Swaddling has been around for centuries, and its popularity is still growing. It's a technique used to keep babies feeling secure, safe, and warm. When you bring your baby home from the hospital, one of the first things you might do is swaddle them. Babies feel comforted when they are swaddled because it mimics the feeling of being in the womb. It keeps them warm and secure, which can help to soothe a crying baby and even help them sleep more easily. If you're a new parent, you may be wondering why swaddling your baby is so beneficial. Let's look at the reasons why babies love to be swaddled and how it can help make life easier for parents.
Feeling Secure and Contained
Babies feel secure when they are swaddled because it recreates the feeling of being inside the womb. The snugness of a swaddle helps them feel contained and calm, making it easier for them to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer—which is great news for tired parents!
Swaddling also helps to prevent sudden movements that can startle your baby awake during sleep times. Plus, since babies can’t move their arms in a swaddle, they won’t be able to scratch themselves or accidentally hit themselves in the face while sleeping. This sense of security creates an overall feeling of well-being that makes both mom and baby happy.
The Right Temperature
When babies are born their body temperature is not yet regulated, so keeping your little one cozy with a swaddle helps maintain the right temperature while they sleep (without getting too hot). Babies will often wake up if they become too cold or too hot during sleep times—so having the proper level of warmth from being securely wrapped up helps keep them sleeping peacefully throughout the night.
A Sense of Comfort and Familiarity
Swaddling can also provide comfort for your baby by creating a familiar environment even when away from home or in a new place. It mimics how mom or dad would hold their little one close to their chest which makes them feel safe and secure—even when away from home. This familiarity gives them something reassuringly familiar even in unfamiliar surroundings—a valuable asset when travelling with infants!
Tips For Swaddling Your Baby
When swaddling your baby, make sure you use a lightweight blanket large enough to wrap around your baby completely without leaving any loose fabric that could be dangerous for your little one. Make sure not to wrap your baby too tightly – it should be snug but comfortable – and leave some space at the neck so that there is no pressure on their throat or chin. You should also make sure to keep an eye on the temperature of the room; if it’s too hot or too cold, adjust accordingly by adding or removing layers as needed. Finally, be sure to check on your baby regularly after swaddling them to ensure that they are still comfortable and not overheating or getting tangled up in the fabric of their blanket. You can also purchase a blanket specifically designed for swaddling, we love the Mom’s Love Best list of Best Swaddle Blankets for 2023, it goes into detail about swaddle blankets that serves different purposes.
Swaddling is an age-old technique that has been used by many cultures throughout history as an effective way to keep babies feeling secure, safe, and warm while they sleep. Knowing how to properly swaddle your newborn is an important skill for new parents! Not only does it provide comfort and for your little one, but it also helps them sleep soundly through the night, which will benefit both you and your baby!
From providing comfort to helping regulate body temperature during sleep times, there are numerous benefits to swaddling your little one that new parents will appreciate. So don't hesitate—start wrapping up those sweet babes today!