If you’re expecting a new addition to your family or have recently welcomed a newborn baby into your life, you may have heard about the benefits of swaddling. A swaddle is not a sleep sack. Swaddling is a time-tested practice of wrapping a baby snuggly in a soft, breathable cloth to help them feel secure, calm, and sleep better. But how many swaddling blankets do you actually need? In this blog post, we’ll explore this common question and provide some guidance for new parents.
Swaddling is a versatile and effective technique for soothing newborns and promoting healthy sleep. It mimics the sensation of being in the womb, which can help babies feel comforted and settled. Swaddling can also prevent the startle reflex, which can disrupt sleep, and help regulate a baby’s body temperature. However, not all babies enjoy being swaddled, and it’s important to monitor your baby’s comfort and safety while using this technique.
A swaddle is a thin blanket that is used to securely wrap a baby, typically newborns or infants, like a baby burrito. This kind of wearable blanket creates a snug and secure feeling similar to being in the womb with the baby’s arms and legs close to their body. Swaddles are usually made of soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton or muslin. They come in various sizes and shapes, and there are different techniques for swaddling, depending on the type of swaddle used. Traditional swaddle blankets are large, square-shaped blankets that require folding and wrapping, while swaddle sacks or wraps are pre-shaped and may have Velcro or snaps for easy fastening.
When it comes to how many swaddle blankets you need, the answer depends on several factors, including your baby’s age, your laundry routine, and your personal preferences. It’s also a perfect gift to add to your baby registry!
Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Newborn Stage: During the first few weeks of life, newborn babies tend to sleep and eat round-the-clock, which means they may go through multiple swaddles in a day. It’s recommended to have at least 3-5 swaddles on hand during this stage, so you can rotate them as they get soiled and wash them regularly.
Laundry Frequency: If you prefer doing laundry frequently, you may be able to get by with fewer swaddles. However, if you plan on doing laundry less often, you may need to have more swaddles in your stash to ensure you have enough clean ones available.
Season and Climate: Consider the weather conditions in your area when determining how many swaddles you need. In warmer climates, you may need lighter swaddles made of breathable fabrics, while in colder climates, you may need thicker swaddles or layering options.
Daytime and Nighttime Use: Some parents prefer using a swaddle blanket only at night to help their baby sleep, while others use them during daytime naps as well. If you plan on using swaddles around the clock, you may need more in your collection.
Back-up Swaddles: Babies can be messy, and accidents happen. Having a few extra swaddles as backups can come in handy when unexpected spills or diaper leaks occur.
Types of Swaddles: There are various types of swaddles available, including traditional swaddle blankets, swaddle sacks, and swaddle wraps with Velcro or snaps. Depending on the type of swaddle you choose, you may need different quantities. For example, a traditional swaddle may require more skill to wrap correctly, so you may need more of them, while swaddle sacks or wraps may be easier to use and require fewer quantities.
It’s recommended to have at least 3-5 swaddles on hand for newborns, and you may need more or fewer depending on your personal preferences, laundry routine, climate, and type of swaddle you choose. It’s always a good idea to have some backup swaddles available, and you can adjust your collection as your baby grows and their needs change. Receiving blankets are also like a swaddle, so if you want to use the hospital’s receiving blanket, you’ll already have one there.
Muslin swaddle blankets
Muslin blankets are lightweight, breathable, and versatile, making them a popular choice for many parents. They are made from loosely woven cotton fabric that is soft, durable, and ideal for warm weather or hot climates while keeping the sleeping baby snug.
Swaddle sacks or wraps
Swaddle sacks or wraps are pre-shaped swaddles that come with built-in closures, such as Velcro, snaps, or zippers, making them convenient and quick to put on. They are popular for their ease of use and can be a good option for parents who may be new to swaddling or prefer a simpler approach.
Transitional swaddles
Transitional swaddles are designed for older babies who are ready to transition from being fully swaddled to having their arms free. They often come with adjustable features, such as detachable wings or snaps, and are popular for helping babies transition out of swaddling gradually.
Sleep sacks or wearable blankets
While not traditional swaddle blankets, a sleep sack or wearable blanket are popular for keeping babies warm and safe during sleep without the need for swaddling. They typically have armholes and a zipper or snaps for easy wearing and provide a cozy and secure sleep environment.
Swaddling can be a helpful tool for new parents to soothe their babies and promote better sleep. They can help baby sleep in bassinet. However, it’s crucial to follow safe swaddling practices to ensure your baby’s safety. Always make sure the swaddle is snug but not too tight, leave enough room for your baby to move their hips. We hope this was helpful to figure out how many swaddles you need. Again, they are great baby gear often on baby registries. And you can also add the Owlet baby monitor still under the blanket.
