Swaddling Your Baby

Wrapping or bundling a baby securely in fabric or a blanket is called swaddling and there are many benefits to swaddling. A baby is not able to regulate its temperature until they are a few days old so snug swaddling helps keep them warm during this time. During the first month babies are easily startled by their own movement so tightly swaddling keeps baby’s flailing arms and legs from startling and upsetting them. Swaddling is calming and helps settle your baby down if it is over stimulated by making it feel safe and secure like in the womb. When you swaddle your baby there is also the added benefit of keeping loose blankets and quilts out of the crib so there is a reduced risk of SIDS and suffocation. After the first month a baby’s startle reflex is usually under control and you want to limit swaddling to nap and bed time only. Using it during sleep time is comforting for your baby, but if a baby is swaddled all day after the first month, limiting their range of motion may interfere with mobility and development.

If you asked a room full of parents what material or type of swaddler they prefer for swaddling you will hear many different answers. The reason for this is that because the age, size, activity level, and personal preference of your baby will determine what works best for you and your baby. Many parents find that receiving blankets work well for swaddling the baby the first month when the baby doesn’t move too much, but once the baby is larger and more active, they are able to more securely swaddle their baby with a larger, stretchy swaddle blanket or swaddle cozy. Depending on the temperature of your house and the clothes your baby has on when swaddled, you may choose a lighter weight knit fabric or something warmer like fleece. Just make sure you are not using too heavy of a fabric or baby may get overheated.