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Help your child sleep peacefully throughout the night with the best swaddling blankets for babies. While nothing can replace the warmth of the mother’s body, swaddling blankets can help you mimic that. When your baby is sleep-deprived, they struggle to grow well, both mentally and physically. These mom-approved blankets from trusted brands can help maintain their sleeping patterns, and being swaddled allows your baby to feel comfortable and relaxed.
So, here is some much-needed information on how you can swaddle your baby appropriately to keep them warm and cozy. It would also keep them calm and let them self-soothe. Below are some tips on swaddling your little one and the safety precautions you need to follow before you make a purchase. So, read on to know more.
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Types Of Swaddle Blankets
There are several types of effective swaddle blankets. Below are some of the most common types.
- Traditional swaddle: It is typically a large-sized swaddle blanket made of thin fabric with sufficient stretchiness, such as cotton or bamboo. Muslin is also a common material used to make traditional swaddle blankets.
- Two-in-one swaddle: These swaddles have extra features to make your little one feel more comfortable. They allow you to snugly envelop the baby or keep their arms out with the help of Velcro straps or simple zippers that ensure their security.
7 Best Baby Swaddle Blankets In 2024
Swaddling blankets come in various materials. The best, however, is muslin or cotton. If you are on the lookout for a good swaddling blanket for your infant, your search ends now! Here are the best baby swaddle blankets to choose from:
1. Best Travel-Friendly: XMwealthy Newborn Plush Nursery Swaddle Blanket
The XMwealthy soft, lightweight, and wearable blanket is made of premium-quality polyester material, which is light and tender on the delicate skin of babies and is available in six cute colors. It is suitable for children up to six months old and has a windproof cap design, making it ideal for outdoors and travel. You can also use this mommy-approved swaddling wrap as a sleeping bag, stroller quilt, crib wrap, and pajamas.
Pros
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure
- Allows free feet movement
- Easy to wash
- Thick material for all-night warmth
Cons
- May run small for some
- Lint, hair, and fur may cling to it
"I gifted this blanket to my sister during her baby shower. Although the hood is slightly big, the adjustable size ensures the swaddle grows with the baby. The separate feet design is a genius idea as my niece loves to kick her little legs."
2. Best 100% Cotton Swaddling Blanket: Aden + Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets
Most new mothers swear by this product! These breathable swaddle blankets come in two sizes – 42” x 42” and 47” x 47”. So, make sure to order the right size. These essential cotton muslin swaddle blankets are light, yet they keep the little one warm. They are made of 100% cotton. The more you wash, the softer the blanket will become. Yes, these blankets are not the cutest in the market, but they do get the job done! Here’s a video to help you understand the product better and make an informed choice.
Pros
- Breathable fabric
- Boutique finish
- Machine-washable
- Soft on the skin
Cons
- May not endure frequent washes
- A little see-through
"I love this Aden & Anais muslin swaddle blanket as it is not only soft and lightweight but also aesthetically pleasing. The material might feel delicate, but it is perfect for swaddling. It has a pretty gender-neutral design, and the easily foldable design makes it a perfect travel companion."
Did you know?3. Best Three-Size Swaddling Blanket: Halo Sleepsack Swaddle
The Halo Sleepsack Swaddle comes in two varieties: 100% polyester version and 100% cotton version. They also come in three sizes: preemie, newborn and small. These effective swaddle sacks have a zipper and Velcro, making them easy to use.
If you are not used to the swaddling technique, the Halo Sleepsack Swaddle is the perfect for you! Watch this review video detailing a tester’s experience with using the secure swaddle blanket for her baby.
Pros
- Moisture wicking
- Easy adjustability
- Latex-free
- Lead-free
Cons
- Velcro may lose grip when used for long durations
- May not be suitable for summers
"I hesitated buying the Halo swaddle due to its size, which is on the smaller side. But it has exceeded my expectations. Its ability to swaddle with arms confined or free has been a pleasant discovery. My baby adores the fleece, and I appreciate how well it washes."
XMwealthy Newborn Plush Nursery Swaddle Blanket Best Travel-Friendly | Aden + Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets Best 100% Cotton Swaddling Blanket | Halo Sleepsack Swaddle Best Three-Size Swaddling Blanket | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Light Blue | Around the World | - |
| Material | Plush | Cotton | - |
| Weight | 7.7 ounces | 3.52 ounces | 12 ounces |
| Dimensions | 27"L x 24.4"W | 120"L x 120"W | 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 7,080 | 25 | 2,121 |
| Price | $17.99 | $16.95 | $29.99 |
4. Best Easy-To-Use Swaddling Blanket: Summer Infant SwaddleMe
Just like the Halo, the Summer Infant SwaddleMe also comes with a Velcro design. But the one thing most mothers love about these swaddles is their design. If you are looking for colorful designs, go for the Summer Infant SwaddleMe. The set features one plain and one baby-friendly patterned swaddle blanket. If you want a secure swaddle that is easy to use and looks cute, this is your best bet! This product testing video from a reviewer will tell you more about the features of this Velcro swaddle blanket.
Pros
- Attractive design
- Available in two sizes
- Feature patterns
- Soft material
Cons
- May stretch out with wear
"I've used these swaddles. They are comfortably lightweight and soften with each wash. Although the Velcro tends to stick to my shirt, it's quite manageable. Summer-friendly and cozy enough for cooler nights, they make my babies sleep without interruptions."
5. Best Easy-Wrap Swaddling Blanket: Miracle Blanket
If you are a swaddling pro, this product will ‘speak’ to you. The Miracle Blanket swaddle does not use any zipper or Velcro. Instead, they use a unique and complicated wrapping process. The wrapping process involves elaborate steps and may seem confusing to some. Most mothers have only good things to say about the Miracle swaddling blanket. The mommy-approved blanket keeps wiggly infants or babies safe and warm!
Pros
- Available in different colors
- Imported fabric
- One size fits all
- Twitching-resistant
Cons
- May take time to swaddle
- Seams may not be well-stitched
"I've found this cotton swaddle nicely crafted without being too thick or thin. It has a handy pouch for the baby's feet and arm pieces that tuck under the baby's back. Although swaddling the baby at night was slightly difficult, practice made it easier. It has been able to comfortably accommodate my growing baby until now."
Do remember6. Best Breathable: Pondering Pine Organic Baby Muslin Swaddle Blanket
Made of 70 percent bamboo and 30 percent organic cotton, the organic muslin blanket by Pondering Pine is loved and trusted by moms and dads. It offers optimal comfort and breathability and is free of harmful chemicals, making it baby-friendly and suitable for your child’s delicate skin. These predominantly bamboo-based traditional swaddle blankets measure 47x47in. The organic cotton swaddles come in a pack of two and are soft, making a lovely baby shower gift.
Pros
- Non-toxic dyes
- Travel-friendly
- Durable even after multiple washes
- Hypoallergenic
- Available in various color combinations
Cons
- May be thinner than expected
- May not be stretchable enough
"I love the size and versatility of this swaddle. It's large enough to serve as a cover, swaddle, receiving blanket, and burp cloth. I regret not getting this lovely swaddle for my older children. The soft fabric washes up nicely, and the prints make it super photogenic."
7. Best Easy-To-Clean: SwaddleMe Original Swaddle
The SwaddleMe’s soft and gender-neutral swaddle blankets are available in a pack of three. It is made of breathable cotton for comfort and is suitable for babies up to three months. The secure wrapdesign of these mommy-approved swaddles for newborns creates a womb-like environment for the baby to sleep and relax peacefully without any disturbance.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Available in several colors and sizes
- Hip-safe design
- Allows your child to move naturally
Cons
- May shrink upon washing
- May run small for some
"The multipack ensures that I always have an extra swaddle in hand. Although some swaddles may be on the smaller side, the pretty colors and the soft fabric more than make up for it. These are perfect for half-swaddling my baby during the day."
What Is A Swaddling Blanket?
So, what are these swaddling blankets? The blankets recreate the environment that was in the womb. They give the baby the perfect warmth and comfort needed to sleep better. Plus, you have peace of mind.
Why Is Swaddling Important?
Besides what we did mention above, let us quickly check these points out (1).
- Keeps the baby comfortable and calm by giving him a womb-like experience and atmosphere.
- Place the arms tightly towards the sides thus preventing a startling reflex, which not just wakes babies up from their slumber but could also increase the heart rate. As the arms are held close together even if the baby gets startled, he wouldn’t wake up suddenly.
- Maintains the right temperature, much like the baby was used to in the womb. Swaddling blankets made of muslin or cotton cloths ensure good air circulation and the right temperature.
- Prevents suffocation unlike loose materials or blankets, which could lead to Sudden Infant Death.
Swaddle blankets are important, but what is equally important is the process of using them. Learning to swaddle your baby could take a few (read two to three attempts). You have to ensure that the baby is comfortable while you’re swaddling him. We know you will surely appreciate some help here.
How To Swaddle Your Baby?
While this isn’t rocket science, you have to consider a few things when swaddling the baby: their comfort is number one on the list, their willingness to be swaddled is number two, and then the material and thickness of the blanket. Let’s know how to swaddle a baby.
1. Choose your blanket
- Consider the shape (should be square), size (preferably 40×40”), material, and elasticity of the baby-safe blanket.
- The blanket could be a little (but not very) stretchable. This would help you wrap the baby nicely.
2. Fold the blanket
- Fold the blanket in a diamond shape from the top corner of the blanket.
- The fold should be as long as your baby is.
3. Place the baby on the blanket
- Once the fold is made, place the baby on it.
- Make sure that the baby’s neck and face are above the fold.
- Support the neck while you are swaddling the baby.
4. Fold the baby’s arms
- One way could be to hold the baby’s arms around his sides. This way, the arms would outline the baby’s sides.
- Another way is to fold the hands over the tummy to replicate the posture in the womb.
- Whatever way you use, make sure that the baby is comfortable.
5. Wrap a side
- Hold the blanket on the side of one arm and tuck it in the downward direction under the fist of the other arm.
- The blanket should be tucked in such a way that it holds the baby’s arm in place.
6. Close the bottom
- Once one arm is adjusted and swaddled, close the bottom of the swaddle.
- The section, which is left at the bottom, should be folded towards the upward direction near the baby’s neck. The side should be the one where you just tucked the baby.
7. Wrap the second arm
- Just like the first arm, adjust the other arm and wrap it around.
- This should come over the fold that you made from the bottom of the swaddle.
- Cross it on the downward opposite side.
8. Tuck the left over
- The left-over blanket from the second arm should be flipped over from the legs to the top in such a way that it forms a V-neck.
- Tuck it under the shoulder of the first arm. You may have to lift the baby up a bit to complete the final tuck of the swaddle.
Things to remember
- Give the baby enough leg space and make sure that the baby can move their legs inside the swaddle. Bad or tight swaddling could sometimes lead to hip dysplasia if the swaddle does not have enough room for the baby’s feet.
- Do not tighten the swaddle. A tighter swaddle does not mean the baby is comfortable. You should only make the baby feel warm, not suffocated.
, a mommy and motherhood, home, and lifestyle content creator, says, “Swaddles that are too tight or too loose can restrict your baby’s breathing. Thus, you may choose swaddles that feature Velcro or straps. These are easy to use and can also save you so much time and energy, especially at night.”
- Once the swaddle is done, check for air circulation and monitor the baby’s temperature.
For How Long Can I Swaddle My Baby?
It is best to swaddle your baby until three or four months, but some parents prefer to do it for a good nine months.
While most doctors recommend swaddling until four to six months, they also agree that there is no harm in extending it. The idea is to make your baby feel relaxed and comfortable while sleeping.
Once your baby gets used to sleeping without a swaddle, then you can do away with it. And how would you know when to wean your baby off a swaddle? The best way is to put one arm off the swaddle. If your baby isn’t sleeping well and seems irritable, they may not be ready yet. So wrap the baby back. After nine months, make conscious attempts to wean the baby off the swaddle and try out safe sleep practices.
When Should You Avoid Swaddling?
Swaddling is not suitable in all cases. You need to avoid swaddling at times:
- Hip dysplasia is an abnormal bone formation in the hip section. Because of the abnormality, the bone does not fit well in the socket. If your baby has this, do not swaddle him. Check with your doctor and make sure that the baby is swaddle-ready.
- Avoid swaddling when the baby is not sleeping but trying to play or move. While this may seem logical, the idea is to swaddle the baby only when you are trying to calm him or put him to bed.
Risks Of Swaddling
Swaddling is comfortable both for the baby and you, but it is not free of risks. This does not mean that we are discouraging you from swaddling your baby, but we just want you to be more careful. The two major risks involved are:
1. SIDS
While swaddling prevents Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), it may also promote it. Confused? If you do not swaddle the baby properly, and the folds are too close to the baby’s neck (thereby obstructing the windpipe), there are chances of SIDS. So make sure that you’re swaddling the baby correctly and leaving enough room near the neck region.
2. Lack of “arousal”
A lot of babies lose their ability of arousal if they are swaddled for too long. This means they wouldn’t know when to wake up. While many parents want their babies to get a good sleep, babies should be swaddled for a limited time only.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I swaddle a baby tightly?
Tightly swaddling your baby may cause hip problems. It can lead to hip dysplasia or hip dislocation. Your baby should have enough room in the swaddle to bend their legs up and out (2).
2. What’s the difference between a regular baby blanket and a swaddle blanket?
A regular baby blanket comes in a square or rectangular shape, while a swaddle blanket is more stretchable and has wings that can be wrapped around your baby comfortably. Swaddle blankets are suitable for infants under two months.
3. When should I stop using a swaddle? How?
Stop using swaddles when your baby tries to roll to the sides (2). Start by keeping one arm free and move on to the next arm. After some nights, stop using the swaddle.
4. What material is best for a swaddle blanket?
Breathable materials like cotton and muslin are suitable for a swaddle blanket. These materials help with overheating.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our experienced writer and reviewer of baby products, has prepared this list of the best swaddle blankets for your baby and mentioned the pros and cons of each product to help you make the right choice. These tried-and-tested options have been handpicked based on aspects such as the quality of the fabric, insulation, design, and overall construction. They have also been used by buyers who gave them good reviews and ratings so you can be assured of the product’s quality and proven performance.
The Bottom Line
Swaddle blankets are extremely handy for parents, as they help children sleep better. They mimic the warmth and comfort of the womb and a mother’s embrace to help soothe them to sleep. When choosing the best swaddle blankets, you must ensure they are made of comfortable and breathable fabrics such as muslin and cotton. They should also have enough space for movement and be travel-friendly and easy to clean and maintain. Besides these, you should also look at the design, style, and size. Keeping these factors in mind, we recommend the stylish Aden + Anais Muslin Swaddle Blanket, which is known for its breathability and softness, and the Halo Sleepsack Swaddle blanket, which is super easy to maintain, as it features a zipper and a Velcro closure.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Swaddling A Baby?
Swaddling is a time-honored practice of securely wrapping babies in a blanket to promote comfort and relaxation. It helps create a cozy environment, mimicking the feeling of being in the womb while providing a sense of security for infants. To understand the nuanced benefits of swaddling, refer to the infographic below.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Keeping Your Baby Warm.
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=90&contentid=P02425 - Swaddling: Is it Safe for Your Baby?
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Swaddling-Is-it-Safe.aspx
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