The how-to and why-to guide to swaddling your little one. The number one item that should be on every nursery registry is a swaddle blanket. Throughout the years, it's proven that swaddling actually works. Research has found that the first 4-5 months of a baby's life, they will experience the startle reflex, in other works, where legs and arms jerk in response to the sensation of falling, which disrupts them during the light sleep phase. By swaddling baby, it restricts your baby's arms and legs from jerking, mimics the tight confines of the womb, and prevents SIDS. A lot of parents get overwhelmed when given the square swaddle blanket. Don't worry we have a step-by-step guide on how to swaddle baby into a little baby burrito.
Step 1: Prep the Diamond
Take the swaddle blanket and turn it so that it looks like a diamond instead of a square. Fold the top corner down, then place the back of baby's neck on the fold.Step 2: Right Tuck, Left Tuck
*Warning: baby will wiggle Hold baby's right arm flat at their side. Pull the left corner of the blanket over their right arm and across their body, then turn under their arm and roll them onto their left side to warp whatever is remaining under their back. Hold baby's left arm down and pull the bottom corner up over their left shoulder. Tuck any extra material around their left arm. Be sure to leave enough room at the bottom of the blanket to allow baby to bend their legs.Step 3: The Perfect Swaddle
Bring the loose right corner straight out, pull it across baby's front, and roll them onto their right side so you can wrap the corner all the way around their back and tuck. Viola! You've successfully got the perfect swaddle.
A Modern Nursery favorite is the UPPAbaby Knit Blanket. This gorgeous knit baby blanket will keep your baby warm and content, perfect for both swaddling and snuggles! Keep one in your nursery, one for your stroller or car seat, and one at grandma's house — Just in case!
Swaddling might seem like a daunting task, but with practice you'll have baby swaddle and sleeping in no time! Check back here for more parenting tips, DIYs, and nursery inspiration.
