When and how to swaddle: Safe swaddling practices for baby sleep
Ok newborn parents, let's dive into the topic of swaddling! As a sleep coach, I often get asked about this, so let’s have a chat about what it is, the benefits and risks, and how to do it safely.
What Is Swaddling?
Swaddling is essentially wrapping your baby snugly in a light, breathable blanket, keeping their arms secure but leaving their neck and head free. The idea is to recreate that snug, comforting feeling of being in the womb. Swaddling has been used throughout history since 4000BC and it is estimated that around 1 in 5 babies in the UK are swaddled during the newborn phase. In the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe, swaddling often recommended by some pediatricians and maternity nurses to help babes to sleep, reduce crying and stress. A form of “wrapping” is also seen throughout African and Asian cultures for the perceived calming effects
What Are the Benefits of Swaddling?
Some parents swear by swaddling to help their babies settle more easily and sleep longer. Babies are born with the Moro Reflex (commonly called the Startle Reflex) which is an involentary motor response where babies feel like they are falling when laid on their back. These jerky arm movements can disrupt babies’ sleep in the early weeks. Swaddling mimics the snug feeling of the womb and prevents this reflex.
Research shows that swaddling, along with other soothing like sounds and movement, can calm crying babies and encourage deeper, longer sleep (Möller et al, 2019; Nelson, 2017). And for premature babies, it has been found to improve neuromuscular development and ease discomfort (Sleuwen et al, 2007; Kitase et al, 2017).
If your baby is showing signs that they do not like being swaddled, check out the article I wrote on the topic.
Related: What to do when your baby hates the swaddle
What Are the Risks of Swaddling?
There have been concerns that over-swaddling might make breastfeeding tricky if it limits skin-to-skin contact that can be so important for newborn development. Some people worry that it encourages babies to sleep too deeply, which could reduce the time they spend learning about their environment.
Another concern is hip dysplasia, which can happen if the swaddle is too tight around baby's hips. The baby's legs need enough space to bend at the hips and fall into a natural position (Clarke, 2014).
Is Swaddling Safe?
Yes. as long as you follow safe sleeping and hip friendly swaddling guidance, the benefits highly outweigh the risks (Nelson, 2017; McDonnell & Moon 2017). Always put your baby down on their back and never swaddle them on their stomach or side (Pease et al, 2016). Always stop swaddling as soon as your baby starts showing signs of rolling over (Nelson, 2017).
Tips for Safe Swaddling
Here are some simple tips to keep in mind when swaddling (Lullaby Trust, 2021):
Temperature Check: Make sure your baby isn’t too hot by dressing them in appropriate clothes for the weather and checking their temperature regularly. Avoid swaddling them if they’re sick or have a fever.
Material Matters: Use thin, breathable fabrics like muslin and cotton. Avoid adding extra blankets on top to prevent overheating.
Head and Neck Free: Only swaddle from the shoulders down. Make sure the swaddle is snug but not too tight and all material is secure and won’t come loose as your baby moves.
Hip-Friendly Technique: Your baby’s hips and knees should be free to move naturally to prevent hip dysplasia. Their legs should be able to move like frog legs.
Back to Sleep: Always put your swaddled baby to sleep on their back, never on their front or side.
Check the Product: If you’re using a swaddle product, ensure it meets safety standards and fits well. Follow the guidelines on age and weight ratings (McDonnell & Moon 2017).
Educate Caregivers: If someone else is looking after your baby, make sure they know how to swaddle safely and follow safe sleep guidelines.
How Long Should You Swaddle?
Swaddling is most beneficial, appropriate and safe for newborns. Once your baby shows signs of rolling over, it’s time to start transitioning them away from swaddling (Pease et al, 2016, McDonnell & Moon 2017, Nelson, 2017). Generally, transitioning your baby out of the swaddle between 3-4 months is a good benchmark. This is when having their arms free can be helpful in supporting their sleep development.
Feel free to check out the article I wrote on transitioning out of the swaddle if you are looking for support and tips.
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My 1-hour mini Q&A is perfect for all swaddling and newborn related questions. Unsure if this is right for you? Feel free to schedule a FREE 30-min consult !