Swaddling is the age-old practice of wrapping your baby in a blanket or cloth to keep them still and help them feel safe and secure in bed. Because let’s face it, your little one has been squished into a nice cosy womb for the past nine months, so the big wide world with all that space around them can be a bit daunting!
As well as helping your baby feel safe and snuggly, swaddling also keeps your little one’s arms and legs still to prevent the ‘startle reflex’ which can wake them up when they’re sleeping.
Swaddles are also super handy as they can double as a light blanket for baby when you’re out and about visiting family and friends.
There are a number of different kinds of swaddles and baby wraps on the market, but there are three key considerations to keep in mind when you’re choosing a swaddle for your baby:
1. Fabric
Look for a light-weight, breathable fabric like 100% Cotton, Bamboo Cotton or Cotton Elastane. These options are great for all seasons, as they’re breathable in warm temperatures and warm enough for those cooler nights.
2. Size
Look for a large size (at least 700mm x 1000mm) that will grow with your little one. Remember though that once baby starts to roll in bed (usually between 4-6 months), it’s time to stop swaddling them, as they will need to have their arms free in line with Safe sleeping guidelines.
3. Elasticity
Look for a fabric that has a bit of elasticity, but is also soft and breathable. You need a bit of stretch in order to wrap baby’s arms securely, because materials with no stretch at all (like muslin) may feel nice, they just don't do a great job of wrapping babies securely, and they tend to start to wriggle out of them as they grow.
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Use good swaddle clothes for swaddling.
