You'd think after nine months of growing inside another human being, a new born would want a little space to stretch out. You'd think that, but you'd be wrong. Swaddling has a great effect on babies, helping them sleep longer and preventing SIDS. Parents who wish to keep their baby swaddled have a few options to choose from when considering the ancient art of baby wrapping.
Why Swaddle?
While what you do with your baby should always come down to your baby's preferences and what you're willing to tolerate, swaddling has a number of benefits a parent should consider.
* '''Reduced risk of SIDS''': Society doesn't fully understand Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, but we do know that statistics say babies should sleep on their backs. A swaddling blanket keeps your child securely in that position.
* '''Increased sleep''': Newborns can startle themselves awake with their own movements. Since swaddling blankets restricts movement, parents who swaddle their babies find they sleep longer. That applies to both the babies and the parents.
* '''Reduced colic''': Some parents find that their baby's colic is reduced with proper swaddling. Eliminating the startle reflex is one possible cause, but it's also possible newborns find being tightly enclosed comforting.
Swaddling Options
Swaddling blankets come in a wide variety of colors and are largely onefree fabrics, a stretchier blanket can last you longer with a larger or quick growing baby.
If you find your baby expenses are high, you can save money on a swaddling blanket by not buying one. You don't need one to swaddle your child; a receiving blanket can work just as well, as can a muslin wrap. Receiving blankets are especially useful; they can be used as spit-up rags, and make great childhood keepsakes... after they're been cleaned.
