Swaddling our babies can feel confusing. There is a lot of talk online about why it is the best thing ever, or how it can be dangerous. What should you believe? How, when, and why should you swaddle? Saying that this topic is overwhelming is an understatement. By following a few simple guidelines, you can take the confusion out of swaddling and make the best decision for your family and your baby.
1. How to Swaddle–
Alright, let’s talk about how to use swaddles! We all want our babies to be snug as a bug in a rug, right? Sure! But let’s make sure we’re doing it safely and effectively.
Swaddle blankets are adorable and versatile, but they’re often not the best choice for swaddling in real life! They can easily come loose and pose a safety hazard if done incorrectly. So instead, opt for a swaddle with velcro, snaps, or a zipper to keep it securely in place. You can use those cute blankets for playtime or as a cover in the car seat, instead.
Make sure your swaddle fits snugly through the arms and torso, but leave some room for the legs and hips to move freely. Your little one should be able to bend and stretch their legs while swaddled. This helps to protect from hip dysplasia! It’s totally fine to swaddle babies with their arms down by their sides, or crossed on the chest. You can also choose one that allows their hands to be by their face. Just avoid any swaddles that are weighted, or restrict your baby’s leg movement. If you have questions about how to swaddle properly, your postpartum doula or Newborn Care Education Class can help!
A properly used swaddle is a safe tool. Just remember – safety first, cuteness second! For our favorite baby gear recommendations, including swaddles, check out our free download (link to pdf download).
2. When Should You?
Swaddling is a great technique to help babies calm down if overstimulated, and help them sleep. It is one of the 5 S’s from Dr. Karp’s popular method for infant soothing. When your baby is fussy and difficult to calm, give a swaddle a try!
If you do choose to swaddle, we believe in swaddling for all sleep – whether it’s for naps or overnight. Consistency can help our little ones regulate and establish positive sleep routines and associations.
However, we also want to make sure the baby has plenty of time without the swaddle during playtime and feeding time. Baby needs time and space to explore their body, move and experience their surroundings. We recommend swaddling up until week 12, OR until they start rolling over (whichever comes first). After week 12, it’s important to start transitioning your baby out of the swaddle and into a safe sleep sack. This will help them develop their motor skills and adjust to sleeping without being swaddled. Remember – even after the 12 week mark, we do not want any free blankets or stuffies in the bassinet or crib, so after transition out of the swaddle a sleep sack is the safest choice.
3. Why Swaddle?
Swaddling is a simple and effective way to soothe and comfort a newborn. The feeling of being tightly wrapped mimics the tightness of the womb, giving them a sense of familiarity and security. And with the added pressure, it releases serotonin in their brain, making them feel relaxed and loved. Plus, swaddling helps reduce the Moro startle reflex, preventing babies from accidentally waking themselves up. It’s no wonder why swaddling has been used for centuries and continues to be a go-to method for parents to help their little ones feel calm and content. Just be sure your baby is dressed appropriately and the swaddle is the correct weight for your climate so that your baby stays comfortably warm.
Remember, every baby is different, so if swaddling doesn’t work for your little one, that’s okay too! You do not have to swaddle. You can try safe alternatives to traditional swaddles, or forego them altogether. Just find what works best for you and your baby, and enjoy those precious moments of snuggles and sleep. Check out our advice on methods for transitioning your baby out of their swaddle!
