It’s 2 a.m., and your little one is fussing again. You’ve fed, burped, and changed them, but sleep still seems far away. For many parents, this is a familiar scenario. What if there was a way to bring your baby the same sense of comfort they felt in the womb by helping them feel safe, calm, and ready for rest?

Guess what? There is! And it’s as simple as the age-old practice of swaddling.

Why Swaddling Works

Swaddling is more than just wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket; it’s actually a gentle way of recreating the cosy, secure environment of the womb.

The swaddle should feel like a gentle hug or snug, but not too tight. Always allow your baby’s legs to bend up and out at the hips (frog-like position) to keep it hip-healthy and prevent hip dysplasia.

Swaddling helps to calm the Moro (startle) reflex, which then helps babies sleep longer and more soundly without startling themselves awake. Many parents also find that it helps soothe fussiness and even colic, giving both baby and parents much-needed rest.

How to Swaddle in 3 Easy Steps

Step 1: Lay the blanket in a diamond shape and fold the top corner down. Place your baby in the centre with shoulders just below the fold.

Step 2: Gently bring one side of the blanket across the baby’s chest and tuck it under the opposite arm.

Step 3: Fold the bottom corner up over the legs, then wrap the remaining side across, leaving enough room for the hips to bend into a natural frog-like position.

Why the Right Fabric Matters

Not all swaddling blankets are made the same. The material you choose can make a world of difference for your baby’s comfort and well-being. Beyond just warmth, the right fabric provides a sense of security, helping your little one feel calm, content, and loved.

1. Gentle on delicate skin

Babies have sensitive skin that deserves extra care. Natural fabrics like Tencel are soft to the touch, hypoallergenic, and especially suitable for babies with eczema or skin sensitivities.

2. Breathable and temperature-regulating

Tencel’s breathable fibres help regulate body temperature by wicking away moisture and allowing air to flow. This means your baby stays comfortable – not too hot, not too cold – whether it’s nap time during the day or sleep through the night.

3. A soothing sensory experience

The silky, lightweight feel of a high-quality swaddle mimics the reassuring closeness of a parent’s touch. This calming sensation can reduce fussiness and promote longer, more restful sleep.

4. The “gentle hug” effect

A well-chosen fabric turns swaddling into more than just wrapping; it becomes a consistent, comforting hug that signals safety and love, supporting your baby’s emotional development and strengthening your bond.

Finding the Right Swaddle for Your Baby

For parents seeking swaddles that balance softness, safety, and comfort, Granny Ben offers a thoughtfully crafted range designed with babies (and tired parents!) in mind. Their swaddle blankets, made from Tencel, are breathable, hypoallergenic, and perfectly designed to support restful sleep.

Consider exploring their range of baby products at Granny Ben’s website, because when your baby sleeps well, that means a good night’s sleep for you too!