Troubleshooting the Swaddle Blanket
Swaddling can seem so simple, especially when your little bundle of joy, all wrapped up, is handed to you by a skilled nurse. But how do you replicate the tight cozy wrapping job when you’re at home at 2:30 a.m.? When should you do it? Why does it work?
Swaddling is a comfort tool for helping babies adjust to the world outside the womb. The ‘4th trimester’ or first three months after babies are born, they crave the familiar environment of being inside their mother. In fact, if the human pelvis could accommodate it, babies truly need the extra three months of development to adjust inside! Swaddling replicates the tight space of their former home, and calms a baby.
Swaddle not working? Let’s troubleshoot!
“My baby doesn’t like the swaddle, should I stop?”
If you think your baby doesn’t care for swaddling, try a few different things to see if they settle. While it’s true that a majority of babies love to be swaddled, there are a few that don’t. Try the tips below to get swaddling to work for you.
Get the swaddle tight.
It may seem too much, but tighter is better than looser! When you’re wrapping the passes of fabric over baby, make sure they are as tight as possible, both for the feeling of closeness and for making sure baby doesn’t break out of the swaddle.
Try a Different Swaddling Technique
While a traditional swaddle has both passes going over baby’s arms, and the fabric from the legs being tucked in at the chin, some babies prefer their legs free. Some babies like their hands up by their face but the startle reflex keeps them awake. It’s possible to swaddle baby with their arms up but secured in passes of fabric to keep them from waking themselves.
Use a Break-Free Swaddle
While fabric alone often gets the job done, there are wonderful swaddle blankets on the market that make life easier in the middle of the night during diaper changes. Many have velcro, or weighted sections to keep baby from escaping. SwaddleMe and Halo make wonderful swaddles that keep baby secure, as well as the Woombie.
Couple Swaddling with another Sleep-Inducing Element
Some babies need to associate the safe comfort of the swaddle with other calming, or sleepy time cues, such as white noise, movement or nursing to sleep. The combination only reinforce the womb environment simulation and help to quiet baby.
Is Baby Too Old?
Once out of the ‘4th trimester’ many babies begin to fight the swaddle as they gain more mobility and are able to lift their head, roll and stretch. If at this age your baby begins to fight the swaddle, start to discontinue its use. First, swaddle baby with arms and legs free, then remove the swaddle completely, as your baby might be ready to move on!
If all of the swaddling moves leave you feeling dizzy, don't despair. Our postpartum team of doulas are infant care specialists and can assist you in finding the right fit for your baby. Your partner can become a swaddle pro at one of our happy hour classes, which highlight the benefits of swaddling and baby soothing techniques.
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