If you are expecting a baby, especially if it is your first, there are no doubt a lot of things you don’t yet know. Becoming a parent for the first time can be extremely stressful. While it’s also exciting, you may worry about being able to properly care for your child and keep the baby safe. You must learn many new things both before and after the birth. One thing to think about is getting baby swaddle blankets to keep your infant warm and comfortable. However, it’s important to learn how to properly swaddle your baby.
What is Swaddling?
Swaddling is a method of wrapping your baby in a soft, comfortable blanket that can help aid in sleep and keep the baby warm and comfortable at the same time. It can also prevent the child from making an upright jerking motion that can scare him or her awake.
What Kind of Swaddle Blanket Should You Use?
In general, it’s important to choose the right kind of swaddle blanket. These items are usually made of cotton, but it’s wise to get one that is made with only organic materials and dyes that are water-based to protect your baby’s new, sensitive skin. Babies also have thinner skin than adults and produce fewer natural oils that work to protect the skin, which is why choosing the right swaddle is absolutely essential.
How Do You Properly Swaddle a Baby?
Swaddling a baby the proper way is very important. It ensures that your baby is comfortable and snug within the swaddle when you lay him or her down to sleep or for a nap. It also keeps the baby safe and warm. Practice makes perfect, so it’s a good idea to try swaddling several times before you have mastered the practice. There are five general rules to follow when you swaddle your child. They include the following steps:
• Put the swaddle blanket down on a flat surface, such as a bed or your child’s changing table. Put it in a diamond shape and make sure one corner is present at the top. Fold the corner down by around six inches.
• Place your baby on top of the swaddle and keep his or her head just above the fold of the blanket.
• It’s important to make sure your baby’s right arm is directly at his or her side and in a straight position. From there, you should wrap the left side of the swaddle blanket over the baby’s right arm. Afterward, carefully tuck it under your child’s body, but make sure to keep it underneath his or her left arm.
• Next, take the bottom corner of the swaddle blanket and pull it up and over the baby’s left shoulder. Make sure to tuck in any excess fabric, but make sure your baby is still able to move his or her legs by around hip-length.
• Finally, pull the right corner of the swaddle tightly and wrap it up over your baby’s left arm and the rest of his or her body. Be sure to tuck in any extra fabric as well.
When Should You Stop Swaddling?
It’s natural to use a swaddle blanket on your baby from the time he or she is mere weeks old. In general, once your child is old enough to begin rolling over, you should stop using the swaddle. Do so slowly, however, and wean your baby off it by modifying the amount of time he or she is wrapped up.
Knowing the proper way to swaddle will ensure that your baby is comfortable, warm and safe. He or she will also enjoy a more restful sleep without as many sudden awakenings.