Swaddling is a time-honored practice that helps newborns feel safe and secure, almost like they’re back in the womb. Done correctly, it can also promote better sleep and reduce startle reflexes that often wake babies up.

Benefits of Swaddling

1. Encourages longer stretches of sleep. 
2. Prevents babies from startling themselves awake with sudden arm movements.
3. Helps calm fussy babies by mimicking the snug environment of the womb.

How to Swaddle Safely

1. Lay out the blanket in a diamond shape and fold the top corner down slightly.
2. Place your baby on their back with their shoulders just below the fold.
3. Secure one arm– Gently straighten your baby’s arm down by their side and fold the blanket across their chest, tucking it under their body.
4. Bring up the bottom – Fold the bottom corner up over their feet.
5. Secure the other arm – Straighten the other arm down, then fold the blanket across and tuck it under their back.

Important Safety Tips

• Always place your baby on their back for sleep.
• Stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling over (usually around 2 months).
• Make sure the swaddle is snug around the arms but loose around the hips to prevent hip dysplasia.
• Never cover your baby’s face or allow loose blankets in the crib.
• Swaddling isn’t a magic fix, but for many families, it makes a world of difference in helping their newborns feel soothed and secure.