Healthy Habits: When Should You Stop Swaddling Your Newborn?

Swaddling is one of the most popular ways to calm a newborn baby. If you’re not familiar with swaddling, the parenthood experts at Healthline define it as a technique for wrapping an infant in a blanket. When you swaddle correctly, your child’s entire body, except for their head, is tucked into the cloth material. Using swaddle blankets has many benefits, including soothing your baby and helping dull their startle reflex so they can sleep peacefully.

To keep your newborn safe, however, you’ll need to check for overheating or swaddling too tightly. You should also know when to stop swaddling your baby to prevent suffocation or injury. Whether you’re in the process of learning how to swaddle a baby or are already a seasoned pro, this guide will go over the reasons why you should eventually make the switch from swaddle to blankets. You’ll also find the answers as to the right time to make the transition.

Reasons to Stop Swaddling Your Baby
Many families turn to swaddling to help their baby nap and sleep. Since it can be so effective, new parents are usually wondering how long they can rely on the technique. If your child can roll, you should switch to a wearable blanket instead. Pediatricians say that the age when babies start rolling intentionally or unintentionally from side to side is still within the newborn phase.

If they’re not used to rolling or are wrapped too tightly, they can be in danger of injury or suffocation. It’s even possible for them to hurt themselves on the sides of the bassinet or crib. For this reason, you can choose a new garment and begin to support self-soothing skills instead.

When to Transition From Swaddling
According to HealthyChildren.org, your family should stop using swaddle blankets when baby is two months old. However, many infants begin rolling by four months. Doctors recommend you err on the side of caution since your child can begin this skill anytime in the first eight weeks.

If your baby seems uncomfortable or overheats easily, stop swaddling sooner. In fact, some infants are never wrapped in a blanket once they arrive home. Many new parents prefer wearable blankets or footed pajamas from the start. If you have questions about your specific situation, consider your climate and weather. You can also consult with your baby’s physician.

Practicing Safe Swaddling
Your baby will probably be swaddled the night they’re born. Your nurses will wrap them up after delivery, as well as after their first bath. Many newborns enjoy it and get used to it in the few months of their lives. Keep the experience entirely positive by practicing safe swaddling techniques and watching your child for cues of discomfort. It’s also important to watch out for signs of rolling, says Parents. Look for cues like pushing upward during tummy time and moving a leg across the body while baby lies on their back.

Now that you know when you should stop swaddling, you can plan ahead. Buy the right supplies such as pajamas and blankets to make your child more comfortable during the transition. A sleeveless wearable blanket with a zipper is an excellent compromise for an infant who doesn’t want to sleep without a swaddle blanket. Some parents want to keep their baby’s feet free. If this sounds like you, make sure you have the right baby sleepwear to provide cozy comfort and dreamy nights.

Choosing the Right Sleepwear for Your Baby
Footed pajamas and union suits are wonderful choices to keep newborns warm and snuggly. Their zippered design makes it easy for babies to stay peaceful during nighttime diaper changes. There are footless options for infants who are taller than average or thermal versions for the coldest nights of the year.

Searching for a two-piece outfit for bedtime? Look for long sleeve and short sleeve pajama sets with shorts and pants. With the help of convenient and cute multipacks, you can be prepared for sleeping in any type of weather. No matter your preference, the quality and coziness of the sleepwear you choose will keep your baby from missing their swaddle blanket.