Benefits of Swaddling

Experts including Dr. Laura Jana, Dr. Bradley Thach, Dr. Sears recommend swaddling for sleep time. In 2002, Dr. Bradley Thach led a study that proved that swaddled back sleeping babies sleep better than unswaddled babies.

Supine swaddling helps to reduce risk of SIDS because swaddling helps babies sleep better on their back, therefore parents are less likely to use unsafe tummy position for sleep.

Doctors, nurses, childbirth educators, doulas, parents, and medical experts recommend SwaddleDesigns blankets because they are large, square, lightweight and breathable. Cotton is a natural and breathable fabric which reduces the risk of overheating. Medical studies have shown there are many benefits to swaddling.

Supine Swaddling Decreases the Risk of SIDS

• Swaddled back sleeping infants have a lower incidence of SIDS than unswaddled back sleeping infants as stated in the Journal of Pediatrics, December 2002.
• When babies sleeps better on their back, parents are less likely to use the unsafe tummy position for sleep
• Swaddling helps sleeping infants remain on their backs

Swaddled Babies Sleep Better

• Swaddling decreases occurrence of the startle reflex which frequently wakes unswaddled babies
• Infants sleep with fewer awakenings when swaddled and have twice as much REM sleep
• REM sleep is believed to be important for brain development
• When babies sleep better and longer, parents get more sleep, too

Reduces Colic and Fussiness

• Snug swaddling soothes babies by reminding baby of the snugness of the womb
• Swaddling helps prevent over-stimulation
• Babies are inefficient at regulating their temperature. Swaddling helps keep baby warm

Helpful When Breastfeeding

• Tucking baby’s hands into the swaddle will keep baby’s hands from impairing latch-on
• Baby’s extra movements are nicely contained when swaddled which can help baby focus and latch on. Once baby has learned how to latch on and is nursing, remove the swaddle so baby and mom can be skin to skin and tummy to tummy.
• Use the blanket to drape over mom and baby for warmth. Skin to skin is best when learning how to breastfeed.