Swaddling is the process of fully wrapping a baby’s arms, torso, and legs with a comfortable blanket, giving some space for the legs to move freely. It makes the baby feel like they are in a mother’s womb and helps them gradually get used to new surroundings. Good quality swaddling blankets help regulate a baby’s body temperature, makes them feel safe and secure, and helps them sleep better and longer.

What are swaddling and receiving blankets?
Swaddling blankets are intended only for swaddling a baby in the early weeks after birth to limit movement and prevent startling, particularly while sleeping. You may need a swaddling blanket only for three to four months until they roll over, after which you should wean them away from swaddling. Swaddling blankets are usually available as square blankets, mostly in small, medium, and large sizes.

Receiving blanks are smaller than swaddling blankets and are used to receive a baby after childbirth in birth clinics or after their daily bath. These are available in different sizes, colors, and patterns and can be used for various purposes, such as burp cloths, stroller covers, and nursing covers.

Both swaddling and receiving blankets are available in safe, breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton, flannel, muslin, or bamboo.

Types of swaddling and blankets
There are many ways to swaddle a baby, and you can find swaddling blankets for each type:

Traditional swaddling blankets
They are large blankets specifically for swaddling and will be right for your baby until they are three or four months. You can choose cotton, knit, muslin, and bamboo fabrics.

Sleepsack swaddling blankets
They are similar to swaddling blankets that resemble a pouch. They are easy to use and come with zippers and velcro patches. Some sleepsack swaddling blankets have two-way zippers, making it easy for a diaper change.

Swaddle pods
Swaddle pods are pre-stitched swaddling pouches. All you have to do is place the baby in the pod comfortably and zip them up. You don’t have to worry if you are not sure about the right way to swaddle.

Tips for choosing the right swaddling blanket
When you swaddle a newborn, it should neither be too tight nor too loose. If the swaddle is too tight, it may cause suffocation and problems in a baby’s hips. Always use thin material that prevents overheating, and never swaddle a baby’s neck and head. If the weather is too cold, use a swaddling blanket made from a thicker material. Do not swaddle a baby who can roll over or prefers side sleeping, as it could increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). When choosing a swaddling blanket, here are a few points that you should keep in mind:

Choose a material that is stretchable, lightweight, and breathable.

Remember the seasons, the local weather conditions, and the room temperature.

Swaddling blankets come with a Thermal Overall Grading (TOG) rating, indicating how warm the fabric is. Choose blankets with higher TOG ratings if you are in very cold areas.

Ensure the blanket is made with non-toxic and hypoallergenic fabric, as an infant’s skin is very soft and sensitive.

If buying swaddling pods, check the labels to see if they have adequate space around the hips for free movement.

Wash the swaddling blankets with mild and organic detergent twice a week.