The weighted baby swaddle has been a preferred type of sleep for decades. However, new research shows that it might not be the best option for babies to keep them safe and fall asleep. Parents should know about this new research before they decide on how to wrap their newborns up at night.
Using the weighted baby swaddle:
The weighted baby swaddle is a type of swaddle that uses extra weight to keep your baby snug. This is different from traditional swaddles, which use fabric and bandages to keep the baby tightly wrapped. Swaddling has been shown to reduce crying and stress in babies, and the weighted baby swaddle is one way to enhance these benefits.
To choose the weighted baby swaddle, you’ll need to decide on the amount of weight you’d like it to have. Most weighted blankets come with Instructions for Use, so be sure to follow them carefully. The heavier the blanket, the more snugly your baby will be swaddled. You don’t want it so heavy that it’s uncomfortable or difficult for you to carry around, but you also don’t want it so light that your child becomes chilled or feels relaxed without being strapped in.
Once you have chosen the weight of your blanket, make sure that it is comfortable and sized appropriately for your baby. The weight should be distributed evenly across the blanket so that it is not too heavy or too light. The blanket should also fit snugly around your baby’s body, but not be so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts movement.
If using a weighted blanket as a standalone sleep aid, place it in your child’s crib before bedtime. If using it in conjunction with traditional swaddling techniques, put the weighted blanket over your baby’s head and tie the ends around his waist or legs to keep him snugly against your body while he sleeps.
Once you’ve chosen your weight and gathered your materials, it’s time to get started! Make a small square of fabric using batting or an old T-shirt, then place it over your child’s head and shoulders. Make sure the fabric extends down below their arms and covers their chest completely. Next, wrap the fabric around them twice (like a burrito), making sure all sides are tightly secured. Finally, tie off each end of the fabric with a knot or piece of yarn. You’re done!
Pros of using a weighted swaddle:
There are many pros to using a weighted swaddle. Some of them include:
- It can help to soothe your baby by providing sensory input, such as movement, sound, and smell.
- Weighted swaddling can help to regulate your baby’s breathing and heart rate.
- Weighted swaddling can also help to promote healthy sleep habits in infants.
