4 Swaddling Tips for New Parents

Newborn babies are often fussy. The world is full of sights, sounds, and sensations that are unfamiliar to newborns. As a parent, you can ease the transition from the womb to the world by doing everything you can to comfort your baby. Swaddling is one way you can help your baby feel safe and protected.

Swaddling is the practice of wrapping babies tightly in blankets. Some babies aren't yet used to the movements of their own limbs, and they can find it troubling. Swaddling restricts a baby's movement in a gentle way that they find soothing. Here are four swaddling tips for new parents.

1. Swaddle your baby before bedtime.

A good night's sleep is important for your baby's health. Unfortunately, many babies have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Babies who are swaddled may fall asleep more readily. To give your whole household a better night's sleep, try swaddling your baby before bed. Very young babies don't move very much during the night, so a swaddled baby is in no danger of rolling over into a dangerous position. 

2. Use a swaddling blanket that makes swaddling easy.

You can use any type of blanket to swaddle your baby, but specialized swaddling blankets can make the task easier. Swaddling blankets are usually thin to keep babies from overheating. They are longer than normal blankets to allow parents to securely wrap babies. Some swaddling blankets even include velcro closures to help novice swaddlers. You should choose whichever blanket makes it easiest to swaddle your child. 

3. Choose a swaddling blanket that is easy to wash.

Every parent knows that babies can be messy. Babies often spit up or drool on their clothing. Swaddling blankets are likely to meet the same fate. You can keep your babies swaddling blankets pristine by washing them regularly. Purchase swaddling clothes that are machine washable and made from durable fabric that will stand up to frequent machine washing and drying. 

4. Pay attention to your baby's cues.

Most babies enjoy being swaddled. They find it comforting, and it may remind them of the safety of the womb. However, there may be times when your baby does not feel like being swaddled. Pay attention to your baby's cues while swaddling. If they cry or express discomfort, they may not want to be swaddled at that time. You can also try loosening or tightening the swaddling blanket to see if that alleviates your baby's discomfort.

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