Can Swaddling Help Your Baby to Sleep Better?

Babies around the world have been swaddled for centuries - and for good reason - there are many benefits.

Swaddling creates a womb-like feel and enables the baby to feel calmer, ultimately achieving better quality sleep. Being wrapped reduces the startle or ‘Moro’ reflex and provides a comfortable, cosy transition from the womb to the outside world.

According to a recent systematic review on the effects of swaddling on sleep and arousal (Dixley and Ball, 2022), swaddling promotes quieter, more restful sleep in babies. Furthermore, research has shown that swaddling and use of a dummy can help with pain relief and lower the heart rate (Efendi et al, 2018). In the UK, around 1 in 5 babies are swaddled in their first few weeks, with parents reporting reduced crying and improved sleep.

However, it is important to swaddle correctly. Always consider the following when swaddling:

1. The material used should be thin and breathable, such as a muslin. Swaddle products should conform to safety standards and be regularly checked for damage or wear and tear. Follow manufacturer guidelines for age and weight and be mindful of the tog rating.

2. Baby’s head and neck should never be wrapped. To reduce the chances of suffocation, don’t swaddle your baby above the shoulders and do not use any additional blankets or sheets.

3. Never swaddle your baby if they have a high temperature and always make sure they are dressed suitably for the weather. Check their temperature regularly and keep the room at a comfortable 18 degrees.

4. To avoid the risk of dysplasia or dislocation, hips should be loose and knees able to kick freely. Legs should fall into a frog legs position with knees pushed up (healthy hip swaddle).

5. Swaddling should be introduced at the newborn phase and stopped as soon as baby is showing signs of rolling.

6. ALWAYS follow safe sleep advice. The Lullaby Trust provide advice and guidance on safe sleep, with up-to-date information on the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Visit the Lullaby trust at www.lullabytrust.org.uk.

If you follow the above advice, swaddling is low risk and a great way to help your baby feel snug and secure.

Visit the NCT for a helpful step-by-step guide to safe swaddling.

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