A Gentle Transition: When and How to Stop Swaddling Your Baby
What is swaddling? Why do we do it?
Swaddling is an age-old practice that provides comfort and security to newborns by mimicking the cozy feeling of the womb. We are able to recreate this feeling by using a muslin blanket or products such as my personal favorite, the Ollie swaddle (you can use this code for a discount: 6Q70W1AEND). Swaddling also helps to reduce the Moro Reflex (that wonderful, involuntary movement that seems to ruin every nap).
However, just like any sleep aid, there comes a time when swaddling needs to be phased out.
This means you’ve probably accepted the fact that you can’t bundle your baby up like a burrito in their muslin swaddle blanket forever. And so you’ve stumbled across this blog while typing “how to transition my baby out of the swaddle” (or some version of that) into Google or Pinterest. I know this transition can be intimidating. Don’t worry, in this blog, we will explore the reasons for stopping swaddling, the right time to do it, and some effective strategies to ensure a smooth transition for your little one!
Why Stop Swaddling?
Swaddling undoubtedly offers many benefits during the early stages of a baby's life. However, as babies grow and develop, there are several reasons why swaddling should be discontinued:
Safety Concerns: Once a baby starts rolling over, swaddling can pose a suffocation risk, as it may hinder their ability to move freely.
Developmental Milestones: Rolling over is just one of many milestones that signify a baby's growing physical abilities. Stopping swaddling allows them to explore their movements and develop essential motor skills they will use for future endeavors such as crawling and walking!
Sleep Associations: Swaddling can become a strong sleep association for babies. Over time, they may struggle to fall asleep without being swaddled, leading to sleep disruptions.
Comfort Preference: Some babies may outgrow the need for swaddling and might prefer to sleep with their arms and legs free.
When to Stop Swaddling?
The right time to stop swaddling varies from one baby to another. Generally, it is recommended to begin the transition around 3 to 6 months of age, depending on their developmental progress. Here are some signs that your baby might be ready to stop swaddling:
Rolling Over: Once your baby starts showing signs of rolling over independently, it's time to stop swaddling. Rolling over is a critical milestone, and swaddling can impede their ability to move safely during sleep. Some signs of being ready to roll include
Controlled lifting of head and shoulders.
Rolling their hips to the side.
Using their legs to lift hips.
Kicking legs and spinning in a circle while on their back.
Able to get their body up on their shoulder.
Escaping the Swaddle: If your baby consistently breaks free from the swaddle, it's a sign that they are becoming more mobile and may no longer need to be wrapped tightly.
Increased Wakefulness: If you notice that your baby is becoming more alert and awake during their sleep times, it could indicate that they are ready to sleep without the restriction of swaddling.
How to Stop Swaddling - Gentle Transition Tips
Gradual Transition: Instead of abruptly stopping swaddling, try a gradual approach. Start by swaddling your baby with one arm out and the other arm swaddled for a few nights. Then, move to both arms out but continue swaddling around the chest for comfort. Finally, let go of the swaddle completely and transition to a sleep sack such as the oh so cozy Kyte Baby bamboo sleep bag!
Swaddle Alternatives: Introduce a transitional sleep sack or wearable blanket (traditional sleep sack) that allows arm movement while still providing a sense of security.
Create a Soothing Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help your baby associate specific actions with sleep. A soothing routine can include activities like a warm bath, gentle massage, soft lullabies, or storytime.
Be Patient and Flexible: The transition from swaddling can take time, and your baby may experience some disruptions in sleep initially. Be patient and adjust your approach as needed to suit your baby's comfort.
In conclusion..
As a pediatric sleep consultant and mom of two, I understand that transitioning away from swaddling can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. However, it's a necessary step for their safety and development. By recognizing the signs that your baby is ready to stop swaddling and employing gentle transition techniques, you can ensure a smooth and successful shift to sleep without the swaddle.
Remember, each baby is unique, and finding the right approach may require some trial and error. In time, your little one will adjust to their new sleep routine and continue to thrive as they grow! For more newborn sleep tips, be sure to grab a copy of my free Newborn Sleep Guide!
If you’re reading this and struggling with your baby’s sleep, you don’t have to wait until you reach your breaking point with sleep deprivation to ask for help (like myself and so many others have!).
I offer free 30-minute calls to see if working together would be a good fit. I am here to be your go-to person, to answer your questions and support you, making the sleep training process easier on the whole family!
Cheers to better sleep!
Yasmin Johnston
Your Pediatric Sleep Consultant
