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Swaddling Baby

Benefits of Swaddling Your Newborn: What You Need to Know

While going through my past blog posts, I was stunned that I had not yet written about a topic I am very passionate about: Swaddling! In this post, I will cover the benefits of swaddling your newborn, why it is a game changer, how it helps babies sleep better, the science behind better sleep, and safety guidelines. I will also cover when and how to transition from a swaddle, popular swaddles, and my fave.

Why Swaddling Your Newborn is a Game Changer

Swaddling a newborn has been a time-honored practice for generations, and for a good reason. By wrapping your newborn snugly in a swaddle, you’re mimicking the comfort and security of the womb. This is the environment they are used to. All of their needs have been met in utero for nine months. They are born into our big world where they must communicate their needs to us, which is a considerable change for them.

While in the womb, your baby was curled up in the fetal position, feeling very secure. Swaddling your newborn helps soothe your baby and reduce fussiness, mimicking their feelings in utero. This can be particularly beneficial during the first few months as your baby acclimates to the fourth trimester, no longer in utero.

Swaddling can also benefit a baby with colic and prevent the startle reflex, where your baby’s movements wake them up. This can lead to more extended and restful sleep periods for your baby and you! 🙂

“My Baby Hates the Swaddle”

Many parents tell me their baby “hates the swaddle.” I can see why parents think this. When going through the swaddling process, many babies fight with all their might and cry (or scream) in protest. I have found that distracting them through the process or immediately after helps. This can be done by giving them a pacifier, if they will accept it, and having white noise on. Once the swaddle is on, if you pick them up and snuggle, jiggle (gently), or rock them, they typically will relax. I have heard many babies give off a sigh of relief once swaddled. I love hearing that sigh!

If swaddling is done consistently from day 1, most babies don’t put up a fight. Once it becomes part of the routine, babies usually enjoy their swaddle.

The Science Behind Better Sleep: Swaddling and Your Baby

Research has shown that swaddled babies sleep more soundly and for longer durations. The snug fit of a swaddle can provide a sense of safety and security, reducing anxiety and helping your baby settle more quickly. Swaddling your newborn also prevents their startle reflex from waking them. When they startle, their arms and legs flail out, giving them the sensation of falling. I have had this happen to me occasionally, and it causes me to feel insecure for a moment. Imagine how it feels for a baby that doesn’t understand what is happening.

Furthermore, consistent swaddling can help establish a sleep routine, signaling to your baby that it is time to rest. This can be particularly useful for new parents who are developing a predictable sleep schedule.

Safety First: Guidelines for Swaddling Your Newborn

While there are many swaddling benefits, it’s crucial to do it safely to avoid risks. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, as this position is safest for reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

When done correctly, The American Academy of Pediatrics says swaddling is safe. To prevent hip dysplasia, ensure the swaddle is snug but not tight around the baby’s hips and legs. It Is essential to ensure that the top of the swaddle does not go past the top of the baby’s shoulders. If the swaddle is positioned slightly too high, it could ride up, covering their mouth, and they wouldn’t be able to breathe well. The key to getting the swaddle to stay on properly is to ensure your baby’s arms are secured by their sides. Otherwise, your little nugget will work hard to get out of it.

We used to swaddle babies in regular baby blankets or receiving blankets. These blankets are no longer considered safe because they could come unwrapped and loose. Many hospitals still use small receiving blankets, probably due to the cost. Fortunately, there are hundreds of swaddle sacks to choose from. I will talk about some of these a bit later.

Ensure the swaddle blanket is not too loose, as loose fabric can pose a risk of suffocation. Avoid swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling over, as this can increase the risk of suffocation if they roll onto their stomach while swaddled.

Top Swaddles to Consider for Your Newborn

Many swaddle options are available, each with unique features to suit different needs. Some of the most popular include the Halo SleepSack Swaddle, which offers adjustable Velcro for a secure fit—but the Velcro on this is loud! I also find there is a lot of fabric on this swaddle.

The SwaddleMe Original Swaddle is known for its soft fabric and easy-to-use design. This works best as a first swaddle. After that, I found that their arms didn’t stay put very well. These are less expensive than some other swaddles.

Another favorite is the Love to Dream Swaddle UP, which allows your baby to sleep with their arms in a more natural position. This one may also be used when transitioning your baby from a swaddle.

The Aden + Anais Classic Swaddle is highly recommended for its breathable muslin fabric and versatility. I have found that swaddles made of muslin tend to loosen quickly. The fabric is not stretchy and doesn’t stay on very well.

My Favorite Swaddle

My current personal favorite swaddle is the Sweetpea 5-second swaddle. Dr. Harvey Karp came up with this swaddle. He first used a similar swaddle for the SNOO bassinet. The Velcro on it isn’t as loud as some other swaddles. It offers the feature of putting one or both arms out during the transition. This allows you to use it as a sack until your baby outgrows it. The key to securely putting your baby in this is to ensure that the fabric that wraps around each arm is placed right at their wrist and that you velcro it so they are firmly snuggled in. Otherwise, they will wriggle around, trying to get their arms out instead of sleeping. Another reason I love this swaddle is because many of them come with a “mesh-like” area. This allows for better airflow if the weather is warm.

Another favorite swaddle of mine is the Miracle Blanket Swaddle. If you have a baby that gets out of every swaddle you try, this is the one that may keep your little escape artist swaddled all night. I’ll admit that their eyes widened when I introduced this swaddle to parents. It is very unique.

When and How to Transition Out of Swaddling

Most experts recommend transitioning out of swaddling when your baby is around 2 to 4 months old. As I mentioned above, swaddling should be discontinued as soon as your baby shows signs of rolling over. Transitioning your little one isn’t always easy. Some babies love the secure feeling of the swaddle and don’t want to give it up.

One way to transition is to swaddle with one of their arms out for a few nights. Once your baby adjusts to one arm out, move onto both arms out, but keep the swaddle around their torso so they still feel secure. Moving in stages like this should help your baby with the transition.

Another method is to use a transitional sleep sack like the Zipadee-Zip Swaddle or the Love to Dream Swaddle Up. These swaddles allow for more movement while still providing some of the snugness of a traditional swaddle.

I have always been intrigued by Baby Merlin’s Magic Sleepsuit. Some parents find this is the only way to get their baby to accept the transitioning process. If you use the Merlin suit, ensure the room is not too warm.

Pay attention to your baby’s cues and readiness to transition out of swaddling. Each baby is different and may require more or less time to adjust.

In Summary

You now have all the information you need on swaddling. I am a huge fan of swaddling, and I admit that I don’t always know where to begin to soothe a young baby who is not swaddled. A swaddle is always the first thing I reach for when a baby needs help calming down. I hope that if you have not tried swaddling your young baby, you will now give it a try.

If you would like additional help with getting your baby to sleep better or need any help understanding your newborn’s needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me: https://suesweetdreamsbaby.com/contact

October 3, 2024

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