Quick answer

Put the Cocoon Swaddle 1.0 TOG on first with arms in or out as your baby needs, then add the Butterfly Cardi over the top when you want extra warmth or a gentle step toward arms-out sleep. Always check the neck and arm openings for a snug, safe fit.

Why layer the Butterfly Cardi over the Cocoon Swaddle?

The Butterfly Cardi adds a light layer of warmth without a full sleep bag change, and it can help babies who are transitioning from arm-up swaddling to arms-out sleep by offering a familiar, cosy feel over the swaddle. Because the Cardi is separate, you can add or remove it as room temperature shifts, rather than swapping the whole swaddle.

Keep in mind that the 1.0 TOG swaddle is designed for moderate room temperatures; the Cardi is not a substitute for a higher-TOG sleep bag in colder rooms. If your baby is ready for arms-out sleep, the Cardi can be worn over the swaddle with the swaddle's arms out, giving a gentle transition.

When the layering approach may not suit you

If your baby runs warm or the room is already at the upper end of the 1.0 TOG comfort range, adding the Cardi may cause overheating. In that case, use the swaddle alone or choose a lighter layer. Also, if your baby is not yet showing signs of rolling, always place them on their back and avoid adding loose layers that could cover the face.

The Butterfly Cardi is not a swaddle itself; it does not restrict arm movement. If your baby still needs tight arm containment for sleep, use the swaddle with arms in and skip the Cardi until they are ready for more freedom.

Step-by-step layering instructions

  1. Check the room temperature and your baby's cues: Use a room thermometer to confirm the room is within the 1.0 TOG comfort range. Feel your baby's chest or back—not hands or feet—to judge warmth. If the chest feels hot or sweaty, remove the Cardi. A common mistake is overdressing because the hands feel cool; hands often run cooler than the core.
  2. Put on the Cocoon Swaddle 1.0 TOG: Lay the swaddle flat, place your baby on their back inside, and fasten the arm openings according to your baby's stage: arms in for full swaddling, or arms out if they are rolling or prefer freedom. Zip or fasten the swaddle securely. Checkpoint: ensure the swaddle is snug around the chest but allows room for hip movement—you should be able to fit two fingers between the fabric and your baby's chest.
  3. Add the Butterfly Cardi over the swaddle: Slide the Cardi over your baby's arms and head, then fasten it at the front. Make sure the Cardi sits smoothly over the swaddle without bunching, and that the neck opening is not too tight or too loose. Common mistake: putting the Cardi on before the swaddle—always layer the swaddle first, then the Cardi on top.
  4. Do a final fit and safety check: Lay your baby flat on their back. Check that the Cardi's arm openings are snug enough that the fabric cannot ride up over the face, and that the swaddle's leg openings allow free hip movement. Remove the Cardi if the room warms up or your baby seems flushed or sweaty. Checkpoint: always place your baby to sleep on their back, and stop using the swaddle once your baby shows signs of rolling.

Product facts