To Swaddle or Not to Swaddle…
Wondering how the nurses magically get that swaddle so perfect in the hospital? Want to know what the trick is? Maybe a shortcut? Not sure if your brain is up for that at 3am? This post is for you. Here are our favorite hacks and products to make baby nice and cozy!
IF YOU’RE NEW TO THE IDEA OF SWADDLING, THE CONCEPT IS QUITE SIMPLE. IT’S A WAY OF WRAPPING A BLANKET AROUND YOUR BABY TIGHT ENOUGH SO THEY CAN’T WIGGLE OUT THAT KEEPS THEM NICE AND SNUG- REMINISCENT OF THEIR TIME IN THE WOMB!
SWADDLING CAN BE GREAT FOR A FEW REASONS:
It prevents the newborn startle reflex from waking them by keeping baby’s arms tight to their sides- this can be especially good at night. During the day, allowing baby to show some startle reflexes especially with their hands that can be an early feeding cue that helps get baby fed BEFORE they get upset.
Newborns feel comforted in a tight wrap that is similar to how they felt in the womb. If you think about it- babies are REALLY used to cramped spaces more so than having tons of space to sprawl out!
Swaddling keeps babies warm without the suffocation hazards of loose blankets.
SHOULD ALL BABIES BE SWADDLED?
Swaddling newborns is generally regarded as safe. But, if your baby suffers from hip dysplasia or other hip issues, as well if your baby has other heart or lung issues or disabilities that a startle reflex may benefit them, swaddling may be contraindicated. So check with your pediatrician if you have any questions about what is best for YOUR baby. Also, keep in mind, every baby is different. Some babies just don’t like swaddling. Others like the weight of a swaddle around their body without their arms being swaddled. Trial and error is required to figure out the best method for your family.
TYPES OF SWADDLES:
Traditional swaddling blankets: These are large, thin blankets that you wrap baby up in like a little burrito. They can be used for other things post swaddling, like blankets and burp cloths, but there’s definitely a learning curve and a bit of effort involved!
Swaddling sacks and pouches: Easier to navigate for new parents, these tend to come with things like Velcro, snaps and zippers to help you get that snug swaddle with little to no effort.
SOME TRICKS FOR SWADDLES THAT DON’T ZIP, VELCRO, OR SNAP AS WELL AS SWADDLE SAFETY TIPS:
http://www.safebee.com/family/5-tips-swaddling-newborn
In 2011, the National Resource Center expressed concerns that babies who are swaddled too tightly might develop problems in their hips. To prevent this, the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America and the AAP Section on Orthopedics both recommend “hip-healthy swaddling” that allows a baby’s legs to move up and out.
https://www.halosleep.com/blog/tips-for-safe-swaddling/
OUR FAVORITE SWADDLES THAT REQUIRE ALMOST ZERO EFFORT:
The Halo Sleep Sack Wearable Blanket
Sleeping Baby Zippy Swaddle and Zipadee-Zip
Need some more in-depth swaddling tips? Postpartum support in general? Trying to sort out your baby registry and just can’t seem to cover all the bases? Contact us today to help you get the support you need before, during, and after birth!
