Tips to swaddle a newborn baby

When you swaddle a newborn, it helps the baby feel warm, secure, and comfy. Moreover, swaddling can be great for newborns in their early months.

What Is Swaddling?

Swaddling is an ancient technique for wrapping babies in a swaddle blanket or a cloth to soothe them. It is super cute! Who doesn’t adore a baby burrito? However, it also serves an extremely important purpose of helping your little one stay calm and sleep soundly.

What Are the Benefits of Swaddling?

The benefits of swaddling are as follows:

· Helps in keeping your newborn baby warm

· Aids in limiting the startle reflex which can disturb your baby during sleep

· Provides a sense of safety and security by mimicking the environment of the womb

· Helps keep your little one calm

· Comforts your baby after an uncomfortable event maybe like a vaccination

How to swaddle, step-by-step

First-time parents usually don’t know how to swaddle. At first, it may seem a bit daunting, but wrapping up your baby simply takes a few steps. Here’s how you can easily swaddle your baby with a blanket:

Step 1: Find a flat surface

Spread the swaddle blanket in the shape of a diamond with one corner pointing upwards and then fold the top corner down, just about 6 inches. You must do this on a flat surface like the middle of your bed maybe.

Step 2: Place your baby face-up on the blanket

Your little one’s head should be sitting above the folded edge of the blanket and the body should be extending straight downwards to the bottom corner.

Step 3: Straighten your baby’s left arm

Now all you have to do is take the left side of the swaddle blanket and wrap it over your baby’s left arm and chest. Tuck the blanket underneath the right arm and back.

Step 4: Bring up the bottom

Now fold the bottom corner of the blanket upwards to the baby’s body and tuck it under the first fold below the chin. At this point, you have to straighten your baby’s right arm and pull the right side of the blanket over your newborn body and tuck it under the left side.

Step 5: Secure the blanket

In the end, you can loosely twist the bottom of the blanket and tuck it under your little one.

Always keep in mind that the swaddle should not be too tight but snug. You must be able to place two to three fingers between the blanket and your baby’s chest.

When Should You Swaddle Your Newborn?

Swaddling is usually best for nighttime sleep, for a nap, or when the baby needs some soothing.

What Kind of Swaddle Should You Use for Your Baby?

You can use a swaddle blanket made of cotton, linen, muslin, a cotton blend, or any other natural material. It is best to opt for a fabric that is breathable and can prevent your baby from overheating.