Swaddling your Baby, and Why it is Important
Swaddling is the technique of wrapping your baby in a blanket for warmth and security. The tightness of the blanket makes sure your baby can’t hurt themselves and settles them down when overstimulated. Ever watch your baby punch themselves in the eye, and then look at you like you did it? Ha!Because your baby can’t move their arms, it helps to calm them down rather than being over stimulated by every movement and sound. Their startle reflex is lessened since they can’t get startled from their own movements. This also helps your baby sleep longer and deeper, something every parents can say amen about!
The baby will feel like they’re being held and also feels similar to when your baby was still growing inside your womb. This calms your baby and may even help them to stop crying quickly. Only swaddle your baby after having fed them and changed their diapers. Otherwise they will be fussy nonetheless. Having a wet booty will trump even the best swaddle.
How to swaddle your baby
First, it’s important to know not to wrap your baby too tightly. This can cause stunted growth or hip dysplasia. Here is a short guide to wrap your baby safely and correctly.
Step 1: Lay the blanket on a flat surface with one of the 4 corners at the top, creating a diamond shape. Fold down the top corner about 15cm/6 inches until you have a straight edge.
Step 2: Place your baby with their shoulders against the edge you have just made, the rest of their body should be on the blanket.
Step 3: If you baby is fussy, bring their left arm down and fold the left corner over their arms and body and tuck it underneath their back.
Step 4: Bring down their right arm and fold the right corner over their arm and body and tuck it underneath their left side.
Step 5: Fold the bottom of the blanket but leave enough space for your baby to kick their legs and move their hips naturally. Tuck it loosely underneath them.
Our swaddles are made from 100% bamboo without the use of toxic ingredients. Bamboo has naturally thick fibres and therefore creates a soft and warm blanket which is perfect for babies. The blankets are 47 inches by 47 inches and can be used for multiple purposes too, like burping cloths, nursing blanket and as a stroller cover. It’s also machine washable, getting softer with every wash!