Swaddling with Different Materials: Muslin, Receiving Blankets, and More

When looking at your baby or newborn babies, you must have seen a little one all snuggled up in a neat little wrap, the arms tucked in, legs cosy, and looking like a tiny burrito. That’s swaddling for you! But what exactly should you swaddle with? Muslin? A receiving blanket? Something fancy your mother-in-law has brought? Not all swaddles and equal, and that’s why read about different swaddling materials and what’s best for your baby.

1. Swaddling Your Superstar

Swaddling has been around for ages—since the days when cave-babies were wrapped in animal skins, right up to now, with Instagrammable muslin wraps in pastel colours. The point is simple: wrapping a baby up snugly helps them feel secure, mimicking the cosy confines of the womb. For many babies, it means better sleep, fewer startles, and a calmer start to life. But the big question remains—what should you actually use to swaddle? Here’s a lowdown:

Muslin: The Modern Favourite

Muslin wraps are like the superstar of the swaddling world these days. They are made of finely-woven cotton, so they’re lightweight, breathable, and incredibly soft. Why parents love muslin, you ask? Muslin swaddles are breathable, which means there is no risk of the baby overheating. If you see, our Nintara Baby’s muslin swaddles are designed for superior softness, versatility, and style, becoming one of the essentials for modern parenting.

Muslin’s light weave means it keeps your baby snug, but not stiflingly hot. That’s a big plus, especially if you’re in warmer climates or your little one is a heat generator. And if your baby’s a bit of a wriggler, muslin’s slight stretch helps you get a good, secure wrap without feeling like you are straitjacketing them.

On the flipside

Muslin is a lightweight and breathable fabric, making it ideal for hot and humid weather, daily use, and gifting to new parents. However, since it's quite thin, you may need to add an extra layer during harsh winters, and poor-quality muslin can lose its shape over time.

2. Receiving Blankets: The Classic Choice

Ah, the good old receiving blanket. You have probably been gifted a dozen of these at your baby shower if you are a parent. They are usually a little thicker than muslin, often made of flannel or cotton, and come in all sorts of patterns. The perks of receiving blankets include swaddling for spit-up emergencies. These are cosy and great for cooler weather and are durable as they survive countless washes (and let’s face it, babies create a lot of laundry).

On the flipside

Remember one thing: receiving blankets don’t always have as much stretch as muslin. This means you might need to be a bit more precise with your wrapping, or your little ninja might make a break for it during nappy changes. Some are also thicker, so keep an eye out in warmer months, as we know no one likes a grumpy, overheated baby.

3. Old Cotton Saris: Grandma’s Secret Weapon

No discussion about baby care in India is complete without mentioning sarees. Many families repurpose soft, old cotton saris for swaddling. They are cool, breathable, and have that comforting, “home” smell. It’s also eco-friendly and cost-effective. Just make sure the saree is washed properly, and there are no loose threads.

The best part about these dadi-nani ki saris is that they are 100% cotton. You are recycling an old sari or dupatta, which means you are being kind to nature by repurposing. A sari as a swaddle is large, so you can adjust the size as your baby grows. To top it all, there is a sentimental value attached. There’s something sweet about wrapping your child in a piece of your own clothing.

On the flipside

Some saris are too thick or stiff, making wrapping tricky. Unless you hem the edges, threads might come loose. Also, okay, it may not look as cute as those printed, store-bought wraps!

4. Ready-made swaddle wraps: Modern Twist

Readymade swaddle wraps are a modern solution for parents who want convenience and ease when swaddling their babies. These wraps usually come with velcro or zippers, so all you need to do is place your baby inside and secure it—no tricky folding or tucking required. 

They offer a secure and comfortable fit, making them a great option for new parents who may feel unsure about traditional swaddling techniques. Plus, with their stylish prints and colours, they’re a popular choice for gifts and busy families looking for a fuss-free swaddling option.

On the flipside

However, they are generally more expensive than regular cloth wraps and have a limited lifespan, as babies outgrow them quickly. Unlike multipurpose muslin or cotton cloths, readymade swaddle wraps can't really be reused for other needs once your baby stops swaddling. Despite these limitations, they remain a handy choice for parents seeking simplicity and peace of mind, especially during those hectic early months.

Here’s a quick comparison table

Why Choose Nintara Baby Swaddles

Nintara Baby’s swaddles are lovingly made from certified organic cotton, sourced straight from Indian farms. This farm-to-home approach highlights our commitment to purity and quality at every step. The cotton is completely natural, breathable, and exceptionally soft—perfect for delicate baby skin, while also being durable enough for everyday use. Our swaddles truly represent what our brand stands for: a modern, caring touch combined with the timeless artistry of Indian craftsmanship.

Swaddling is just one of the many things you will figure out on this parenting journey. Use what works for you, be open to experimenting, and always keep baby’s safety and comfort first. So, what’s your family’s favourite swaddling material? Give it a try and enjoy those precious cuddles. They grow up way too fast!

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.