HealthPartners - Taking care of you and your newborn

Swaddling

Swaddling refers to wrapping your newborn tightly in a blanket. It is a simple, proven way to help your baby feel safe and warm as they adjust to life outside the womb. For your baby, being swaddled reminds them of the calm and closeness they felt inside your uterus.

SCAN + PLAY

SWADDLING IN 6 EASY STEPS

Straighten the baby’s left arm, wrap the left corner over the body, and tuck the blanket between the right arm and right side of the body. It should make a “V.”

Spread a lightweight cotton or linen blanket out flat, with one corner folded down. Choose the right size for your baby.

Lay the baby faceup on the blanket, with their head above the folded corner.

Tuck the baby’s right arm down, fold the right corner over the body and under the left side of the body. A small flap should come down to their upper chest to form the other half of the “V.”

Fold or twist the bottom of the blanket loosely and tuck it under one side of the baby.

Make sure the baby’s hips can move and the blanket is not pulled too tight. Wearable swaddle wraps are also available.

Unswaddled Time Be sure your baby also spends time unswaddled. When awake, babies need time to move, wiggle, touch, and spend time skin-to-skin. These activities are important to their physical, mental, and emotional development.

TIPS

Safe swaddling tips • You should be able to put at least 2-3 fingers between the baby’s chest and the blanket • Babies should be able to bend their legs freely and with ease while swaddled • Some experts recommend swaddling with arms by sides and others with hands by face

• Never put or allow a swaddled baby to sleep on their stomach • Consider using a recommended sleep sack for extra warmth instead of a blanket in the crib • Stop swaddling when your baby starts to roll to their side—around 2 months

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care