How to Swaddle Your Baby in 6 Easy Steps

Becoming a parent can be overwhelming at times, like when you need to master swaddling. This technique soothes babies because it mimics the cozy environment of the womb. But at times, when you just can’t get it right – it feels far from soothing. 

This article delves into everything about this technique! You can expect to learn the idea behind swaddling, its history, why it’s important, safety tips, step-by-step instructions, and more – all right here. Let’s jump in and get your baby swaddled!

What is Swaddling?

Swaddling is the act of wrapping a baby in a blanket or fabric to restrict movement. The sense of security babies feel promotes calmness and restful sleep. Swaddling can be dated back to the Paleolithic period, which means that it has been practiced for centuries [Wikipedia]. But it was originally used to restrict the movement of little ones and not to promote calmness. Strange how times have changed! 

Parents stopped wrapping these babies in the 17th century, but it has recently gained some popularity for reducing the chances of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). However, two studies have raised some concerns regarding swaddling and SIDS. Research by Ponsonby et al. revealed that swaddling a baby and positioning them on their stomach significantly increases the chances of SIDS [ISPID]. The study explains that their arm movements are restricted, making it harder for them to breathe. They are also likely to breathe in exhaled air, leading to a lack of oxygen and a build-up of carbon dioxide. For these reasons, experts recommend that swaddled babies should be turned on their backs. 

Benefits of Swaddling a Newborn

Swaddling has many benefits. Not only can this practice encourage longer and deeper sleep for babies, but it can also provide parents with some much-needed sleep. Here is something you might not know: parents can lose up to 133 night’s worth of sleep in their first year [Snuz]. 

Sleep is incredibly important for parents. It helps these caretakers better care for their newborn and contribute to a harmonious household. 

Here are some more reasons parents opt for swaddling:

Soothing Fussy Infants

One in five babies is fussy, and some are for no apparent reason [Southwest Human Development]. This can be challenging for parents, especially when they are unsure of how to comfort their little ones. However, swaddling can provide the snug feeling of the womb, which has been shown to soothe the most restless babies. 

The snugness and warmth of swaddling mimic the womb’s condition, which promotes calmness. This practice not only reduces fussiness but also prevents overstimulation. 

But here’s the thing: sometimes swaddling isn’t the answer. This is especially true when babies have colic or have other issues. 

Preventing Startle Reflex

One of the most common sleep disturbances in newborns is a “startle reflex.” It’s a natural response that babies have when they feel like they are falling, experiencing sudden movement, or hearing a noise. Their arms and legs fling outwards, startling them and disrupting their sleep. Swaddling can reduce these sudden movements. This is because their arms are wrapped, which prevents the action from keeping them awake.

Minimizing these disruptions can be beneficial for their growth. When they sleep, a hormone called HGH (human growth hormone) is produced, helping them to develop and grow. 

Bonding

Although swaddling is a great way to soothe fussy babies, this practice can also strengthen the parent-child bond. The act involves gentle and intentional movements that mimic the comforting touch of a caregiver, which can foster a sense of trust and security!

Swaddling can also become a cherished activity in a baby’s bedtime or naptime routine. For working or busy parents, it can provide an opportunity to connect with their baby. 

Safety Tips for Swaddling

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Before learning how to swaddle, there are important safety tips to keep in mind. 

They are:

When to Start and When to Stop

Parents can start swaddling their babies as soon as they are born but should stop once the baby shows signs of rolling over, typically around 2 to 4 months. Babies may not be able to roll back onto their backs, which greatly increases the risk of SIDS.

Safety First

The baby’s head shouldn’t be covered, and the hips should be able to move freely to prevent hip dysplasia. Safety should always be a first priority, despite wanting to calm your baby. Overheating checks are just as crucial as checking for excessive warmth. 

Recognizing Signs

One way that parents can understand when it’s time to top is by recognizing the signs. As babies grow, they start showing signs that indicate it’s time to transition. 

Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

• Baby constantly breaks out of the swaddle.
• Baby begins to roll over.
• Baby is frustrated or restless, specifically when swaddled.
• Discomfort or overheating.
• Baby starts sucking on their fingers or hands.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Swaddle Your Baby Like a Pro

Knowing how to swaddle a newborn is essential for comfort and safety reasons. This section narrows it down to just 6 easy steps. Take a look below!

Swaddle Steps

• Step 1: Choose the right swaddle blanket. It should be breathable, soft, and the right size. Materials like cotton or muslin are great options.
• Step 2: Lay the blanket flat in a diamond shape. The top corner should be pointing upwards.
• Step 3: Position the baby on the blanket with their shoulders just below the top fold.
• Step 4: Wrap the first side over the baby’s arm and tuck it snugly. The swaddle should be secured but not too tight.
• Step 5: Fold the bottom corner up over the baby’s feet. This keeps them warm and cozy.
• Step 6: Wrap the other side of the blanket over and tuck your baby’s body securely. Make sure that the baby’s arms are close to the body.

Types of Swaddle Techniques

There are several different types of swaddling techniques that you can try. However, the swaddling method should be tailored to your baby’s temperament and comfort. While some enjoy being tightly wrapped, others might prefer more movement. 

The best swaddling technique for newborns include the following:

1. Traditional Swaddle: This swaddle involves using a rectangular blanket, usually made of cotton or muslin, to wrap your baby. You fold the blanket into a triangle, place the baby in the middle, and then simply wrap the fabric around the baby’s body and tuck it under. This technique provides a secure and tight swaddle that mimics a womb-like environment. 
2. Sleep Sacks: Think of these items as wearable blankets! They are specially designed garments that are safe and secure for swaddling. They zip up and fit snugly around the arms and chest, but the legs have more room to move. Sleep sacks are considered the safer alternative to traditional blankets – they reduce the risk of suffocation and overheating. 
3. Arms-Up vs. Arms-Down: Some babies prefer their arms up, while others feel more comfortable when their arms are down. The arms-up technique gives babies more room to move, which can prevent frustration. On the other hand, arms-down is often recommended for babies who get started easily (startle reflex).
4. Hip-Healthy Swaddle (Double Swaddle): The baby gets wrapped around the torse, but there’s room for their hips to move freely. This technique is often used when babies are at risk of hip dysplasia. Parents can use blankets or specifically designed sleep sacks for the hip-healthy swaddle. 
5. One-Arm-Out: Just like some babies prefer having their arms move freely, some like their one arm out. It allows them to enjoy the calming effects of swaddling while having an arm available for self-soothing. This technique is great when your baby starts rolling over because they can roll back easily. 
6. Burrito Swaddle: This technique is similar to the traditional swaddle, but the wrapping is done more snugly – like a burrito. It has been shown to help babies who have a strong startle reflex. But even with the burrito style, there is still something like “too tight.” So, make sure that their hips aren’t wrapped too tight, as it can cause developmental issues. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Swaddling

• While the swaddle should be snug, it should not be restricted. Parents can check this by placing two fingers between the swaddle and their baby’s chest. There should be enough space. 
• Your baby’s face should never be covered to avoid suffocation risks.
• The wrong type of blanket can cause overheating, so make sure it’s breathable.
• Although winter can be cold, don’t overlayer, as this can cause your baby health issues. Babies should also be dressed in light layers under the swaddle. 

Conclusion: Is a Swaddled Baby Beneficial?

Swaddling is more than just an age-old tradition – it’s a valuable tool for babies and parents. The first few months after having a newborn can be quite the challenge, but this technique has definitely saved parent’s sleep. Swaddling has many benefits, ranging from soothing fussiness to reducing startle reflexes! For parents, this can translate to much-needed rest, which will help them take better care of their little ones. 

However, as with anything baby-related, parents must pay extra attention to safety. It is crucial to ensure the baby is on its back while wrapped, use breathable material, and monitor it. Parents also need to be on the lookout for when to stop swaddling. This is important because as babies grow, their developmental needs evolve. 

Ready to embrace the benefits of swaddling? Start trying out the techniques that suit your baby best, and remember to prioritize their safety every step of the way. A well-rested baby means a well-rested you!