Swaddling refers to wrapping your baby tightly in a blanket to prevent their startle reflex from waking them up. It mimics being in the womb by keeping your baby warm and calm.
Swaddles are a must during the newborn phase for most babies. But it may take some trial and error to discover which type your baby prefers.
I would recommend borrowing, shopping second hand and adding these items to your registry. Swaddles are used for such a short amount of time so it is a perfect item to purchase second hand!
There are two main types of swaddles – blanket and swaddle sacks.
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1.Blanket:
A traditional swaddle. It is a large thin blanket that you use to wrap your baby snuggly. You want to make sure the swaddle is secure so it doesn’t come loose and become a choking hazard for your baby.
A benefit to this type of swaddle is that they can be used for other purposes after swaddling.
Here are a few traditional swaddles you can add to your registry to try out.
My baby did not like the traditional swaddle, and to be honest we were not the best at wrapping her in a traditional swaddle.
When we did use a swaddle, it was usually a swaddle sack.
2.Swaddling sack:
The modern swaddle. Swaddling sacks are secured by a zipper, Velcro or sometimes both. Some parents choose a sack over a blanket because it requires less work and is a more secure fit. Most sacks only require you to slip your baby in, and then velcro or zip it up. No folding or wrapping necessary.
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Here are some modern swaddles you can try.
You will not know what works and what your baby prefers until you try them out. But before you buy and try every swaddle, consider borrowing from a friend, or shopping second hand for them. Babies only use them for a short time, so you can usually find them in like-new condition.
