.
Does the Sleepyhead help babies with reflux?
Yes, the comforting environment has helped many babies suffering from reflux. Some parents place a wedge or a towel underneath the Sleepyhead to create more of an incline. However, please make sure that this still forms a STABLE surface.
Can the Sleepyhead be used for co-sleeping (bed-sharing)?
We at Sleepyhead recognize that many people believe strongly that infants and young children should never sleep with adults in their bed while others believe—equally strongly—that such co-sleeping provides valuable emotional benefits. Our founder is a passionate bed-sharer and co-slept with both of her boys when they were infants, using the pod. When used in an adult bed properly, Sleepyhead is very safe for co-sleeping. Just make sure to follow these important instructions: Sleepyhead should always be placed in the middle of the bed (not near the sides) and at the top of the bed during co-sleeping. Sleepyhead and its protective sides facilitate correct back positioning while preventing the baby from rolling out of bed, hitting his head against the headboard, getting caught between the bed and the wall or wriggling down under the covers. The sides also help prevent parents from rolling on top of the baby. The sides are also comfy enough for the parent to have his/her arm over the side to pat and reassure the baby.
What other safety measures should be taken if we’re going to co-sleep with our infant or young child are?
Remove all stuffed toys and other play things
Remove excessive bedding, including thick mattress padding and pillows
Never place an infant or young child on a waterbed
Never leave the child unattended and only allow sleep with an unimpaired adult, one who can awaken easily
Only place an infant face up and in the centre of the pod
Check to be sure that no window cords or the like can be reached from the bed
Do not allow infants to co-sleep with another toddler or child
Do not allow pets in the bed
An adult who is obese should not be allowed to co-sleep with the baby
Whether you use Sleepyhead or not, we urge you to follow the safe sleeping tips extended by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission because absolutely nothing is more important than the safety of a child. Please visit http://www.cpsc.gov/ for more information.
At what age is it appropriate for my child to sleep in the Grand Sleepyhead overnight?
Once your child is approximately 9 months depending on their size and weight, he can safely begin sleeping in the Sleepyhead Grand. However, in order for him to rest safely in the Grand, the Grand must be placed at a height that allows the child to safely descend on his own. Meaning, the pod must not be placed on a bed of an unmanageable height (from which the child cannot descend on his own) nor in a confined space, like a crib.
Can I carry baby around in the pod?
No, the Sleepyhead pods are not made for carrying babies around in them. While they are indeed very portable, it’s not safe to carry a baby around in the pod. Always make sure to remove your child from the pod before transporting it to another room.
Where should Sleepyhead be used?
Sleepyhead should be used only on stable surfaces and never on an elevated surface. While we're on the subject, please make sure never to leave a baby unattended on any type of elevated surfaces - this includes changing tables and sofas. Sleepyhead is to always be placed on top of another firm mattress for prolonged sleep sessions. Sleepyhead can be used on hardwood and tiled floors for shorter sessions, but when using for longer stretches, they should always be placed on top of a bed mattress or similar.
How do I use Sleepyhead for tummy time?
Place the baby in Sleepyhead with the rounded bumper under the baby's chest and armpits with his arms in front of it. This position also allows for play and observation. Prop a board book open in front of your baby, or place a favourite toy within reach. Babies tend to grasp at any interesting objects, in turn encouraging weight-shifting, reaching and fine motor development. A baby on his tummy must be watched at all times. If your baby falls asleep during tummy time, place him on his back in the pod to continue snoozing. Snoozing in the pod must be supervised.
What is the startle (Moro) reflex and how does the Sleepyhead help?
The startle or “moro” reflex is a natural reflex for babies between birth and 6 months. The startle reflex may only last a few seconds, but some babies can startle themselves awake during sleep. Sleepyhead can help prevent the infants from waking up when they have the startle reflex due to the unique shape, positioning of the sides and the cushioning effect of the pod. Consequently, babies tend to get more uninterrupted sleep in the Sleepyhead compared to bassinets and baskets.
CARE
How do I travel with the Sleepyhead?
The Sleepyhead is an ideal travel companion for moms with babies and toddlers, as it maintains familiarity of their comforting bed in a new environment. Please keep the plastic pad. The Sleepyhead® can easily be checked as luggage, but some moms love carrying their pod on and using it on the airplane. With Sleepyhead in tow, you won't need to bring baby up to the hotel room for their mid-day nap. Many moms write in to tell us the sheer luxury of having their little one get their rest while they relax under an umbrella with them at the beach or pool.
Can Sleepyhead be used on top of a waterproof sheet or mattress?
We do not recommend placing a waterproof sheet or mattress underneath Sleepyhead. In fact, we do not ever recommend the use of waterproof materials. All of our materials are breathable, so when placed on top of a non-breathable barrier, such as a waterproof sheet or mattress, there becomes an increased risk of overheating as well as microbial build-up. Overheating is not to be taken lightly, as it has been linked to SIDS. We have refrained from adding anti-dust mite, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial chemicals to the filling materials, so it is important to keep the pod dry, clean and well ventilated. It’s important to avoid high humidity, dampness, and poorly ventilated parts. Like any piece of bedding, it’s important that both cover and core are 100% dried after washing as well as before use or getting stowed away. It's also important to remove the cardboard that comes underneath the mattress before using Sleepyhead.
What do I do with the piece of cardboard in the base?
Once you receive your Sleepyhead, please remove the cardboard inserted into the mattress pad pocket before use. The cardboard is placed in the base only to help the pad retain its shape during shipping. You can save this cardboard for later use if you will be transporting or storing the pod to help ensure the pad remains flat.
How should I wash Sleepyhead?
Thanks to child-safe zippers around the bumper, Sleepyhead® features a fully removable cover, which makes washing easy. All covers are machine washable. Wash with similar colours and place inside a washing bag. We recommend using a detergent without bleach. Dry-cleaning is possible, but not necessary. For environmental reasons, we do not recommend it. The mattress wadding pad must be hand-washed. The bumper tube rarely needs washing; shaking and ventilating are usually enough. If washing the tube, use a washing bag. When wet, the tube should be tumble-dried at low or medium heat. Then fluff/shake it by hand to regain shape. If still somewhat damp, lay flat to dry.
Should I wash the Sleepyhead before using?
It is not necessary to wash the pod before first use. The materials have been washed in the production process. Generally, it’s enough to only wash the cover after use. It’s usually enough simply ventilating the pad and the bumper. It’s environmentally friendly and it will increase the lifespan of the fillings. If you experience a lot of accidents, we recommend placing a thin muslin sheet under the baby. This will save you from middle of the night cover changes.
How do I care for the cover?
The cover is made of 100% cotton. Like every single part of the pod, the cotton cover has been rigorously tested and proven free from harmful substances. As opposed to synthetic fibres, all natural fibres shrink a bit when washed the first time. Thanks to special finishing and pre-washing procedures we have taken, we have reduced the shrinkage to about 2.5-3%. This shrinkage has been taken into account when cutting and sewing the pieces for the cover. However, should the cover be washed in too hot water, tumble-dried or ‘blitz dried” (i.e. on a hot radiator or similar), there is a risk of compromising the fit, as the shrinkage then might exceed the 3%.
Can I buy a replacement cover?
Yes, in fact parents love switching up their covers! Sleepyhead pods are meant to be functional and stylish. We have many chic cover options, such as zebra print, chevron and toile. Babies love the change of scenery, too.
Why are the covers so small?
The design of the Deluxe cover was made to create a sturdy and firm pod. Firstly, the bumper needs to be firm enough to prevent children from rolling out, as well as preventing adults to roll onto the child when bed-sharing. Also, it must have the right bearing capacity to serve as a good tummy time aide. Additionally – the air-permeability testing aside – we wanted to give all parents the physical (in other words ocular and tangible) reassurance that the bumper is safe and there is no smothering risk whatsoever. In other words, we designed a pod with a high density bumper. The fit of the cover is purposely very tight for this reason. The bumper density of the Grand is substantially lower. An older child can use the sides as a pillow, should he wish. Hence, the softer bumper.
How do I change the cover?
When fitting the cover back on, one will see that the bumper in fact is longer than the bumper compartment of the cover. So, when putting the bumper back into the cover, one has to firmly push the bumper tube into the cover as evenly as possible. In order to be able to close the zipper somewhat comfortably, one must gather the two sides of the fabric (along the zipper) in advance so to speak. In addition, we propose placing your index finger under the slider and the thumb on top of it in order to prevent the slider from getting caught in the bumper’s fine outer cover fabric. The outer material of the bumper tube is a thin non-woven, selected to provide great air-permeability and to not harbour heat. Once you have done this a few times, you will get the hang of it for sure.
How do I care for the mattress pad?
Always avoid folding and creasing the mattress pad. Do not squeeze the pod into too small spaces, such as small bassinets or strollers. We strictly advise against machine-washing and tumble-drying the mattress pad, which can cause irreparable folding and creasing of the pad.
Can I purchase spare parts?
Yes, you can purchase replacement items. For example, you can purchase a replacement mattress pad or bumper tube for both the Grand and Deluxe pods here.
DESIGN & BACKGROUND
What materials are used for Sleepyhead?
All materials used to make both the Grand and Deluxe pods are breathable and washable and therefore hygienic. Sleepyhead offers a perfect micro-climate with excellent air-permeability. All filling materials are sourced from world-leading suppliers of materials with hygienic and non-toxic properties. All fibre compositions are designed to create an optimal micro-climate.
Please explain what you mean by micro-climate
The materials are carefully chosen in order not to harbour heat. The air-permeability of all the materials in this particular combination and design is excellent, and we have made sure not to use any waterproof layers within the pod. This is all to ensure that the micro-climate is the best possible. A child dressed correctly – according to the overall room (surrounding) climate – will not be too warm in the Sleepyhead, as air flows through the pod and it does not harbour heat. However, if the room is too warm, a child, too, will be too warm, whether he is lying in a Sleepyhead pod, a moses basket or a crib.
Is the Sleepyhead breathable for baby?
The Deluxe pod is designed with air-permeability in mind, so that the baby's face (mouth and nose) sits comparatively high in relation to the sides. The sides are low and also rounded. A baby correctly positioned in the pod, i.e. on his back, is breathing into “open air” so to speak. The design is made with consideration to not trap used air (breath; carbon dioxide). Unlike other bassinets or baskets, the pod's interior has been carefully engineered in order to achieve maximum breathability.
What is this air-permeability you speak of?
All our pods comply with the British standard on air-permeability for infant pillows, BS4578. This standard is the result of an objective to produce a British Standard specification for a pillow which can confidently be used in cots, perambulators etc. The BSI Committee for Nursery Bedding has tried to consult anyone who may be able to contribute to the solution of the problem of a British Standard safe pillow, and the inquiries have included consultation with physiologists about the breathing of young children (quantity and rate flow of air, psychological and other effects if air flow becomes restricted, etc.). The test is designed to replicate a baby placing its mouth on/against an item, and measures how easily it can breathe through the item. It measures the pressure (in mmH2O) required to allow 12 litres of air per minute through the item (which is how much a baby typically breaths). Air-permeability standards were established only for infant pillows, but we decided to meet these standards for our pods. At Sleepyhead, we are always doing our best to go above and beyond the call of duty with regards to the highest quality standards.
Where is the Sleepyhead made?
The factory where the pods are made is based in a picturesque European town. There are more than 30 workers devoted to making Sleepyhead pods every day of the year. These talented workers pride themselves on craftsmanship, and carefully and expertly hand cut, hand-stitch and hand sew each Sleepyhead baby pod.
How did we come up with our pricing?
We’ve made it our mission to create products that are unparalleled in terms of their multi-functionality, quality in materials, excellent craftsmanship and safety measures. In fact, the Sleepyhead team has gone above and beyond any legal requirements when it comes to safety testing.
Much attention to detail has also gone into the creation of our spare covers costs. It’s important to remember that the cover is an all-in-one piece that’s perfectly fitted, and includes several compartments holding the embroidery, the zippers, the handles, the labels, the strap and the buckles. All of these details need careful repeating on each individual cover. There’s a lot more to our covers than your average pillow case.
Sleepyhead is highly versatile, ensuring that you won’t be purchasing multiple products. Sleepyhead is hypoallergenic and fully machine washable. Sleepyhead is designed in Sweden with love and embodies Scandinavian design at its very best. All of our products are made in Europe under strict EU regulations, which guarantee very high standards and extreme safety. Sleepyhead simplifies life for parents—and you can’t put a price on that.
Where is Sleepyhead available?
For a full list of retail stores selling Sleepyhead, please check out our store locator page.