What is swaddling?

Swaddling is an age-old technique used all over the world that involves wrapping your baby in a blanket or muslin to limit their movements. The feeling of being snugly wrapped is thought to recall life in the womb and has a calming effect on babies. It is said to reduce crying and help your little one fall asleep quickly and for longer.

Today, Maman Et Bébé Nature explains everything about this increasingly popular practice among new parents.

Why swaddle your baby?

Before trying any new practice, it's important to understand its benefits.

Swaddling your little one helps reduce wake-ups caused by the Moro reflex.

The Moro reflex is one of a newborn's primitive reflexes: when a baby feels unsafe or uncomfortable, their arms move uncontrollably, which can startle them during sleep.

This is where swaddling comes into its own — stopping those uncontrolled movements and preventing sudden wake-ups. Here's to long, peaceful nights!

Holding baby close and reminding them of the womb

In the womb, your baby felt safe: a warm, snug environment that was perfect for their development. From birth, they discover the sensation of "open space" around them, which can be unsettling and disorienting. Swaddling allows your baby to rediscover the sensations they knew before birth, bringing them calm and reassurance.

Easing colic through swaddling

The gentle pressure the muslin exerts on your baby's tummy and the feeling of being wrapped up can help ease tummy aches and colic. It also prevents your baby from wriggling around and making the pain worse.

How to swaddle your baby

Not sure of the technique yet? Don't worry — it's easier than you think. Just follow these steps carefully:

Lay the large muslin out in a diamond shape and fold down the top corner.

Place your baby on the large muslin, with their shoulders level with the fold.

Take the right corner of the large muslin and tuck it between your baby's left arm and body, then slide it under their back (watch out for any uncomfortable creases).

Fold the bottom corner of the large muslin upwards (your baby should be able to stretch and move their legs freely) and tuck it gently at chest level.

Take the remaining corner of the large muslin, wrap it over your baby's body, and tuck the fabric under their back to hold it in place.

Maman & Bébé Nature's tips

Like all parenting practices, swaddling remains a subject of debate. It's for you to form your own opinion, while taking sensible precautions for your baby's wellbeing.

Maman et Bébé Nature shares a few tips to help you avoid the risks associated with incorrect swaddling:

It is very important not to wrap your baby's legs too tightly, as this could encourage hip dysplasia and potentially lead to a limp when they start walking.

It is essential to monitor your baby's temperature: swaddling can quickly raise body temperature. There is therefore no need to add a blanket when your baby is already swaddled. The best approach is to choose the muslin fabric according to the season. We also offer a range of large muslins in organic cotton, ideal for your baby's nights.

In summary, swaddling is a practice with many benefits for your baby, but it does have its limits if not done correctly. Some parents love it; others not so much.

For parents who prefer not to swaddle, muslins can also make a lovely comforter for bedtime...