Swaddling can work like magic in calming a fussy, tired or overstimulated baby. The simple act of wrapping him in a receiving blanket will help recreate the snug environment of the womb. Swaddling may also help the baby sleep for longer as being bundled up will prevent him from startling himself awake. Bear in mind that not all babies like to be swaddled, and you may find your baby squirming out of his blanket.
Step 1
Place the receiving blanket on a flat surface like a bed, couch, changing table or floor. Spread the blanket so that one corner is pointing up, one down, one to your left and the other to your right, like a diamond shape.
Step 2
Fold the top corner down approximately 5 to 6 inches and gently lay your baby down so that her head is above the fold and her shoulders are parallel to the fold.
Step 3
Take the right corner of the receiving blanket and pull it across your baby's torso and tuck it under the left side of your baby's back.
Step 4
Fold the bottom corner over your baby's feet, covering them.
Step 5
Wrap the left corner of the receiving blanket across your baby's torso and tuck it under the right side of your baby's back. Only your baby's head and neck should be visible.
Tips and Warnings
- Check that your baby isn't too hot by feeling her ears and fingers. If they are red and sweaty it means she is too hot. Try removing a layer of clothing or using a blanket that is not as thick or warm.
- To reduce the risk of death from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, always place your baby on his back to sleep after swaddling him. Make sure you don't swaddle the baby too tightly. Your baby should feel snug, but not confined or restricted by the blanket.
Things You'll Need
- Receiving blanket
