Melbourne Midwifery

Swaddling a newborn is a common practice that has been around for centuries. It involves wrapping a newborn in a soft, snug blanket to help them feel secure and comfortable. While it may seem like a simple task, there are important considerations to keep in mind when swaddling your newborn. In this article, we will discuss the best ways to swaddle a newborn, whether or not you should swaddle your newborn at night, and how many hours a newborn should be swaddled.

What is the proper way to swaddle a newborn?

The proper way to swaddle a newborn involves following a few key steps to ensure that your

baby is safe and comfortable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to swaddle your newborn:

Step 1: Start with a soft, breathable blanket that is large enough to wrap your baby snugly.

Step 2: Lay the blanket flat on a surface with one corner folded down.

Step 3: Place your baby on the blanket with their head above the folded corner.

Step 4: Straighten your baby’s left arm and wrap the left side of the blanket over their body and tuck it snugly under their right arm and behind their back.

Step 5: Fold the bottom of the blanket up and tuck it snugly under your baby’s chin.

Step 6: Straighten your baby’s right arm and wrap the right side of the blanket over their body and tuck it under their left arm and behind their back.

It’s important to remember that the swaddle should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the blanket and your baby’s chest. Additionally, your baby’s legs should be able to move freely and their hips should be able to flex and move naturally.

Should I swaddle my newborn at night?

Swaddling your newborn at night can help them feel secure and calm, which can lead to better sleep for both you and your baby. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when swaddling your baby at night.

First, it’s important to choose the right blanket. Use a lightweight, breathable blanket to prevent your baby from overheating. Additionally, make sure that your baby is sleeping on their back and that their face is clear of the blanket.

Second, make sure that your baby’s swaddle is not too tight. A swaddle that is too tight can restrict your baby’s movement and lead to hip dysplasia. Your baby’s hips should be able to move freely and naturally.

Finally, it’s important to monitor your baby while they sleep to ensure that they are safe and comfortable. If your baby seems uncomfortable or restless, it may be time to adjust their swaddle or try a different sleep position.

How many hours should a newborn be swaddled?

Swaddling can be a helpful tool for calming your newborn and helping them sleep better, but it’s important to remember that babies need time to move and stretch their limbs. As a general rule, newborns should be swaddled for no more than two to three hours at a time.

Additionally, it’s important to give your baby plenty of opportunities to move their arms and legs throughout the day. As your baby grows and develops, they will become more mobile and may not enjoy being swaddled as much. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust their swaddling routine as needed.

To sum it up, swaddling can be a useful technique to soothe and improve your newborn’s sleep. However, it’s crucial to follow the proper swaddling procedures to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort. You can swaddle your baby at night, but it’s essential to select a suitable blanket, keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, and ensure the swaddle is not overly tight. Additionally, it’s recommended to swaddle your newborn for no more than two to three hours at a time, and allow them plenty of opportunities to move their limbs throughout the day. Always pay attention to your baby’s needs and adjust their swaddling routine accordingly.