Swaddling is the process of wrapping your baby up tightly in a receiving blanket. Some newborns seem to sleep better with swaddling, which closely mimics the close confines of the uterus. However, other newborns prefer a modification of the swaddle, where the arms aren't confined in the swaddling. Since swaddling also limits the startle reflex that wakes many newborns, try swaddling to see if you can help your newborn be more comfortable as she gets used to being out in the world.
Step 1
Place the receiving blanket on a soft surface. Fold one corner down, so that is resembles an imperfect triangle.
Step 2
Place your baby on his back in the middle of the triangle. Most newborns are swaddled from the shoulders down, though some prefer to have their arms free.
Step 3
Pull the right corner over your bab,y and tuck it under her body. Some babies like to have their arms inside this initial fold, and other babies like to have the blanket tucked between their body and their arm.
Step 4
Pull the bottom of the triangle up, being sure that the blanket does not cover the baby's face or mouth. Most receiving blankets aren't wide enough for this to occur, but if your blanket is unusually shaped, tuck the extra material in toward your baby to keep it securely away from his face and avoid any potential for suffocation.
Step 5
Pull the left corner across your baby, and tuck it into the blanket if you're picking her up. If you're putting her to sleep in a bassinet or crib, you can simply tuck the blanket under her body, being sure it doesn't create an uncomfortable lump. A relatively tight swaddle works for many newborns, but some newborns prefer a milder swaddle. Experiment with your baby to see what she likes best.
Step 6
Practice swaddling during the day to ensure that you can do it easily and fluidly at night, when you most want you and your baby to sleep.
Tips and Warnings
- Once your baby can roll over, don't include his arms in the swaddle to avoid any potential for suffocation.
Things You'll Need
- Receiving blanket
