No Sweat Baby Gear

Swaddling FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Swaddling Techniques and Blankets

Swaddling is one of those things that many people have heard of but may not know much about.  But new parents often take note of good swaddling techniques when they see a delivery room nurse bundle their baby up for the first time.

And today we find that parents are working harder to become better educated about how to soothe and comfort their children – an interest which leads many parents to look into swaddling.  So with that in mind we offer a variety of frequently asked questions about swaddling techniques and blankets:

What are the benefits of swaddle blankets compared to a “baby blanket”?

Swaddle blankets are made of lightweight fabric like cotton muslin which is great for helping to regulate an infant’s body temperature in contrast to thicker baby blankets on the market.  Since cotton muslin uses a smaller weave pattern, it also allows for a better stretch of the fabric to get that extra secure swaddle.  Swaddle blankets are also often oversized – meaning that there is a lot of extra fabric to allow you to properly wrap up your baby.

Can swaddling cause my baby to overheat?

This is definitely a concern and the reason that you should look for a swaddle blanket made of lightweight, breathable fabric.  This helps regulate temperature and prevents your baby from overheating.    You should also be mindful that thermostat temperatures are not too high and that your baby does not have too many layers on, feel warm to the touch or start to perspire.

How will swaddling benefit my baby?

Pediatric research compares swaddling to recreating the familiar and comfortable environment of the womb.  As some babies take longer to adjust to their new world, swaddling might provide the comfort they require to make an easier transition.

Studies suggest and many parents agree that swaddling helps babies sleep better. Being snuggly tucked in prevents startling limb movements that cause them to awaken frequently.  Providing the familiar snug and warm environment for the first few months might help reduce fussiness.

Can I leave my babies arms free while swaddling?

Most swaddling experts encourage tucking both arms in to avoid twitching and facial scratches from those sharp tiny nails.  However, leaving one arm free might make your baby more comfortable. The hand-to-mouth reflex is a natural one that your baby is used to.  You can leave both arms free, but it defeats the purpose and might mean that it is time to stop swaddling.

When will my baby outgrow swaddling?

Swaddling is usually recommended up to four months but depends largely on your baby’s needs. Some babies show readiness to stop as early as two months while some continue even after four. Your baby will let you know when he/she is ready to stop. However as your baby moves his/her limbs more and can struggle free or turn over on his/her own, swaddling might lead to issues of loose coverings getting in the way causing entangling and suffocation.

Will swaddling confine my baby?

Appropriate swaddling calls for snug tucking and not wrapping too tight or too loose. Swaddling keeps your baby secure like he/she was in your womb without restraining total movement. It avoids the awkward reflexes of little limbs that are not in control, which usually startles them into awakening. Stop swaddling if your baby sleeps well enough without it or shows signs of discomfort.

About the Author

Andre’ Savoie writes for Luna Lullaby, maker of the award winning Soothing Swaddle Blanket. Visit our website to watch swaddling demonstration videos or to shop swaddle blankets online.

Bumkins Finer Baby Products NRB2-233 Unbleached Cotton Swaddle Blanket 2 PK Sage The Organic Cotton Swaddle Blanket 2 Pack is made of unbleached 100% cotton flannel has an unmatched quality and comfort. Each package includes two blankets with different coordinating trims. Measures 30″ x 30″….

aden + anais Terry Hooded Towel and Muslin Washcloth Set …

The Happiest Baby on the Block DVD + CD COMBO By Dr. Harvey Karp The New Way to Calm Crying, and Help Your Baby Sleep Longer + Super Soothing Calming Sounds CD With 5 great sounds! $29.99 Do you learn better by watching rather than reading? Here is a chance to see how to transport your baby from screaming into serenity…in minutes. Watch as, step-by-step, Dr. Karp teaches new parent how to switch on their baby’s powerful calming reflex. English and Spanish In “The Happiest Baby” Dr. Karp reveals a treasure sought by new parents for centuries… the “calming reflex” (the automatic …

aden + anais Towel with Muslin Washcloth Set …

L’ovedbaby Swaddling Blanket 111p Color: Think Pink Pictured in Think Pink Features: -Available in several colors. -Material: Soft cotton. -Great stretchability (up to 45″). -Easy swaddling. -Embroidered in 2 neutral colors. -Delivers an extra touch of style….

Luvable Friends 4-Pack Flannel Receiving Blankets …

Kicky Pants Baby-girls Newborn Print Swaddling Blanket Set Our three pack of single ply swaddling blankets are a great gift for baby! the super soft and stretchy nature of the fabric makes these blankets excellent for swaddling…

Sozo Baby-boys Newborn Puppy Swaddle Blanket and Cap Set, Brown, One Size $17.99 Multi-use blanket perfect for swaddling, the stroller, as a receiving blanket and more! 100% Premium Cotton. Fabric stretches for easy swaddling. Blanket measures 40″ x 40″. One size fits all babies. Cap fits 0-6 months. Instructions included….

SwaddleDesigns Organic Cotton Baby Lovie – Kiwi Mod Circles on Ivory $15.22 SD-070KW Color: Kiwi Features: -Organic Cotton Baby Lovie offers wonderful textures that little fingers love to explore.-Experts recommend giving a child, six months and older, a security object. Ours is perfectly sized for little fingers at 14 by 14 inches..-100pct Certified Organic Cotton Flannel Mod Circle Back and Border with Eco Fleece (80pct certified organic cotton and 20pct recycled polyes…

Trend Lab Plush with Blanket Gift Set, Hippo $18.18 21613 Features: -Blanket.-Hippo buddy gift set.-Sage fleece blanket is trimmed with a cotton percale zoo animal scatter print.-Hippo plush animal is made from soft velour and embellished with embroidery.-Gray velour body with dark gray, blue, black, and white embroidery, embroidered Chibi name (Kaba) under right hind foot. Collection: -Chibi collection….