Swaddling your baby helps keep them warm and promotes better sleep. Let’s explore 7 ways to swaddle your baby for a good night’s sleep, as shared in this article!
Benefits of Swaddling Your Baby
It may seem simple, but swaddling your baby, especially newborns, has many unexpected benefits that even mothers may not know. Let’s take a look at the following benefits.
Keeping your baby warm
While in the womb, your baby’s body temperature is 0.5-1 degree Celsius higher than the mother’s. After birth, babies feel cold due to the sudden temperature difference between the outside environment and the womb. Swaddling helps keep your baby warm and prevents temperature shock.
Creates a sense of security and comfort
Throughout pregnancy, the mother’s womb is like a warm cocoon that envelops and protects the fetus. Exposure to the vast outside world can be unsettling for the baby.
Therefore, swaddling helps the baby feel safer and gradually adjust to the outside world.
Promotes deeper sleep and development
Generally, swaddled newborns sleep better than those who are not swaddled.
This is because swaddling prevents startling, flailing, or scratching their faces, leading to deeper, more restful sleep.
Makes it easier for mothers to hold their babies
First-time mothers may feel clumsy and awkward when holding their babies. Swaddling makes it easier to hold the baby without worrying about hurting them or scratching their delicate skin with fingernails or hard objects.
What material should be used for swaddling?
For safe and effective swaddling, the first thing mothers need to consider is the material of the swaddle.
Mothers should choose soft, thin, breathable muslin cloths made of 100% cotton or muslin. The material should also be stretchy for easier swaddling.
In addition, good absorbency is crucial because newborns have delicate skin. Avoid stiff fabrics that could irritate your baby’s skin.
When is the right time to swaddle your baby?
For safe and proper swaddling, mothers should follow these guidelines:
Start time: Full-body swaddling should be done for the first 2-3 months after birth. After that, swaddle only from the waist down to allow for easier movement and development.
End time: You can stop swaddling when your baby is 6 months old to allow for free movement.
Ways to swaddle your baby for better sleep
There are many ways to swaddle a baby. Here are some common and safe methods. Find the best one for your baby!
1. Mother’s arm swaddle
This swaddle creates a nest-like feeling, suitable for babies who don’t like the cocoon style. This allows the baby to lie on their side and may help prevent flat head syndrome.
Preparation: A rectangular newborn swaddle blanket approximately 120x60cm.
Instructions:
Step 1: Roll the blanket diagonally lengthwise to create a long roll.
Step 2: Position the baby on their right side and gently wrap the blanket from their feet to their head, wrapping one end under their neck and the other over their head. The blanket will wrap around the baby like a mother’s arms.
2. Cocoon swaddle for warmth in cold weather
With just a few simple steps and a blanket, you can create a warm cocoon for your baby.
Preparation: A square muslin swaddle blanket approximately 70x70cm.
Instructions:
Step 1: Lay the blanket on the bed in a diamond shape.
Step 2: Fold the top edge of the blanket down slightly and place the baby on it so that their neck and back are on the fold.
Step 3: Lay the baby’s right arm along their body, then lift their left arm and pull the right side of the blanket over their body.
Step 4: Pull the right end of the blanket up to the baby’s right shoulder.
Step 5: Lay the baby’s left arm on their stomach and wrap the remaining blanket around the baby, tucking the edge under their back to secure it.
3. Swaddling for outdoor outings
This method protects your baby’s skin from sunlight and dust, ideal for when you go out with your baby.
Preparation: A large square blanket to cover the baby’s entire body.
Instructions:
Step 1: Similar to the previous method, lay the blanket in a diamond shape and fold down one top corner. Place the baby on it.
Step 2: Lay the baby’s arms naturally along their body and fold the top of the blanket diagonally across their body to cover their shoulders and stomach. Tuck the excess fabric under their bottom to secure it.
Step 3: Repeat on the other side. Finally, wrap the bottom part of the blanket over the baby’s shoulders and around their back to complete the swaddle.
4. Ready-made swaddles for warmth
Ready-made swaddles save time and effort.
Preparation: A ready-made cotton or fleece swaddle depending on the weather.
Instructions:
Step 1: Lay the swaddle flat.
Step 2: Gently place the baby’s feet into the pre-sewn pouch, ensuring their arms lie comfortably along their sides.
Step 3: Fold both sides inward and secure with the pre-attached fasteners.
Ready-made swaddle blanket
5. Swaddling for breastfeeding
This type of swaddle provides privacy when breastfeeding in public.
Preparation: A breastfeeding cover
Instructions:
Step 1: Adjust the neck strap to ensure comfortable positioning and sufficient visibility for breastfeeding.
Step 2: Drape the cover around your neck and hold the baby in your usual breastfeeding position. Adjust the cover to completely cover the baby.
Swaddling for breastfeeding
6. Swaddling for bathing
This helps keep your baby warm and prevents skin irritation during bath time.
Preparation: A soft, baby-safe bath towel.
Instructions:
Step 1: Undress your baby and gently wrap the towel around them.
Step 2: Place the baby in the bath and unfold the towel section by section as you wash them. Always keep the other parts covered. Use a washcloth to gently cleanse each area, re-wrapping the towel after each section is washed.
Swaddling for bathing
7. Diaper swaddling (cross-diaper method)
Preparation: A soft, breathable cloth diaper.
Instructions:
Step 1: Lay the diaper flat and fold one corner down. Place the baby on it so their bottom is on the folded edge.
Step 2: Place the baby’s left arm along their body and begin wrapping the diaper from left to right, ensuring their body is covered. Tuck the excess fabric under their right side.
Step 3: Wrap the bottom edge of the diaper across the baby’s right leg and tuck it under their back, in the same location as Step 2.
Step 4: Repeat with the right side of the diaper and secure it under the baby’s left side.
Important notes on swaddling your baby
For safe swaddling, keep these important points in mind:
- Do not swaddle too tightly, restricting your baby’s movement. Swaddle loosely enough to allow for movement of their legs and hips. Do not cover the baby’s face or neck which can lead to suffocation.
- Do not swaddle when it is too hot, as this can lead to overheating. Choose breathable materials and use air conditioning to maintain a suitable temperature.
- Always position your baby on their back or side to ensure easy breathing. When swaddling in a cocoon, place your baby on their back.
- Do not swaddle if your baby is sleeping in bed with you. Restricted movement increases the risk of accidental suffocation. Only swaddle your baby when they are in a crib or bassinet.
- Keep your baby cool and comfortable when swaddled. Regularly check on them to ensure they are not overheating, sweating excessively, or having difficulty breathing.
