Swaddling is wrapping a baby snugly in a thin blanket to help them feel secure and reduce startling. It must be done safely, with room for the hips and legs, and should stop as soon as the baby shows signs of trying to roll.
Key takeaways
- Always place a swaddled baby on their back.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics notes babies may start trying to roll as early as 2 months.
- Leave the legs free to bend up and out to protect the hips.
What you can do
- Use a thin, breathable blanket and keep it below the shoulders.
- Check that you can fit two or three fingers between the wrap and your baby's chest.
- Do not swaddle if you are bed-sharing or if your baby is hot.
