Swaddling Your Baby

Swaddling is a technique that involves wrapping a baby in a blanket or cloth to mimic the feeling of being in the womb. It can help to soothe a fussy baby and promote better sleep. However, it’s important to follow safe swaddling practices to ensure the baby is comfortable and not at risk of suffocation or overheating.

First, make sure to use a lightweight, breathable blanket or cloth for swaddling. Muslin or cotton are good choices. Avoid using thick or heavy blankets, as they can trap heat and make the baby too warm. Also, it’s important to ensure that the blanket is not wrapped too tightly around the baby’s hips, as this can potentially cause hip dysplasia. Not swaddling the baby too tight in the hip area is important for proper hip development. A good way to ensure this is to use a swaddle that allows for the baby’s legs to move freely, such as the “hip-healthy” swaddle wraps that are now available in the market.

It’s also important to check on the baby frequently while they are swaddled, especially during the first few weeks. Make sure that they are not overheating and that their face is not covered by the blanket. It’s also a good idea to stop swaddling once the baby starts to roll over, as this can increase the risk of suffocation. Babies, typically, begin to roll over at around 4 months of age.

Swaddling can be a great way to soothe a fussy baby and promote better sleep, but it’s important to follow safe practices to ensure the baby is comfortable and not at risk of suffocation or overheating. Always use a lightweight, breathable blanket or cloth, ensure that the baby’s hips are not constrained, and check on the baby frequently. Consult with a doula or infant care specialist for more questions about swaddling your infant.