We love swaddling, as it makes such a difference to how well newborns sleep. Swaddled or wrapped babies generally settle quicker and sleep for longer at each sleep, which makes a big difference to adjusting to life with a newborn.
Swaddling articles
We have a comprehensive section of swaddling information.
- Swaddling FAQ
- Swaddling Instructions
- Weaning your baby off swaddling
- Summer swaddles information
- Summer swaddles comparison chart
- Safety factors to consider with swaddling
- Swaddling over a sleeping bag
Choosing a wrap
Which wrap to use makes a big difference to how well your baby settles and how long they sleep for. The wrap needs to be safe, fit well and stay swaddled all night.
Read our article on Choosing the Right Wrap for your Baby.
Video — all about swaddling
In the video below Louise from The Sleep Store will guide you through the different types of swaddles available with a focus on transitional & summer swaddles.
Swaddling techniques with regular wraps
As mentioned above, it's important to use an effective swaddling technique so your baby doesn't get hot fighting to escape!
Arms down swaddling
This is the most secure way to swaddle and a good option for using with either light stretch cotton or muslin. This is the technique recommended by Dr Harvey Karp in The Happiest Baby, as it seems to be the most secure of any technique.
Aussie style swaddling
This is the technique often used in Australia with muslin wraps, and we have some instructions from the lovely people at Aden + Anais. Suitable for babies who like to suck their hands, sleep with arms up or who don't have much startle reflex. Harder to keep secure especially for wrigglers or Houdini babies!
