Anchor & Arrow Blog

As the chilly winter nights fade and the first signs of spring begin to bloom, many parents wonder: How do I dress my baby for sleep when the weather is all over the place? One night it feels like winter is still hanging around, and the next it’s suddenly warm enough to throw open the windows. Dressing your little one comfortably, and safely, through this change can feel tricky, but don’t worry. We’re here to guide you through TOG ratings, layering tips, and what works best for springtime sleep. What is a TOG rating? TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade - a handy way of measuring how warm a baby’s sleeping bag is. The higher the TOG, the warmer it will keep your baby. Here’s a quick breakdown: 0.2–0.5 TOG → Lightweight for hot summer nights (24°C+) 1.0 TOG → Great for warmer rooms (21–24°C) 2.5 TOG → Perfect for transitional seasons like spring & autumn (16–20°C) 3.5 TOG → Snug and cosy for the coldest winter nights (under 16°C) Why Spring Can Be Tricky  Spring nights can be unpredictable. One evening feels balmy, the next is crisp and cool. This is where 2.5 TOG sleeping bags really shine. They’re warm enough to handle a cool night but still breathable when mornings start to warm up. Think of them as the “all-rounder” of baby sleepwear, ideal for that in-between season. Dressing Your Baby in Spring: A Simple Guide A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you’d wear yourself. But here’s a more detailed guide for those in-between temps: Chilly Spring Nights (Room 15–18°C):2.5 TOG sleeping bag + long-sleeve romper or layers underneath. Milder nights (Room 18–21°C):2.5 TOG sleeping bag + short-sleeve romper. Warm Evenings (Room 21–24°C):Switch to a 1.0 TOG sleeping bag + lightweight layers. A simple tip: do the neck check, if your baby’s neck feels warm (not sweaty, not cold), they’re dressed just right. Always check the back of your baby’s neck or chest, not their hands or feet, to make sure they’re comfortably warm, not sweaty or cold. Don't Over Layer Making sure your baby’s sleepwear matches the room temperature is key to keeping them safe and comfortable. While it’s natural to want to keep your little one warm and snug, as spring temperatures start to rise it’s important not to overdress or over-layer. Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS, so always check in on your baby to make sure they’re cosy — not too hot or too cold. Layering Tips for Tricky Spring Weather  Choose natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Skip blankets inside the cot (a sleeping bag is all they need). Add or remove layers under the sleeping bag to adapt to the room temperature. Spring Sleep Made Simple  At Anchor & Arrow, our sleeping bags and rompers are designed to make seasonal transitions easy - soft, breathable and thoughtfully created to keep your baby safe and snug. Explore our full sleep collection here. Final Thoughts  Transitioning from winter to spring sleep doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little know-how about TOG ratings, layering and fabric choice, you’ll keep your baby comfortable (and hopefully sleeping soundly!) as the seasons change. Shop our entire range of sleeping bags here, don't just stop their complete an entire nursery look with our super soft jersey cotton cot sheets. Make bedtime a breeze with Anchor and Arrow.      

Father’s Day is the perfect chance to slow down, stay in your PJs a little longer, and make Dad feel extra loved. And what better way to celebrate than with a homemade breakfast whipped up by the kids? (with a little help from mum, of course).  Sure, the kitchen might look like a flour bomb went off... but that’s part of the magic. The giggles, sticky fingers and proud smiles when they carry breakfast to Dad in bed are the moments he’ll remember forever. To help, we’ve pulled together 5 easy Father’s Day breakfast recipes kids can help make. They’re fun, a little messy, and guaranteed to make Dad’s morning special. 1. Pancake Stack with All the Toppings 🥞 Why it’s perfect: Pancakes are a classic Father’s Day breakfast idea — easy for kids to help with and endlessly customisable. Ingredients: 1 cup self-raising flour 1 tbsp sugar 1 egg 1 cup milk Butter for frying Toppings: berries, banana, choc chips, maple syrup, honey, sprinkles Steps: In a big bowl, let the kids whisk together flour, sugar, egg and milk until smooth. (Mess = memory!) Heat a pan, add a little butter, and pour small rounds of batter in. Flip when bubbles appear. Stack them high and let the kids go wild with toppings. Kid job: Pour, stir, sprinkle toppings.Mum job: Supervise hot pan + flipping. 2. DIY Fruit & Yoghurt Parfaits 🍓 Why it’s perfect: These look café-worthy but take only 5 minutes. A healthy Father’s Day breakfast idea that still feels special. Ingredients: 2 cups Greek yoghurt (or any yoghurt Dad likes) 1 cup granola or muesli 2 cups chopped fruit (berries, banana, mango, kiwi) Honey for drizzling Steps: Line up clear glasses or jars. Kids layer yoghurt, granola, fruit — repeat until the glass is full. Drizzle with honey for a sweet finish. Kid job: Layering fruit + yoghurt like little chefs.Mum job: Chopping fruit into safe pieces. Pro tip: Looks fancy, but takes 5 minutes. Perfect for the “last minute” breakfast planners. 3. Bacon & Egg Roll (with Dad’s Favourite Sauce) 🥓🍳 Why it’s perfect: A hearty, simple recipe the kids can assemble while you handle the stove. Ingredients: 2 bread rolls 2 eggs 4 rashers bacon Dad’s favourite sauce (BBQ, ketchup, chilli) Optional: cheese, avo, tomato Steps: Cook bacon until crispy, fry eggs sunny-side-up. Lightly toast the rolls. Kids assemble the rolls: bacon, egg, extras, and a big squeeze of Dad’s go-to sauce. Kid job: Buttering rolls, adding sauce, “building” the roll.Mum job: Cooking bacon + eggs safely. Cheeky idea: Get the kids to write a menu card with “Dad’s Diner” at the top! 4. Smoothie Bar Fun 🍌🥭 Why it’s perfect: Quick, healthy, and a great Father’s Day breakfast option for dads who love something light. Ingredients: 2 bananas 1 cup frozen berries 1 cup milk or juice ½ cup yoghurt Optional: spoon of peanut butter or honey Steps: Kids toss fruit, yoghurt and milk into blender. Blend until smooth (kids love pressing the button!). Pour into a tall glass, add a silly straw. Kid job: Loading blender + pressing buttons.Mum job: Supervising blades + pouring. Pro tip: Freeze fruit the night before for a cold, thick smoothie. 5. Croissant Bar 🥐 Why it’s perfect: A “build-your-own” brekkie where kids feel in charge. Sweet or savoury, the choice is Dad’s. Ingredients: Fresh croissants Fillings: ham, cheese, tomato, avo, Nutella, jam, strawberries Butter Steps: Warm croissants in oven for 5 minutes. Slice and set up a “filling bar.” Let the kids assemble Dad’s croissant order. Kid job: Spreading butter, adding fillings.Mum job: Toasting croissants. Final Note: Father’s Day is About the Memories 💛 It doesn’t matter if the pancakes are a little lopsided or the eggs are slightly crispy, what counts is the joy of making something together. Father’s Day breakfast at home is one of the easiest ways for kids to feel involved in celebrating Dad. Embrace the mess, snap photos of their proud little faces and let Dad soak up every bite (and every cuddle). ✨ PS: Want to level up the morning? Pair breakfast with a gift from our Father’s Day Matching Sets Collection. The perfect way for Dad and his little mini to celebrate in style — twinning while they tuck into pancakes. 🧢    

Why Is My Baby Waking at 4am? It Could Be the Cold. If your baby is suddenly waking at 4am, bright-eyed and restless, you're not alone. One of the most common reasons little ones stir during the early morning hours is simple: they’re cold. It might surprise you to learn that the coldest part of the night is usually between 3am and 5am, when your baby’s body temperature naturally dips. If they’re not dressed warmly enough or the room temperature drops too much, it can lead to an early wakeup (and a tired start to the day for everyone!). Time to check the TOG of your winter sleeping bag to make sure it's warm enough for your baby. Here’s how to tell if your baby is waking due to the chill and what you can do to keep them cosy, safe, and sleeping longer. ❄️  Babies can’t tell us they’re cold, but their bodies do show signs. Here’s what to look for: Cold chest, tummy or neck (not just hands or feet, those are usually cooler naturally) Frequent early waking, especially between 3am–5am Difficulty settling back to sleep despite not being hungry or wet Fussiness or restlessness in the early morning hours What Temperature Should a Baby’s Room Be? Experts recommend keeping your baby’s room between 20–22°C (68–72°F) for safe and comfortable sleep. This can be tricky during the cooler months when the temperature can drop significantly overnight. We recommend using a room thermometer to keep an eye on it, especially in winter. What Should Baby Wear to Bed? Choosing the right sleepwear is key to helping your baby stay warm and sleep soundly, without overheating. Here’s our go to guide for cooler nights: Layering Guide: A cotton singlet or bodysuit (short or long-sleeve, depending on room temp) A light or mid-weight onesie  A TOG rated sleeping bag or sleep suit Which TOG Should You Use? TOG stands for “Thermal Overall Grade” — it tells you how warm a sleep bag is. Room Temperature Recommended TOG Our Pick 24°C+ 0.2 – 0.5 TOG Light-Weight Sleep Bag 20–23°C 1.0 TOG Mid-Weight Sleep Bag 16–20°C 2.5 TOG Winter Sleep Bag Under 16°C 3.5 TOG Extra Warm Sleep Bag   Anchor & Arrow sleeping bags are designed to keep your little one warm through the coldest part of the night — made with breathable, natural fibres that help regulate temperature and promote deeper, safer sleep.

A common question that gets asked alot amongst parents is... How do i know if my babies sleeping bag needs to have sleeves or no sleeves? Well good news, we have your solution.   Continue reading to find out what we recommend and use with our little ones of a night time... When it comes to ensuring your little one gets a good night's sleep, every parent wants to make the best choices. One decision that often arises is whether to opt for a sleeping bag with sleeves or without sleeves for your baby or toddler. Both options have their benefits, and understanding them can help you make the right choice for your child's comfort and safety. Sleeping Bags with sleeves: Snug and Secure  Sleeping bags with sleeves offer a cocoon-like experience for your little one. They provide full coverage, ensuring that your baby's arms are also kept warm throughout the night. This can be particularly beneficial during colder seasons or in cooler climates, providing an extra layer of insulation.   For babies who tend to move around a lot during sleep, sleeves can help keep them snug and secure. They prevent little arms from slipping out of the bag, reducing the risk of your child getting tangled or uncovered during the night.   Additionally, sleeves can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort, mimicking the feeling of being wrapped up in a blanket or held close, which can help soothe restless sleepers. Shop Winter Sleeping Bags here No Sleeves: Freedom of Movement  On the other hand, sleeping bags without sleeves provide greater freedom of movement for your little one. Toddlers who are more active during sleep or prefer to have their arms free may find these options more comfortable. Without the restriction of sleeves, toddlers can move and adjust more easily within their sleeping bag, allowing them to find their preferred sleeping position without feeling confined. Sleeping bags without sleeves are also ideal for warmer climates or seasons when extra layers may be unnecessary and could cause overheating. Our sleep basics rompers make the best base layer to pop under your little ones sleeping bag. Shop Sleeveless Sleeping Bags here   So which one should I be choosing... When deciding between sleeves or no sleeves for your baby or toddler's sleeping bag, consider factors such as your child's sleep habits, the climate of your environment, and the season. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:  Climate and Temperature: Take into account the temperature of your child's sleeping environment. If it tends to be cooler or if you're transitioning into colder seasons, sleeves may offer added warmth. In warmer climates or during the summer months, no sleeves may be more suitable to prevent overheating. Sleeping Habits: Observe how your child sleeps and moves during the night. If they tend to wiggle and roll around a lot, a sleeping bag without sleeves may provide greater comfort and freedom of movement. However, if your little one prefers feeling snug and secure, sleeves could be the better option.  Comfort and Safety: Above all, prioritise your child's comfort and safety. Ensure that the sleeping bag fits properly and is made from breathable materials to prevent overheating. Avoid loose bedding or blankets inside the sleeping bag to reduce the risk of suffocation.   We have popped our temperature guide down below to help guide you to the right styled sleeping bag for your little one! Shop our entire range of sleeping bags here, don't just stop their complete an entire nursery look with our super soft jersey cotton cot sheets. Make bedtime a breeze with Anchor and Arrow.

A common question that gets asked alot amongst parents is... How do i know if my babies sleeping bag needs to have sleeves or no sleeves? Well good news we have your solution.   Continue reading to find out what we recommend and use with our little ones of a night time... When it comes to ensuring your little one gets a good night's sleep, every parent wants to make the best choices. One decision that often arises is whether to opt for a sleeping bag with sleeves or without sleeves for your baby or toddler. Both options have their benefits, and understanding them can help you make the right choice for your child's comfort and safety. Sleeping Bags with sleeves: Snug and Secure  Sleeping bags with sleeves offer a cocoon-like experience for your little one. They provide full coverage, ensuring that your baby's arms are also kept warm throughout the night. This can be particularly beneficial during colder seasons or in cooler climates, providing an extra layer of insulation.   For babies who tend to move around a lot during sleep, sleeves can help keep them snug and secure. They prevent little arms from slipping out of the bag, reducing the risk of your child getting tangled or uncovered during the night.   Additionally, sleeves can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort, mimicking the feeling of being wrapped up in a blanket or held close, which can help soothe restless sleepers. Shop Winter Sleeping Bags here No Sleeves: Freedom of Movement  On the other hand, sleeping bags without sleeves provide greater freedom of movement for your little one. Toddlers who are more active during sleep or prefer to have their arms free may find these options more comfortable. Without the restriction of sleeves, toddlers can move and adjust more easily within their sleeping bag, allowing them to find their preferred sleeping position without feeling confined. Sleeping bags without sleeves are also ideal for warmer climates or seasons when extra layers may be unnecessary and could cause overheating. Our sleep basics rompers make the best base layer to pop under your little ones sleeping bag. Shop Sleeveless Sleeping Bags here   So which one should I be choosing... When deciding between sleeves or no sleeves for your baby or toddler's sleeping bag, consider factors such as your child's sleep habits, the climate of your environment, and the season. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:  Climate and Temperature: Take into account the temperature of your child's sleeping environment. If it tends to be cooler or if you're transitioning into colder seasons, sleeves may offer added warmth. In warmer climates or during the summer months, no sleeves may be more suitable to prevent overheating. Sleeping Habits: Observe how your child sleeps and moves during the night. If they tend to wiggle and roll around a lot, a sleeping bag without sleeves may provide greater comfort and freedom of movement. However, if your little one prefers feeling snug and secure, sleeves could be the better option.  Comfort and Safety: Above all, prioritise your child's comfort and safety. Ensure that the sleeping bag fits properly and is made from breathable materials to prevent overheating. Avoid loose bedding or blankets inside the sleeping bag to reduce the risk of suffocation.   We have popped our temperature guide down below to help guide you to the right styled sleeping bag for your little one! Shop our entire range of sleeping bags here, don't just stop their complete an entire nursery look with our super soft jersey cotton cot sheets. Make bedtime a breeze with Anchor and Arrow.

A question many parents are faced with. It's a tricky one with numerous decisions about what's best for your child, the environment and more importantly what works best for you as a parent. The debate around diapering is mostly contentious around reusable vs disposable nappies; with disposable diapers having been a staple for decades, reusable nappies are gaining popularity for their environmental and economic benefits.  The Environmental Impact Reusable cloth nappies are the eco-friendly option, significantly reducing your environmental footprint, with the product being used hundreds of times before they wear out and can be passed down to younger siblings or other families, further reducing waste. With modern washing machines and efficient detergents, the water and energy used for laundering cloth diapers have become more eco-efficient over the years. With all that being said, sometimes convenience is all you need in you routine with Disposable diapers being undeniably easy to put on and dispose of, making them an attractive option for busy parents. They do come at a high environmental cost. Producing them consumes large quantities of wood pulp, plastic, and water, contributing to deforestation and water pollution. After use, disposable diapers end up in landfills, where they sit for hundreds of years, releasing harmful chemicals and greenhouse gasses into the environment. Choosing disposable diapers means contributing to a never-ending cycle of waste generation.   Cost Considerations While the upfront cost of reusable cloth nappies may seem higher, they can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. Once you've invested in a set of reusable nappies, you can use them for multiple children or resell them. Additionally, the cost of washing cloth diapers is generally lower than buying disposable diapers over time, especially when considering the ongoing expense of disposables.With disposable nappies coming with a continuous financial burden. You'll find yourself buying them week after week, and the costs add up over the months and years. It's essential to consider the long-term financial impact of disposable diapers when making your decision. Performance  Modern reusable nappies have come a long way in terms of design and functionality with easy functions featuring  easy-to-use snaps or hook-and-loop closures, as can be seen in Anchor & Arrows well versed swim nappies which prevent leaks and make nappy changes hassle-free. With disposables being undeniably convenient they do pose questions with some parents finding that disposable diapers may be more prone to leaks and blowouts compared to their reusable counterparts.   In conclusion choosing between reusable nappies and disposable diapers ultimately depends on your family's priorities and values. Reusable nappies offer a sustainable, cost-effective, and increasingly convenient diapering option, while disposable diapers provide immediate convenience but contribute significantly to environmental issues and long-term expenses. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your lifestyle, and make the choice that aligns best with your family's needs and values. Remember that both options have their merits, and what matters most is ensuring your baby stays comfortable and happy.           Thank you so much for joining us and taking your time to read our blog post!    The Anchor and Arrow team xx  

Choosing the perfect baby shower gift can be a delightful yet challenging task. You want to offer something both thoughtful and practical, something that will stand out and make a lasting impression. Enter our store Anchor and Arrow—a brand that offers not just sleepwear but a bundle of comfort, style, and eco-consciousness ⭐️ Unmatched Comfort for Little OnesOur store places comfort at the forefront of their sleepwear designs. Crafted from soft and breathable cotton, our sleepwear ensures that the baby can rest peacefully, providing cozy warmth without overheating. Every seam and stitch is carefully considered to eliminate discomfort, making it perfect for a baby's sensitive skin.     Adorable and Timeless DesignsThere's something undeniably charming about dressing a baby in adorable sleepwear. We understand this sentiment well, offering an array of timeless and stylish designs, hand painted from local Northern Beaches artists - in some of the names of Leah Marks. From whimsical patterns to native flora and animal motifs, our sleepwear turns bedtime into a delightful fashion show. These designs evoke a sense of nostalgia, making them not only perfect for the present but also for capturing cherished moments in illustrations.  Eco-Friendly and SustainableIn an era where sustainability matters more than ever, our commitment to using eco-friendly and sustainable materials such as bamboo cotton, so you're not only contributing to the baby's comfort but also supporting responsible choices for the planet's future.       Thank you so much for joining us and taking your time to read our blog post!    The Anchor and Arrow team xx  

We have compiled a list of the essential items to pack in your hospital bag for you and bub. The more organised you are, the more relaxed you will feel in the lead up to the birth and should make your birthing experience more comfortable. This list has been compiled by mums so we know what we are talking about xx