Image: MomJunction Design Team
When your little one is born as a preemie, they might not be ready for the worldly sounds and lights. Thanks to the best swaddle for preemie, with which your little one can feel protected and warm. Preemies have sensitive skin, so having a swaddle designed especially for them is essential. Right from designs resembling a sack to fasteners to wrap up the baby regardless of indoors or outdoors, our review of the swaddles would bring you the best. Check them here.
Top Picks
7 Best Swaddles For Preemies In 2024
1. Best Cotton: SwaddleMe Original Swaddle
The SwaddleMe Original swaddle comes in three sizes or stages, suitable for babies weighing from 7lb to 18lb. They are ultra-soft and made from 100% cotton to keep the baby warm and secure. These safe and effective swaddles help prevent the baby from getting startled by engulfing them in a womb-like feel. Further, this gender-neutral preemie cotton swaddle will quickly become dad-and-mom-approved as it is machine-washable.
Pros
- Adjustable preemie wrap
- Features a hook-and-loop closure
- Slit on the back – safe to use in bouncers and swings
- Soft material and smooth texture
Cons
- May be thicker than expected
- May be a bit large for preemie
"I like that this swaddle is easy to use. Thanks to the velcro closure, changing diapers in the middle of the night is fuss-free. Overall, it's been a worthy purchase for secure swaddling."
Caution2. Best Durable: Bublo Baby Preemie Swaddle Blanket Wrap
The Bublo Baby swaddles could be the right choice for a baby weighing up to seven pounds. This mom’s choice pack includes three wraps made of high-quality cotton and is delicate on the baby’s sensitive skin. Available in three sizes, the preemie sleep sack envelops the child in a womb-like comfort while providing the right fit. Unlike regular sleep sacks, these provide warmth and security and keep the baby from getting startled. Durability and longevity are some added features of this swaddle, making it a trusted choice. They are great for gifting and self-use.
Pros
- Wide opening
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure
- Made from breathable material
- Roomy
Cons
- May slightly shrink
- Velcro placement may be awkward
"I think these swaddles are fairly light and soft, keeping my baby comfortable at night, especially during warmer seasons. Also, they are stretchable. Although an added zipper system would have been helpful; nonetheless, they've become essential to our bedtime routine."
Why It’s Worth Buying: With over 4,989 reviews on Amazon, it’s clear that many people have trusted, tested, and liked this product.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 4,989 good reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Breathable Cotton: The Original Woombie Baby Swaddling Blanket
A combination of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, Woombie swaddling wrap is ideal for babies weighing from 5lb to 13lb. This wearable blanket type of swaddle makes the baby’s transition from the womb to the outside world easier. Made from breathable cotton that provides proper ventilation, this product has been tested by many users. It is made from breathable cotton that provides proper ventilation. A two-way zipper makes diaper changes easier. Here’s a personal review video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Promotes back sleeping, which reduces the risk of SIDS
- Arm-free interior
- Narrow waistline
- Stretchable material
- Snap-over tab to prevent zip scratch
Cons
- May be a bit tight at the neck
- Zipping up may be a bit hard for some
"My little one feels all cozy and snug with this swaddle wrapped around. It's stretchy and gives her space for easy movement. Moreover, its double zipper system allows for fuss-free diaper changes. Overall, it's a handy choice for comfortable, secure swaddling."
Do rememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The 1,496 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
SwaddleMe Original Swaddle Best Cotton | Bublo Baby Preemie Swaddle Blanket Wrap Best Durable | The Original Woombie Baby Swaddling Blanket Best Breathable Cotton | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Ivory | Aqua | Twilight Heathered Gray |
| Material | Cotton | Cotton | Cotton. |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces | 9.6 ounces | 0.15 Kilograms |
| Dimensions | 9"L x 1.25"W | 20"L x 24"W | 21.95"L x 8.46"W |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,665 | 4,989 | 1,496 |
| Price | $14.17 | $18.99 | $34.99 |
4. Best With Moisture-Wicking Technology: Halo Sleepsack Micro-fleece Swaddle
The Halo baby sleepsack swaddle is made of 100% polyester micro-fleece fabric. It offers a cuddled sleep to your preemie. The plush is super-soft and is designed with moisture-wicking technology. The tried-and-tested preemie fleece swaddle keeps the baby super warm during winter and minimizes the startle reflex. The three-way preemie adjustable swaddle also has inverted zippers for easy diaper changes. This compact-size preemie swaddle pod is suitable for babies weighing up to 5lb.
Pros
- Sleeveless design to prevent overheating
- Arm and neck opening for ideal fit
- Roomy sack design allows arm movement
- Easy to put on
- Comfortable in any climate
Cons
- May be slightly smaller for some
- Zipper may be a bit flimsy
"What I love the most about this swaddle is its arms-in and arms-out convenience, letting me change the positions according to my baby's needs. I also see her sleeping longer in this than usual. So, I would recommend it for easy transitioning."
Why It’s Worth Buying: The whopping 621 positive reviews on Amazon reflect that the product has been trusted, tested, and liked by many.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 621 positive reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Lightweight:Mama Cheetah Swaddle Blanket
Crafted from 100% organic cotton, the Mama Cheetah swaddle blankets are lightweight and breathable. These dad-and-mom-approved blankets come with adjustable fabric wings, making it easier for newbie parents to wrap their children securely and comfortably. Further, the soft fabric wings and hook and loop attachment keep the blanket in place while providing a snug fit, making it a safe and effective way to keep the little one comfortable. The swaddle blanket is suitable for everyday wear and can sustain weights up to seven pounds.
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
- Regulates temperature
- Promotes uninterrupted sleep
- Meets Global Organic Textile standards
Cons
- Velcro might get stiff after a few washes
- May be a little big for some
"I found these swaddles quite useful for my newborn. The velcro system keeps him secure without overheating. Also, they're easy to use, even for my mother. They have served me well so far."
6. Best For Sensitive Skin: MioRico Baby Swaddle Blankets
The organic cotton swaddles from MioRico, a trusted brand, are ideal for newborn babies. These dad-and-mom-approved swaddles are available in various sizes for your growing baby. The preemie organic swaddle features an adjustable hook-and-loop fastener that allows you to tighten the wrap snugly around the child.It features lightweight, breathable fabric that is gentle on sensitive skin. The cute preemie wrap with fastener keeps the arms wrapped in to minimize startling and provides a womb-like feeling for the baby.
Pros
- Overlock stitch to prevent thread shedding
- Anti-fading dye
- Soft and two-layer design
- Curvature shape with plenty of room
- Machine washable
- Shrink- and pilling-resistant
- Available in various colors and prints
Cons
- Velcro may stop sticking over time
- Material may be slightly thicker than expected
"I love this swaddle's soft fabric quality. It keeps my newborn cozy in any position. Due to its washable nature, it's easy to maintain as well. A foot opening would have been nice for easy diaper changes; regardless, it's worth the comfort it offers."
7. Best Machine-Washable:Delta Children Little Lambs Adjustable Swaddle Wrap
Give your baby the comfort of a mother’s womb with the Delta Children Little Lambs swaddle wrap. This baby-friendly swaddle is made of 100% cotton and features adjustable wings with a hook and loop system for a snug, comfy fit and to provide a secure feeling. It is machine-washable and is the ideal swaddle for newborns as it’s suitable for babies weighing four to seven pounds and babies between zero to three months of age. Further, the soft texture of the preemie velcro swaddle wrap is apt for delicate skin.
Pros
- Prevents Moro reflex
- Spacious for leg movement
- Quick to wrap
- Made of soft material
- Available in several prints
Cons
- Opening velcro can be hard for some
"These swaddle wraps have been a delightful pick for my little one. They're soft and are easy to use with the velcro fastening. Plus, they nicely retain the shape after washing. I am particularly in love with the cute prints!"
How To Choose The Right Preemie Swaddle?
Here are some points to consider when buying a preemie swaddle.
- Material: Consider swaddles made of soft and comforting materials such as cotton as they are breathable and allow proper ventilation. They also have moisture-wicking properties to prevent sweat accumulation. Fleece is also good for colder places.
- Stretch: Pick a stretchable swaddle so the baby can freely move their hands and legs. It will also provide the perfect snug fit.
- Purpose: Consider a saddle with a sack-like design or hook-and-loop or velcro fasteners. Besides making it easy to position the baby, these also keep the blanket tight and curb startling reflexes. If you are looking for a swaddle blanket to move the baby out of the wrap slowly, pick a stretchable and open swaddle.
- Size and age: Swaddles come in various sizes, depending on the age or weight of the baby. Pick the right size to keep your baby comfortable and safe. A loose blanket may cause a choking hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe for a preemie to sleep in a swaddle blanket?
Preemie babies feel secure when they are wrapped in a swaddle blanket. However, ensure that the hands and legs are tucked in, and be aware that swaddling may reduce a baby’s arousal (1) (2).
2. How long should a preemie be swaddled?
It is best to not wrap your preemie in a swaddle blanket all through the day to prevent the risk of suffocation. Use a swaddle blanket as a sign of nap times or sleep times. Keep them free while they are playing.
3. When should I stop using a swaddle?
You should stop swaddling when your baby is trying to roll out (1). Some babies can try rolling out as early as two months, while others may take up to four months. So, check for the signs.
4. What’s the difference between a regular baby blanket and a swaddle blanket?
A swaddle blanket has winged sides to wrap around your baby conveniently. In contrast, the regular blanket is either square or rectangular, which may not be comfortable for swaddling your little one.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is a skilled writer and reviewer of baby, pregnancy, and nursing essentials. With numerous related articles to her name, she is well-versed with people’s requirements regarding baby necessities. In this list of the best swaddles for preemies, she has included products that are soft, durable, and easily washable, keeping you and your baby’s comfort in mind. Besides, Vibha has added a buying guide mentioning all the important factors you should consider when choosing a swaddle for preemies.
The Bottom Line
Preemies require swaddles that offer freedom of movement and are super-soft and gentle on the skin. Thus, it is essential you pay close attention to the material of the swaddle you purchase for your preemie. Those made with cotton, fleece, and spandex are considered good options as they are soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Additionally, consider the elasticity or stretch of the material to ensure it offers comfort. You may also opt for one that is machine-washable and comes with Velcro straps and zippers for convenience. We recommend the SwaddleMe Original Swaddle for its smooth texture and adjustable design and the Halo Sleepsack Micro-fleece Swaddle for its sleeveless design, which prevents overheating.
Infographic: How To Swaddle A Baby?
Swaddling helps your little one sleep peacefully as it mimics the mother’s womb. But remember, your baby should always sleep on their back when swaddled. To know more about the precautions to be taken when swaddling a baby, read the following infographic for a precise understanding. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Sleeping
https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/sleeping/gjnng8 - Swaddling: Is it Safe for Your Baby?
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Swaddling-Is-it-Safe.aspx - Swaddling a baby: the benefits, risks and seven safety tips
https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/slings-and-swaddling/swaddling-baby-benefits-risks-and-seven-safety-tips
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