So, when do you stop swaddling a baby? If you’re a first-time parent or parent-to-be, this question is probably top of mind. Newborns love the security and comfort that comes with swaddling, as it mimics the feeling of being in the womb. However, they can’t be swaddled forever.
You should stop swaddling your baby around the three-month mark. Today’s blog reveals what to look for, as well as how to transition them out of their swaddle.
Why Do We Stop Swaddling?
As we mentioned, babies love the comfort and security that their swaddle provides. So, why stop? Well, as babies get older, they begin to purposefully move their hands and arms. And instead of comforting, swaddling can start to feel restrictive.
Additionally, we don’t want babies to roll while swaddled. Therefore, experts recommend transitioning your baby out of the swaddle whenever they start to show the capability of rolling – usually around three or four months.
(Note that some babies roll from their tummy to back during tummy time. This isn’t on purpose, as they can merely crane their heads back and their tiny bodies will follow. You can still swaddle your baby if you see this early on.)
When Do You Stop Swaddling a Baby?
It’s time to stop swaddling your baby when you start to notice purposeful hand and arm movements and/or your baby has started rolling during playtime. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), this typically happens around three or four months. (However, all babies are unique! Some will start rolling as early as two months.)
Regardless of their exact age, here are some signs it’s time to transition your little one out of the swaddle:
Holding their own bottle
Rolling their hips from side to side
Using their legs to lift their hips up
Rolling onto their shoulders or sides
Reaching for a toy placed in front of them
Lifting their head and shoulders during tummy time
Kicking their legs and scooting in a circle while on their back
How to Wean Baby Off Swaddle
Is it time to wean your baby off their swaddle? Follow these steps:
Step 1. Have a lightweight sleep sack (with free arms) on hand for nighttime. Don’t use any weighted products.
Step 2. Maintain your baby’s bedtime schedule and routine. Simply place them in their sleep sack instead of the swaddle.
Step 3. Allow your baby to settle themselves to sleep. Now that your baby has free hands and can position themselves, refrain from offering them a pacifier.
Step 4. Give your baby some time to learn how to self-soothe. Remember that self-soothing is a skill, and it’ll take at least a few nights to get the hang of it. Also note that if your baby flips onto their tummy on their own, they’re safe to stay there.
My Baby Broke Out of Their Swaddle – Should I Stop Swaddling?
Unless your little one is demonstrating that they’re ready to sleep unswaddled (see above), we encourage you to keep them swaddled. More often than not, babies who fight their swaddles simply need an adjustment. (If the swaddle isn’t snug, for example, your baby’s startle reflex can cause arm flails that might be perceived as an escape.)
Infant Care Dallas
So, when do you stop swaddling a baby? Hopefully, today’s blog post gave you an answer. If you need help transitioning your baby out of the swaddle or helping them develop healthy sleep habits, our Newborn Nightingale team is here for you.
As newborn care specialists in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and beyond, we can support you along your postpartum journey and answer any questions you have. Simply let us know how we can serve you!
Comments