How to Swaddle a Newborn
There's nothing more snug and cute about a swaddled baby. But not everyone knows how to perfectly swaddle their little one. Follow the below easy steps to master your baby swaddle.
Step by Step:
1: Find a flat surface and spread your baby’s swaddle blanket out in the shape of a diamond - one corner pointing up.
2. Fold the top corner down about 6 inches.
3: Place your baby face-up on the blanket. He's or her head should sit above the folded edge of the blanket, and he's or her body should extend straight down toward the bottom corner.
4. Straighten baby's left arm, then take the left side of the blanket and wrap it over the left arm and chest. Tuck the blanket underneath the back and right arm meaning the left arm would be covered and the right arm free.
5. Fold the bottom corner of the blanket over the baby's body and tuck it under the first fold (under the chin). Once you've straightened baby's right arm, pull the right side of the blanket over the baby's body and tuck it under the left side.
6. Finally secure the blanket by loosely twisting the bottom of the blanket and tucking it underneath your baby.
Important to note:
The swaddle should be snug but not too tight - you should be able to place two to three fingers between baby's chest and the blanket. Make sure the blanket is loose around the hips so they can move their legs freely.
If you baby prefers to keep their arms free, it's find to leave one or both arms out of the swaddle for more comfort.
If your bub is always trying to wriggle out of their swaddle, they might just not be a fan of the swaddle - not all babies are. It might be a good idea to consider trying an alternative swaddle like a wrap that comes with a zipper for closure. A kicked-off blanket isn't safe when you newborn is sleeping as it can course suffocation risk.