The blanket should be at least 40 by 40 inches (100 cm × 100 cm). If you can buy a blanket specifically for swaddling, this is best. Ideally, the blanket should be made of a light, breathable material, such as muslin cotton. This will help prevent your baby from becoming overheated, especially if you live in a warm area. [2] X Research source For easy swaddling, you can purchase a specially designed swaddler with Velcro fasteners that hold the flaps in place. Make sure to choose one that’s appropriate for your baby’s size and age.
The folded corner will help guide your placement of the baby. Your blanket should now resemble the outline of a cartoon drawing of a gem or the Superman symbol, with 3 corners on the sides and bottom and a flat area on top.
It’s very important to keep your baby face-up and make sure they are positioned so that their face will not be covered by the blanket after you swaddle them.
Alternatively, you can fold the arm across their chest, like they are in the womb. [6] X Research source However, your baby may be able to wriggle free if their arms are bent. [7] X Research source
The blanket should be tucked snugly enough to hold the baby’s left arm in place at their side.
You can also fold their right arm across their chest if you wish, but remember that this will make it easier for the baby to break free of the swaddle.
Your baby’s entire upper body should now be gently but firmly wrapped, with both arms held securely in place. Make sure you can fit 2 or 3 fingers between the baby’s chest and the blanket. If not, you will need to undo the swaddle and rewrap it a little more loosely.
Alternatively, you can fold up the bottom corner of the blanket over the baby’s feet before you pull the other side of the blanket across the baby’s body. [12] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Important: Leave plenty of room for the baby’s legs and feet to move within the swaddle. This will prevent overheating and, over the long term, hip dysplasia. [13] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Pediatrics Peer-reviewed medical and health resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics Go to source
There’s no evidence that swaddling can prevent or reduce the risk of SIDS. [15] X Research source However, if done correctly, this practice can be safe and beneficial for your baby. [16] X Research source
Even before babies are able to roll over intentionally, they can sometimes accidentally flip themselves over by arching their backs or flailing around when they are upset or excited. Never leave your baby unattended on an elevated surface, such as a changing table, even if you don’t think they’re able to roll over yet. [19] X Research source Not all babies are able to roll over by the time they’re 2 months old, but it’s safest to stop swaddling before they develop that ability. If you notice that your baby is able to roll over before the age of 2 months, stop swaddling them right away. Once your baby is too old for swaddling, consider trying an alternative like a sleep sack (which loosely covers the legs but leaves the arms free) or footie pajamas.
If the swaddling is wrapped too tightly around the baby’s legs, it could prevent their hips from developing correctly. [22] X Expert Source Corey Fish, MDPediatrician & Chief Medical Officer, BraveCare Expert Interview. 17 March 2020. On the other hand, if the swaddle is wrapped too loosely, there’s a danger that it could come undone and cover the baby’s face, creating a risk of suffocation. [23] X Expert Source Corey Fish, MDPediatrician & Chief Medical Officer, BraveCare Expert Interview. 17 March 2020.
Rapid breathing Damp hair or sweating Flushed skin A heat rash
Cover the mattress with a fitted sheet that’s designed to fit the mattress. Make sure the mattress also fits well in your baby’s crib or bassinet. Check for any gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib, since your baby could potentially roll into one of these and get stuck.
Most babies can start safely using a pillow by the time they’re 1 ½ years old. Your baby can probably start using loose blankets by the time they’re 1 year old. Check with your pediatrician if you’re not sure whether your child is ready. [27] X Research source
