Baby swaddling - how it's done

Swaddling — how it's done

A square blanket is best for swaddling. With rectangular blankets one part must be folded over, which can make the blanket too bulky. Spread the blanket out, fold one corner inwards and place the baby on it with their head and shoulders resting on it.
Fold the bottom corner of the blanket over the baby so it covers the legs and torso; fold the tip of the corner again if necessary. Caution — the baby's mouth and chin must always remain free.
First pull one side of the blanket snugly across the baby's body and, if necessary, tuck it slightly under the body to secure it. Then pull the other side over and wrap the baby with it.
Babies who are swaddled usually fall asleep faster and wake up less often. But make sure your baby does not remain in the same position for too long and that the sleeping area is not too warm.

Swaddling – possible, but not always necessary

Swaddling is a method to help very unsettled babies or babies with colic to fall asleep and stay asleep. Many midwives recommend swaddling for the first months and when circumstances suggest it.

Paediatricians are more critical of swaddling. They see the risk of spinal and hip problems and a flattening of the back of the head, because the baby is not in the foetal position as in the womb, but lies flat with head and back. In addition, they fear the risk of overheating from the tightly wrapped blanket.

Whether you swaddle your baby, is up to you – children who do not cry or fret beyond a 'normal' degree do not necessarily need to be swaddled. And for babies with an existing hip dysplasia who need to be wrapped with their legs apart, swaddling is not recommended. In addition, some babies simply do not like being swaddled and protest loudly.

The baby wrap – a good alternative to swaddling

Babies who don't like being swaddled may settle in a baby wrap, snug against a parent's body. The children are just as 'wrapped up' as in a swaddling cloth, but in a slightly more rounded posture and with the comforting body warmth of mum or dad. In addition, parents can keep their baby in full view and will notice straight away if it feels uncomfortable.

Checklist – how to swaddle correctly

Square blanket or a cloth
Thin cotton blankets or specialised swaddling cloths are best
A onesie or pyjamas are sufficient – the blanket will keep the baby warm
Do not keep the legs fully straightened — allow natural flexion to help prevent hip dysplasia
Ensure the swaddle blanket is wrapped snugly
Leave mouth and chin completely uncovered
Swaddle only for short rest periods — not a long-term solution
Consider leaving the arms free when the baby shows an increasing need to move
Stop swaddling after 2–3 months
Not suitable for babies with hip dysplasia