Swaddling babies is traditional in many cultures around the world. It is a technique used to wrap the baby in such a manner as to simulate the womb. Swaddling keeps babies from flailing their arms around and startling themselves. Swaddled babies placed on their backs fall asleep more readily and often sleep longer.
Aussie Swaddle
The Aussie Swaddle is a swaddling technique that is slightly different from the traditional swaddling technique. According to bugnbelle.com, this technique lets the baby keep his hands up near his face, allowing him access to suck on his fingers. There are several steps in this technique. First, spread out a square blanket on a flat surface and make a 3- to 4-inch fold at the top. Place the baby in the center of the folded area with his head just above the fold. Next, take the left side of the swaddle and bring it across the baby's chest, and tuck the edge of the swaddle under his body to ensure a secure swaddle. Then, fold the bottom of the swaddle up and over the baby's feet. Finally, take the right side of the swaddle and bring it across the baby's chest. Tuck the excess fabric underneath your baby to secure the swaddle.
Traditional Swaddle
The traditional swaddle has been practiced for years, and there are many slight variations to how it is done. According to adviceforbaby.com, the best way to keep the baby wrapped is to tuck the blanket under her arm before pulling it across her chest. The traditional swaddling process has several steps. First, fold the top of the blanket down to form a triangle, and place the baby in the center of the blanket on the fold, with her head just above the fold. Next, fold the top from center over the baby's shoulder and tuck it under her arm before pulling it across her chest. Then tuck the corner behind the back as far as possible. At this point, you can decide to leave the baby's legs wrapped or unwrapped. Tuck the bottom up under the cross fold. Last, repeat the same process on the opposite side, and tuck the loose flap under the baby.
Swaddle Blankets
An easier method for swaddling your baby is the use of a swaddling blanket. Swaddling blankets are specially made for swaddling babies. They come in a preformed triangle shape, with Velcro attached for easy securing. They are available in a wide variety of colors, sizes and fabrics.
