Those early newborn days are a season of learning and growth—for both you and your baby. If you’re wondering how to swaddle a newborn, here’s a straightforward guide with step-by-step instructions to help you feel calm and confident along the way.
What is Swaddling?
If you're a new or expecting parent, swaddling is probably part of your all-new vocabulary (along with terms like wake window, tummy time, and for nursing moms, a whole new definition for the word “letdown”). Succinctly put, swaddling is the ancient practice of wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket to help them feel secure while they sleep. For many newborns, that soft, cocooned feeling mirrors their experience in the womb, offering comfort as they adjust to life earthside.
Swaddling can:
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Help soothe fussy newborns
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Encourage longer stretches of rest
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Minimize wake-ups from the moro reflex (also known as the startle reflex)
How to Choose the Right Swaddle
The right swaddle blanket can make a big difference in your baby's comfort and safety. Here are some factors to consider when choosing one:
Material: Choose a fabric that’s breathable, lightweight, and gentle against delicate newborn skin. Our swaddles are made from our signature buttery-soft TENCEL™ Modal and generously sized (approx. 47" x 49") with a natural stretch that helps create a snug, soothing fit that stays put. Lightweight and breathable, they’re ideal for year-round use and can double as a blanket in warmer months. And they’re OEKO-TEX® certified so you can feel confident about the fabric touching your little one’s skin.
Size: Most swaddle blankets measure between 40 and 48 inches square. A generously sized blanket allows for a secure wrap without feeling restrictive and gives you flexibility as baby grows.
Type of Swaddle: There are two main types of swaddles: traditional swaddles and swaddle wraps. Traditional swaddle blankets are lightweight square blankets that require practice to master, but offer versatility and a customized fit as baby grows. Swaddle wraps are designed for convenience and often feature velcro, zippers, or some other kind of mechanism to make the wrapping process quicker.
Safety: A safe swaddle should:
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Fit snugly around baby’s torso
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Allow room for natural hip and leg movement
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Stay secure without loose or dangling fabric
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Hip-healthy swaddling is important. Babies’ legs should be able to bend and fall outward naturally to support proper hip development.
How To Swaddle A Baby: Step-By-Step Instructions
Unless you’re a baby nurse who spends your days wrapping burritos, a good swaddle job can be tough to nail at first. Be gentle with yourself and keep at it. As with any new skill, practice makes perfect. Our Solly Swaddle Tutorials walk you through three different swaddling techniques, step by step and here, we’ll walk you through one of the most common techniques.
Step 1: Lay your swaddle blanket flat and fold one corner down to create a triangle. Place your baby on their back in the center, with shoulders just below the folded edge.
Step 2: Gently place baby’s right arm alongside their body, slightly bent. Take the right side of the blanket and pull it securely across baby’s chest, tucking it underneath their body on the left side. Leave the left arm free for now.
Step 3: Fold the bottom corner of the blanket up over baby’s feet. Tuck the fabric loosely into the top edge near their shoulder, making sure there’s room for hips and legs to move naturally.
Step 4: Place baby’s left arm alongside their body. Pull the remaining side of the blanket across baby’s chest and tuck it securely underneath their body.
Step 5: Check the fit. The final swaddle should feel snug around the torso but allow space at the hips and legs. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between baby’s chest and the fabric, and baby should be able to easily scrunch their knees.
Common Swaddling Mistakes
Swaddling takes practice. If it feels awkward at first, you’re not alone. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:
Wrapping Too Tight: A swaddle should be secure, not restrictive. If baby seems uncomfortable or breathing appears strained, loosen the wrap slightly.
Not Leaving Room for Hips: Baby’s legs should be able to bend and move. Tight wrapping around the hips can increase the risk of hip dysplasia. Always allow room for natural positioning.
Swaddling Too High on the Chest: Fabric should sit below baby’s neck and never cover their face. Keep shoulders secure while allowing airflow and preventing overheating.
Using the Wrong Size: Too small, and it won’t stay secure. Too large, and excess fabric can bunch. Choose a swaddle that fits baby’s current stage.
Overheating: Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Dress baby in light layers under the swaddle and periodically check their temperature by feeling their chest or back (not hands or feet, which are often cooler).
How To Dress A Baby Under A Swaddle
Temperature regulation is the most important factor when it comes to dressing your baby to be swaddled. Dressing a baby too warm creates a risk for overheating, while a baby who's too cold may experience difficulty falling or staying asleep. A good rule of thumb is to dress a baby in one more layer of clothing than you would wear in the same room. For example, if you’re comfortable in a shirt and pants, you might dress your baby in a bodysuit under their swaddle. (Remember, the swaddle counts as a layer.) As always, keep an eye out for signs that your baby is too warm, such as flushed cheeks.
Swaddle-Safe Sleeping
Always practice safe sleeping guidelines when baby is swaddled. Put baby to sleep on their back (never on their side or stomach) and keep their crib or bassinet free from loose blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals.
When To Stop Using A Swaddle
You should discontinue the use of a swaddle as soon as baby starts showing signs of rolling over (typically around the 4-month mark). Before then, you might consider preparing for a transition out of the swaddle with a gradual approach—swaddling with one arm out, then both arms out, then removing the swaddle altogether. Once your baby grows out of their Solly swaddle, it makes the perfect lightweight blanket!
Practice Makes Perfect
Remember: Behind every perfectly wrapped baby burrito is someone who has wrapped and re-wrapped their baby (and re-wrapped again). Keep practicing, be patient, and you’ll be a swaddling pro in no time! And if you need extra guidance, you can always schedule a free consultation with us.
