All About TOG Ratings + Our Patented, Moisture Wicking Fabric

2018-05-26

Photo by Jaebird Photography

We often get asked many questions about our patented, moisture wicking fabric and its unique properties, as well as what your amazing little ones should wear underneath their Ollie. Did you know that fabrics have TOG ratings that serve as guides to let you know how insulated a particular fabric is? This will help you when deciding how to dress your little one, as well as give you a better understanding of our fabric.

Please note this information is intended to be used as a guideline, but it is important to always remember each little one is unique and so are their needs. We always recommend conferring with your pediatrician to determine the ideal room temperature for your little one, since they are able to provide an in-person assessment. 

What does TOG stand for?

TOG stands for "thermal overall grade." It is essentially a measure of thermal resistance of a unit area, also known as thermal insulance. This shows how much of an area that a particular fabric insulates. The TOG rating determines thickness and therefore how warm it will keep your child. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the garment is. The decision for your TOG rating will also depend on the temperature that you keep your home and nursery. 

What TOG rating does the Ollie have, and what does that mean?

The Ollie has a tog rating of 0.8. This is on the "lighter" side when it comes to fabrics, which means that the Ollie is made from a single layer without padding. Because of this, it can be suitable in a wide variety of room temperatures depending on what your amazing little one is wearing underwear the Ollie.

What should my baby wear underneath the Ollie?

Many parents ask us what to pair with the Ollie – a short sleeved cotton onesie? Long sleeve pajamas? The TOG rating of 0.8 can be used as a guideline for parents to determine what to pair with their Ollie depending on the temperature they keep their home. For example, the Ollie could be paired with a short sleeve onesie in a home that is kept above 75 degrees F, or paired with light, long sleeve pajamas in a home that is kept around 70 degrees F. 
Have you ever noticed, too, that you might be super susceptible to certain temperature fluctuations, but your friend or partner isn't? For example, two people could be sitting in a 72 degree house; one is comfortable, while the other is freezing and bundles under a blanket. Your baby is the same! Some little ones tend to run hotter than others. Therefore, it is important to not only take the TOG rating into consideration, but also pair that rating with your baby's very unique and individual preferences. Some babies are comfortable in long sleeve pajamas with the Ollie at 70 degrees F, while others might need to be in just a diaper. Your baby's temperature preference can also fluctuate based on the time of day, too, so attire under the Ollie for nap time versus bedtime might look different. 
How can you tell the way your baby is feeling, temperature wise? Experts say that it's always a good idea to touch baby's skin – specifically their face, arms, and forehead – with your hand. You can feel whether or not your baby is running cooler or warmer this way. Observe your baby's behavior, too. If your baby is restless and waking more than normal, this could be a sign that he or she is uncomfortable. 
 
It is very important to note that even though the Ollie has a TOG rating of 0.8, each little one is their own very special individual. Each home, as well, is set at different temperatures and exists in different environments. The TOG rating should be used as a guide, but it is absolutely not a one-size-fits-all concept. 
As always, we are here for you! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at care@theollieworld.com.