If it's good enough for Prince George...!

When Prince George was born, his first official photograph showed him swaddled in the arms of his mother.  It is claimed that on the back of this, the practice of swaddling your baby has taken off in the UK.

However, swaddling is not just a current fad. The practice of swaddling goes back to around 4000BC in ancient central Asia. The ancient Greeks and Romans swaddled and there are biblical references to swaddling babies.  The practice continued through the centuries, with women across the world wrapping their babies in order to soothe, reassure and help them to sleep.  And in the last ten or so years, scientific study into swaddling supports what mothers have known all along!

So what are the benefits of swaddling?

Wrapping your baby with their arms close to their bodies is said to recreate the warmth and security of the womb, so immediately helps a baby feel safe, calm and comfortable. By putting them down to sleep wrapped in a swaddle, this feeling of peace can continue.  Swaddling prevents babies from making spontaneous jerky movements (called reflex motion) and waking themselves up continually during the night, leading to a longer, more restorative sleep.

Aden + Anais Organic Muslin Swaddling Wrap

Babies should always be swaddled in light fabric as a heavy blanket could get them too hot. Aden + Anais produce some beautiful swaddling blankets made from muslin.  This lightweight fabric has a delicate, but strong weave, making the fabric stretchy and therefore ideal for swaddling, as the natural give allows the blanket to be tucked snuggly around a baby without being overly restrictive. The muslin also allows air to circulate, keeping the baby cosy without fear of overheating. Equally, Ergopouch do a fabulous bamboo swaddle wrap with many of the same properties.

Always look for the Frog Legs!

There have been fears that swaddling forces the hips into a straightened position where the legs are pressed together, which may lead to a condition called hip dysplasia. In fact, when a baby is swaddled properly, their legs are not restricted and they have plenty of room for the hips and knees to move freely. A baby’s natural hip position is 'frog' style – with legs drawn up and thighs roughly at right angles to the body. This helps the ball and socket joint develop properly in the hip.

The Ergobaby Sleep Tight Swaddler

If you are not confident about getting the right position, we recommend the ease (and speed!) of a swaddler, where the work is done for you! We especially love the Sleep Tight Swaddler from Ergobaby and the EasySwaddle from Aden + Anais – both stretchy, breathable and importantly help keep your baby’s legs in the Frog Leg position.

If you are not sure whether to swaddle or not, the ErgoCocoon from ErgoPouch is a perfect option for you – this half swaddler / half sleeping bag keeps your baby’s arms tucked inside, but with space to move their hands.  It comes with poppers in the arms for an easy transition into a sleeping bag when your baby is ready!

The ErgoCocoon Hybrid Swaddle & Sleeping Bag

When swaddling, use common sense and your instinct as a parent.  Use a specific swaddler, swaddling blanket or muslin, don’t cover your baby’s head and never place them on their stomach when swaddled.  Many babies love and respond to the benefits of swaddling but it’s not for everyone so listen to your baby’s needs and be led by them! 

Check out our range of baby blankets and swaddles at Borndirect, or ask about them in our stores.