When it comes to buying a baby swaddle there are a few things you need to consider. You want to choose a high quality product that will last.

The material should be soft enough to rest on your baby’s skin, while also being breathable. This is important because it allows air to circulate around the neck and head.

Size

Swaddle size depends on your baby's height and weight. Ultrasound measurements taken during pregnancy usually include head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC) and thigh bone length (FL).

In general, experts recommend leaving two fingers of space between baby's chest and a swaddling blanket to endure the swaddle is not too tight.

Lay a blanket, preferably one designed for swaddling, on a flat surface and fold the top corner to approximately the center of the blanket. Place your baby on the blanket with their neck above the fold and pull their right arm across.

Once your baby shows signs of rolling over, stop swaddling, as they're more likely to strangle themselves in a swaddled position. It's also good to stop swaddling as soon as you notice your baby starting to kick the swaddle. This can cause a swaddled infant to move around and wake up, increasing the risk of sleep-related death.

Fabric

The fabric of a baby Swaddle should be soft and comfortable for your baby to sleep in. It should also be breathable and stretchy enough to allow your baby to move their arms naturally, which is important for proper shoulder development.

The best baby swaddle is one that fits your baby's unique shape and is sized for their age and weight. This helps ensure they stay swaddled securely and won't roll over or become loose, which can cause suffocation.

To swaddle, fold the blanket in half like a diamond/rhombus and place your baby on the blanket facing up. You'll want the top corner folded down a few inches from the top of the blanket to create a snug fit for your baby.

Pattern

Swaddling your baby is a great way to help them sleep comfortably and to promote skin-to-skin bonding. However, it can be tricky to get a perfectly snug swaddle.

Your doctor or midwife will be able to give you tips on how to swaddle your baby safely. They will also be able to check that the swaddle is tight but not so tight that it restricts breathing or hip movement.

To swaddle, lay a thin blanket on a flat surface with one corner facing upwards (like a diamond!). Place your baby's head on the corner and his shoulders on the blanket.

Put your baby's right arm down by his side and pull the left side of the blanket over his body, tucking it under his left side. Repeat on the other side of your baby's body. Then secure the bottom of the swaddle by folding it over and tucking it under your baby's chin.

Color

Swaddling is a classic technique used to help newborn babies sleep more comfortably. Babies swaddled in soft fabric feel like they're wrapped in their mom's womb, which can help soothe and comfort them during this stressful transition from womb to world.

To swaddle your baby, start by spreading the blanket out flat and fold one corner down to create a diamond shape. Place the baby face-up on the blanket and place their head above the folded corner.

Step 2: Keeping the left arm by baby’s side, gently fold the bottom of the blanket up over baby’s feet and diagonally towards their left shoulder. Tuck it behind the right arm, as well.

Your pediatrician will take measurements of your baby during pregnancy including head circumference, abdominal circumference, and thigh bone length (femur length). This information is important as it may identify if your baby is growing larger or smaller than average. It also gives you and your doctor a chance to discuss any concerns before delivery.

Tips for Choosing the Right Baby Swaddle