Why swaddle a baby in cloth

Yet there is little research to support these theories. That means they will be less likely to startle themselves awake with their flailing limbs. Considering this, it makes sense that babies would enjoy being wrapped gently not too tightly so they feel secure like they did in the womb. Medical opinion on whether swaddling is a good practice or not is divided. Swaddling your baby carries some risks. Your baby will also have a more natural positioning and latch well on the breast if they are not restricted by swaddling RCM, Research has shown swaddled babies feed less frequently, suckle less effectively and that their inhibited arm movement affects their arousal pathways RCM, Make sure your baby is able to move their hips and knees freely to kick.

The effects of swaddling on sudden infant death syndrome SIDS is unclear. Swaddling may prevent babies from turning from their back to a face-down position, potentially protecting them from SIDS. Yes, if you follow safe sleeping and safe and hip friendly swaddling guidance for babies. Current baby sleeping advice is to always lay your little one down to sleep on their back and avoid front or side positions for sleep, especially if your baby is swaddled Pease et al, In addition, you should stop swaddling your baby when they show the first signs of rolling over Nelson, Swaddling should only be introduced when your baby is a newborn.

This is so they can use their hands and arms freely to adjust their head position if they roll over onto their side or front RCM, Your baby could start learning to roll over as early as around two to three months old. For more about how to swaddle your baby safely read our step-by-step guide to swaddling.

This page was last reviewed in September Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: You might find attending one of NCT's Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area. Safer sleep advice and bereavement support from the Lullaby Trust.

Greviskes A. International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Irving J. It also can really help some parents get their babies to fall and stay asleep on their backs, which is what we recommend to help prevent sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. But there are downsides to swaddling. Because it keeps the legs together and straight, it can increase the risk of hip problems.

And if the fabric used to swaddle a baby comes loose, it can increase the risk of suffocation. The American Academy of Pediatrics AAP says that when done correctly, swaddling can be an effective technique to help calm infants and promote sleep.

But if you plan to swaddle your infant at home, you need to follow a few guidelines to make sure you are doing it safely.

This may be even more important if your baby is swaddled. Moon says. Many babies start working on rolling at around 2 months of age. There is no evidence with regard to SIDS risk related to the arms swaddled in or out. Infant sleep clothing, such as a wearable blanket or sleep sack, is preferred over blankets and other coverings to keep a baby warm.

However, as with regular blanket swaddling, the use of wearable blankets or sleep sacks that compress the arms, chest and body should stop once a baby shows signs of starting to roll over.

Sleep sacks that do not swaddle and allow the baby to move freely can be used indefinitely. Parents should know that there are some risks to swaddling, Dr.

The AAP recommends parents follow the safe sleep recommendations every time they place their baby to sleep for naps or at nighttime:. Use caution when buying products that claim to reduce the risk of SIDS. Wedges, positioners, special mattresses and specialized sleep surfaces have not been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS, according to the AAP. Swaddling can increase the chance your baby will overheat, so avoid letting your baby get too hot.

The baby could be too hot if you notice sweating, damp hair, flushed cheeks, heat rash, and rapid breathing. Consider using a pacifier for naps and bedtime. Place the crib in an area that is always smoke-free. Babies who are swaddled too tightly may develop a problem with their hips.