You must have seen your little cherub in the hospital wrapped in a neat little package with just the head poking. That’s because the nurses know the comfiest part for the baby is a swaddle. One of the sweetest and sometimes trickiest tasks with your little bundle of joy is swaddling. There are various ways to swaddle a newborn for sleep. If you are looking for options regarding swaddling your baby with arms out, or looking specifically at how to swaddle a newborn in our desi style, you have landed at the right spot.
Why Swaddle Your Newborn?
Swaddling gives babies the feeling of being snug and secure, similar to being in your womb. They are used to the warmth of the womb, so a swaddle helps them feel snug and comforting. Moreover, swaddling reduces their startle reflex (you know, those sudden jerky movements that babies randomly do despite being fast asleep), and helps them sleep better and longer. Better sleep for your baby means better sleep for you, something every new mom desperately needs!
Nintara Baby swaddle wraps are lovingly made from certified organic cotton, grown and sourced directly from sustainable farms. The cotton is natural, breathable, and incredibly soft and gentle on the delicate skin of babies.
How to Swaddle a Newborn for Sleep
Here’s a simple method that many mothers may find helpful:
Step 1: Getting the swaddle ready
Pick a soft, breathable organic cotton or muslin cloth. It's gentle on your baby's skin, perfect for India's varying climate, and easy to manage. Now, lay your baby’s swaddle flat on the bed or any flat surface, shaping it like a diamond. Make sure one corner points upwards, then fold that top corner down.
Step 2: Lay your baby on the swaddle
Gently place your baby face-up onto the swaddle. Her head should rest just above the folded edge, and her feet should point down towards the bottom corner.
Step 3: Wrap the first side
Carefully straighten your baby's left arm down by her side. Then, take the left side of the swaddle and bring it across her left arm and chest. Tuck this edge gently under her right arm and around her back. At this point, her left arm will be wrapped in, but her right arm stays free.
Step 4: Fold the bottom part up
Take the bottom corner of the swaddle and gently lift it over your baby’s body, tucking it neatly under the fold beneath her chin. Now straighten her right arm down alongside her body, just like you did with the left. Remember, the wrap should be snug and secure.
Step 5: Complete the swaddle
Lastly, take the right side of the swaddle, wrap it across your baby’s body, and tuck it securely under her left side. Any leftover fabric at the bottom can be twisted and tucked underneath her. Double-check that your baby feels cosy, making sure it is not too loose or too tight.
Your baby is now swaddled and ready for peaceful sleep! This style provides the traditional snug comfort many babies love, making them feel safe and relaxed.
How to Swaddle a Newborn with Arms Out
Probably after a month or so, some babies enjoy the cosiness of swaddling but prefer having their arms free to move. Here's how to swaddle with arms out:
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Lay your baby on the swaddle cloth with their arms resting comfortably by their sides or slightly bent.
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Wrap one side of the swaddle securely across your baby's torso, leaving the arm free.
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Repeat with the other side, ensuring a snug fit around the body but keeping the arms uncovered.
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Finish by folding up the bottom corner loosely, allowing for easy hip movement.
This method is ideal for babies who like to suck their fingers or feel more comfortable when their hands are free.
Essential Tips for Successful Swaddling
Here are some essential tips that you must know to swaddle your little bub carefully:
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Safety First: Always lay your baby on their back while swaddled to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
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Avoid Overheating: Especially important in warmer months. Check your baby regularly. The skin should feel warm but not sweaty or overly hot.
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Know When to Stop: Once your baby starts to roll over independently, typically around 2 to 4 months, it's time to transition out of swaddling.
Troubleshooting swaddling problem
If your baby seems uncomfortable or isn’t sleeping well while swaddled, here are some common swaddling challenges and tips to address them:
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Problem: Baby keeps breaking free
Possible Causes: The swaddle may be too loose, or the baby is becoming more active and starting to roll.
Solutions: Try a swaddle with Velcro or zipper closures for extra security. If the baby is rolling over, transition to an arms-free sleep sack.
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Problem: Baby is overheated
Possible Causes: Either the swaddle material is too thick or the baby is overdressed.
Solutions: Use lightweight, breathable fabrics like organic cotton or muslin.
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Problem: Baby Cries When Swaddled
Possible Causes: Baby doesn’t like the swaddling position, or the swaddle may be too tight or too loose.
Solutions: Try different swaddling techniques (e.g. arms up vs arms down).
Why should you swaddle babies?
Swaddling offers several advantages for your baby, and some of them are listed below:
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Swaddling maintains warmth during sleep, helping your baby stay snug and comfortable.
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It reduces the startle reflex.
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Swaddling creates a sense of security by mimicking the snug, familiar feeling of the womb.
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Swaddling soothes and calms your baby, which may be especially helpful during bouts of colic.
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It provides comfort during distressing moments, such as vaccinations or other minor procedures.
Mama, remember, swaddling is not only about technique but it is also about nurturing your baby’s sense of security and comfort. Trust your instincts, stay relaxed, and soon you will be a swaddling pro. After all, generations of our mothers before us have done this beautifully, and so will you. Enjoy these precious early days. Happy swaddling!
Nintara Baby products offer gentle, non-toxic, and high-quality essentials perfect for your little one’s daily care. Want to gift a new mom and make her happy? Check out Nintara Baby's curated collection of luxurious baby gift sets online. Gift these thoughtful items to new parents and celebrate their precious moments with love and care.
