Swaddling transition is a painful concern for most new moms. That’s because most newborns sleep like angels when swaddled but can turn into little devils when the swaddle is out of sight.
If not so long ago new parents kept asking why to swaddle the baby in the first place, today’s question is why, when, and how to stop swaddling. Find it out in the guide below.
Why Should You Swaddle Your Baby?
Swaddling has been a controversial practice for years. Used since the earliest times, this practice gained a negative reputation and modern parents thought it was just “barbarian” to wrap a newborn in a piece of muslin cloth.
However, time proved these parents wrong. Studies, research, and newborn behavior have shown that swaddling soothes newborns, making them feel relaxed and protected. This not only improves sleep but reduces colic and ultimately, it even reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome – at least up to a certain age.
If you don’t believe swaddling is beneficial, just try it on your baby. You’ll see how a simple piece of cloth can comfort a fussy infant in seconds.
Due to this benefits, swaddling transition raises fear. What will happen with your baby’s sleep? When should you stop swaddling? And how to do it?
We’ve answered all these questions below. So, keep reading to find out all the secrets to swaddle weaning.
When Should You Stop Swaddling
According to the American Association of Pediatricians, you should stop swaddling when the baby is about four months of age. But like anything that has to do with a baby, this age is only indicative. Some babies may benefit from swaddling up to 9 months. Others will “ask” you to stop swaddling earlier.
To make swaddling transition easier, you should look for signs that show you when the baby is ready to give up the protective wrap.
In broad lines, you should stop swaddling when the baby gets so active that you find her with one or both arms out after a session of sleep. Another sign a swaddle may be unnecessary is if the baby wakes up several times a night for no apparent reason.
You should also stop swaddling as soon as the baby is strong enough to turn on her tummy while sleeping. At this stage, a swaddle becomes unsafe and poses a higher risk of SIDS.
The baby can also help you understand whether it’s the time to stop wrapping her or not. To check for the signs, either wrap the baby looser or swaddle her leaving one arm out. If your bundle of joy copes well with this changes, it may be a sign that she’s ready to ditch the muslin cloth.
Yet, even if the baby is ready to wean from the swaddle, this process may be harsh for everyone involved. Therefore, let’s see how to stop swaddling the baby.
