If you'd like to try swaddling, you've come to the right place. We explain what hip-friendly swaddling is and how to fold the blanket around your baby.
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You've read all about the pros and cons of swaddling and you've decided to give it a go. But before you start, you'll want to make sure you know about safe sleeping and hip-healthy swaddling guidelines. Here's why.
Hip friendly swaddling is important because there might be a link between swaddling a baby's legs too tightly and an increased risk of hip dysplasia (van Sleuwen et al, ; NHS, ; International Hip Dysplasia institute, ). On the other hand, be careful not to swaddle your baby too loosely either because they could get tangled up in the loose cloth, which could overheat or suffocate them (Greviskes, ).
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is another important safety consideration. As you probably know, you should always put your baby to sleep on their back to lower the risk of SIDS (NHS, ). This might be particularly important for swaddled babies. Swaddled babies sleeping on their stomach or sides appear to be at increased risk of SIDS (Pease et al, ). Babies swaddled too loosely are also at increased risk of SIDS because they're more likely to roll over onto their stomach (Greviskes, ).
Timing is key too. Start swaddling when your little one is a newborn or soon after. Then as soon as your baby starts to learn to roll, you'll need to transition them away from swaddling (Irving, ).
See our seven safe and hip friendly swaddling tips for more details about safety.
You don't need a lot of equipment for swaddling ' you might already have something suitable. You can use:
(The Lullaby Trust, ).
(International Hip Dysplasia Institute, )
If you'd like to find out more read our article about the potential benefits and risks of swaddling a baby.
This page was last reviewed in September .
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Swaddling is a soothing technique that may help your newborn feel secure and sleep more soundly during those first few months. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about swaddling, from step-by-step instructions to its key benefits. You'll also find answers to common questions, like how long swaddling is safe for and when you should stop swaddling your baby.
Swaddling is a simple and time-tested technique where you gently wrap your little one in a swaddle blanket to help them feel safe and secure. This practice mimics the cozy environment of the womb, which is why many newborns find it so soothing.
If you've ever wondered, 'What does swaddle mean?', it all falls into helping your little one feel calm, especially during sleep. Think of your snugly wrapped newborn as a tiny, comforted bundle'almost like a baby burrito!
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Swaddling offers several important benefits for newborns, making it a valuable practice for parents. Here's why swaddling a baby can be so helpful:
Helps keep your baby warm during sleep by securely wrapping them in a blanket
Limits the startle reflex which often wakes babies up unexpectedly during sleep
Provides a sense of safety and security by mimicking the snug environment they experienced in the womb
Helps keep your baby calm, possibly even when your baby has colic
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Provides security and soothing during moments of discomfort, such as after vaccinations.
You'll want to know the safe and proper swaddling technique for your baby. Follow these swaddle instructions in the infographic below for a step-by-step guide on how to swaddle your baby.
How to swaddle a baby
Spread the blanket out on a flat surface, like a changing table or bed, with one corner folded down
Lay your baby face-up on the blanket, with their head just above the folded corner
Keep your baby's right arm straight by their side, then wrap the right corner of the blanket over them, tucking it under their body
Bring the bottom corner up over your baby's feet. Make sure to fold the blanket down if it's close to their face to prevent any obstruction
Next, wrap the left corner over your baby, keeping their left arm straight down. Only their head and neck should be exposed, making sure the blanket stays snug
Finally, check that the swaddle is not too tight around the hips and legs. Your baby's lower body should still be able to move freely. Wrapping too tightly may lead to hip dysplasia, so as long as you can slip a hand between the swaddle and your baby's chest, you're good to go.
Selecting the best swaddle for newborns is essential for ensuring both comfort and safety. When choosing a newborn swaddle, it's important to avoid weighted swaddles, as they may place too much pressure on a baby's chest and lungs. Additionally, be cautious with products that claim to reduce the risk of SIDS, as these claims have not been proven to lower such risks.
The fabric of your baby swaddle wrap may make a big difference. Look for materials like cotton, muslin, linen, or other natural fabrics that promote breathability, which helps prevent your baby from overheating during sleep.
In addition to a newborn swaddle, you may want to consider swaddle wraps or sleep sacks, which are designed for convenience and help make the use easier. These options, along with traditional receiving blankets'like the one you may have used to bring your newborn home'can all be great choices when deciding on the best newborn swaddle for your baby.
Swaddling can be especially helpful when your baby needs extra comfort at bedtime or naptime. You may swaddle your newborn for sleep, or when they need calming, such as when experiencing colic. Knowing when to swaddle a baby is important, as it helps your little one feel safe, warm, and secure.
Swaddling your newborn for sleep may promote better sleep, making it a great addition to your baby's sleep routine.
Although swaddling is generally safe during your baby's first couple of months, it's important to know when to stop swaddling. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you stop swaddling once your baby is able to roll over, which typically happens around the age of 4-7 months.
If you're wondering when to stop swaddling your baby, it's important to make this transition to ensure your baby's safety. Be sure to consult your baby's healthcare provider if you have concerns about when it's time to stop swaddling.
When learning how to swaddle your baby, you may wonder if you should swaddle them with their arms up or down. Using the proper swaddling technique, your baby's arms should be placed straight down by their sides, not crossed over their chest or sticking out of the swaddle.
Some parents may opt to swaddle with arms out as their baby grows or shows signs of rolling. If you're interested in how to transition or how to swaddle a newborn with their arms out, it's important to ensure that your baby is still secure and safe, while also allowing freedom of movement.
You may question if babies have to be swaddled, but it's not a requirement. While swaddling may provide comfort for some babies, it's perfectly fine if you choose not to swaddle. Some experts suggest that newborns don't need to be swaddled, and it may not be necessary for all babies.
If you need a demonstration on how to swaddle your baby to make an informed decision, your baby's healthcare provider or the hospital nurses may be able to show you how it's done.
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