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The art of swaddling goes back almost as far as the beginning of human history. Its ability to soothe and calm babies
has made it a popular practice across the world. Scientific evidence has shown that swaddling helps babies to have
a more peaceful, less interrupted sleep because it encourages them to sleep on their backs, while keeping them from
moving their arms around and waking themselves. It is also said that swaddling comforts babies because it recreates
the feeling of being in the safe and cozy environment of the womb.
Swaddle blankets are the salt of the nursery. Use them for swaddling, holding, warming, sleeping, changing, and playing.
Never place a blanket on top of a new baby while she is sleeping, as it is dangerous and can interfere with her breathing-swaddling
is a safe way to keep your baby cozy and on cloud 9.
Here are two of our favorite kinds of swaddle blankets:
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| Muslin |
Cotton Flannel |
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One of the world's oldest woven fabrics, muslin has been treasured for centuries for its ability to protect
against both heat and cold. It's lightweight, breathable, and both soft and strong at the same time.
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A flannel swaddle blanket has a heavier weight than muslin, and is great for all year round on those cooler days.
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How to Swaddle Like a Pro... in 5 easy steps
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Swaddling isn't for everyone-some babies prefer to have their arms free, and may find this position uncomfortable.
But give it a try, and find out! The results could amaze you.
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| STEP 1 |
STEP 2 |
STEP 3 |
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| Lay the swaddle blanket in a diamond shape. Fold the top corner down. Place your baby in the center. |
Place your baby's right arm slightly bent at the elbow flat against their body. Take the left side of the swaddle and
bring it across your baby's chest. Ensure their arm is securely under the fabric. Tuck the edge of the swaddle under
their body to ensure a secure swaddle.
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Fold the bottom of the blanket over your baby's feet and tuck it behind their shoulder.
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| STEP 4 |
STEP 5 |
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Place your baby's left arm slightly bent at the elbow against their body, take the right side of the swaddle
and bring it across your baby's chest. Tuck the excess fabric underneath your baby to secure the swaddle.
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Swaddled and secure, you will most probably be looking at one happy baby.
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The breakdown: What you want to consider and features to look for
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Size- Choosing the right size for your baby is key. While it may be tempting to buy the largest size blanket since newborns grow so fast, consider that the
swaddle has to fit tightly to be effective. Additionally, many parents will only swaddle in the first few months when colic and sleeplessness can be a problem,
so your baby might never need a bigger size.
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Material- Swaddle blankets come in a variety of fabrics: muslin, bamboo, flannel, and fleece, to name a few. In warm weather, opt for a lighter and more
breathable material such as muslin to prevent overheating, a risk associated with SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Also look for a blanket that is soft and
flexible, so that your baby can stretch without undoing the swaddle.
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Ingredients- Blankets made with conventional cotton often contain artificial fibers, dyes, and chemicals that are harmful for a baby's sensitive skin and
development. Be sure to choose blankets made with organic cotton and materials, the healthiest option for your baby and the environment.
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