Swaddling Your Baby: How to Do It Safely
Swaddling is a technique where you wrap your baby snugly in a thin blanket. This can help some infants relax and sleep better by limiting their startle reflex, where they suddenly fling out their arms and legs and then pull them back in, which can often wake them up.
However, it’s crucial to know when and how to swaddle your baby safely. Once your baby starts showing signs of trying to roll over—typically around 2 months old—swaddling should be discontinued. Whether swaddled or not, all infants should always be placed on their back to sleep, as improper swaddling can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the sudden and unexplained death of a baby under 1 year old.
When Should I Swaddle My Baby?
You can swaddle your baby for naps and nighttime sleep to see if it helps them feel more comfortable. Swaddling may also be beneficial if your baby is fussy or crying. It’s particularly helpful for easing colic, which is when a healthy baby cries more than usual for longer periods.
Swaddling can also provide comfort during stressful moments, such as when your baby is getting a vaccine. In such cases, you can swaddle your baby but leave one leg out for the shot, helping them stay calm before, during, and after the procedure.
How to Swaddle Your Baby Safely
To swaddle your baby properly, follow these steps:
- Prepare the Blanket: Spread out a thin baby blanket on a flat surface, folding one corner slightly.
- Position Your Baby: Lay your baby face-up on the blanket with their head above the folded corner. You can position their arms by their sides, crossed over their chest, or leave them outside the swaddle—whatever soothes them best.
- Wrap the Left Side: Take the left corner of the blanket and wrap it over your baby’s body, tucking it behind their back under the right arm.
- Secure the Bottom Corner: Bring the bottom corner of the blanket up over your baby’s feet, folding it down at their chest. Ensure the blanket doesn’t touch your baby’s face. Their hips and knees should be slightly bent and turned outwards. Avoid pulling the blanket too tight, as this can increase the risk of hip dysplasia (improper hip joint development).
- Wrap the Right Side: Take the right corner and wrap it around your baby, tucking it under their back on the left side, leaving only their neck and head exposed. If you’ve left their arms out, tuck the blanket under the left arm instead.
- Check the Fit: Ensure the swaddle is not too tight. You should be able to slip a hand between the blanket and your baby’s chest to allow for comfortable breathing. However, the blanket should not be so loose that it could come undone.
When Should I Stop Swaddling My Baby?
You should stop swaddling your baby as soon as they show signs of starting to roll over, which usually happens around 2 months of age. Rolling over while swaddled can be dangerous and increase the risk of suffocation.
Keeping Your Baby Safe While Swaddling
Swaddling, if not done correctly, can increase the risk of SIDS, especially if your baby is placed on their belly, rolls onto their tummy while swaddled, or becomes too hot.
To keep your swaddled baby safe:
- Follow Safe Swaddling Guidelines: Use the steps outlined above to ensure you’re swaddling your baby safely.
- Always Place Baby on Their Back: When putting your baby down to sleep, always lay them on their back, not on their side or stomach. Follow all safe sleep guidelines.
- Monitor for Overheating: Ensure your baby doesn’t get too hot. If you notice signs of overheating, like sweating or flushed cheeks, remove the swaddle immediately.
- Avoid Weighted Swaddles: Weighted swaddles can restrict breathing and are not safe for infants.
- Stop Swaddling When Rolling Begins: Discontinue swaddling as soon as your baby shows signs of starting to roll over independently.
Additional Tips for Swaddling
Learning to swaddle correctly and safely can take some practice. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or another healthcare provider to demonstrate the proper technique during a visit. You can also find reliable step-by-step videos online to guide you.
Swaddling can be a comforting practice for both you and your baby, but it’s essential to do it safely to ensure your baby’s well-being.