A gentle start to life – why swaddling can bring peace
For newborn babies, the world is a bombardment of sounds, lights and sensations. After nine months in the warm, gentle and confined world of the womb, being placed in a big bed with lots of freedom of movement can be overwhelming. So it's no wonder that many newborns become restless or have difficulty finding peace when it comes to sleep.
Swaddling is an ancient and natural method that recreates a sense of security in baby. By enclosing the body with a light blanket, you imitate the confined space of the womb. It can provide a feeling of being held at all times – and the constant, firm touch has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Several studies show that the physical encirclement of swaddling can reduce stress hormone levels in infants while increasing their ability to fall asleep. In the first months, babies need help regulating themselves, and swaddling is a gentle and effective tool.
Swaddling is not a miracle cure, but for many parents it is an effective tool to relieve anxiety, support sleep and create peace in everyday life – especially when combined with a regular cuddle routine and safe surroundings.
The benefits of swaddling your baby
Swaddling is much more than just a sleep strategy. It's a sensory-stimulating practice that can support your baby's well-being in multiple aspects of their day. Here are some of the most recognized benefits:
- Calm and security: The physical embrace activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
- Less crying: Many parents find that their babies cry less when they are swaddled correctly and in the right environment.
- Fewer awakenings: Swaddling reduces the Moro reflex – the startle reflex that can wake baby in the middle of sleep, especially during transitions between sleep stages.
- Improved sleep quality: With more rest comes longer sleep periods, which is beneficial for the child's development and the parents' well-being. Longer sleep phases mean more deep sleep, which is important for brain maturation.
- Strengthened body awareness: The swaddle helps baby feel their boundaries and gain a better sense of their own body, which supports motor development and creates a sense of wholeness and calm.
Swaddling can be especially helpful for babies who are born prematurely, have colic, or just need a little extra care during the transition to life outside the womb. It can also help babies with sensory disturbances or those who have difficulty settling down at bedtime.
Remember, though, that all babies are different. Some love to be swaddled, while others prefer freedom. The most important thing is to always read your baby's signals and adjust according to their needs and temperament.
Baby swaddle from That's Mine
Alle anzeigenHow to swaddle your baby – step by step
You don't need any special equipment or experience to learn how to swaddle your baby. The most important thing is that you use a light and breathable swaddle or blanket, and that you follow a method that is safe and comfortable for the baby. Here's a classic and easy guide:
What you need:
- A baby swaddle made of muslin or soft cotton
- A quiet moment when baby is full and relaxed
- A flat, soft surface – such as a changing pad or bed
How to do it:
- Lay the wrap out like a diamond and fold the top corner down to create a straight edge.
- Place baby on the swaddle, with their shoulders just below the folded edge.
- Bring one arm of the swaddle down the side and fold one side of the swaddle over the body. Tuck it lightly under the baby's back.
- Fold the bottom of the wrap up over your feet. Leave your hips free so your legs can move naturally.
- Bring the other arm down and fold the last side of the wrap over your body. The wrap should be snug, but not tight.
💡 Tip: You can also leave the baby's arms free if the child doesn't like having them swaddled.
That's Mines baby swaddle – created for comfort and closeness
At That's Mine we design baby swaddles that combine function, aesthetics and comfort. Our baby swaddles are made of 100% organic cotton muslin – an ultra-light and breathable material that is gentle on baby's delicate skin.
The large format makes them perfect for swaddling, but also versatile enough to function as a sunshade, nursing blanket or light blanket in the stroller. The beautiful colors and patterns fit into a calm and aesthetic baby universe, where function and sensuality go hand in hand.
When should you not swaddle?
Although swaddling can be a great help, there are situations where it is not recommended:
- When baby shows signs of being able to roll over on his stomach
- If baby has a fever or signs of overheating
- If baby struggles and seems uncomfortable in the swaddle
It is also important to always put your baby to sleep on their back when swaddled – this is the safest sleeping position.
Make swaddling part of your putting routine
Swaddling works best when it is a natural part of the bedtime routine. Here is an example of an evening routine that many parents enjoy:
- A warm bath or a wash with a soft cloth diaper
- A gentle massage with oil
- Swaddling in a soft blanket from That's Mine
- A quiet lullaby or bedtime song
- Good night in a comfortable bed with soft bedding and dim lighting
When swaddling becomes a regular part of your routine, your baby will begin to associate it with sleep and calmness. This creates familiarity, which in itself has a calming effect.
The transition from swaddling to free sleep
As your baby gets older and starts to roll over, swaddling should be slowly phased out. Here are some ways you can make the transition gentle:
- Start by leaving one arm free.
- Use a sleeping bag that provides some structure but freedom of movement
- Maintain routine – baby will still find comfort in recognizable elements such as song, blanket and scent
- Introduce a gravity-defying teddy bear as a new loving sleep buddy
The transition may take some time, but with patience and presence, baby will quickly get used to sleeping without a swaddle.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about swaddling your baby
Only during sleep and rest – baby should be able to move freely during awake periods.
Yes, but only if it is not too hot and there is good ventilation.
Yes, but a dedicated baby swaddle often has the right size and elasticity, which makes swaddling easier and more effective.
Some babies prefer freedom. You may want to try a looser swaddle or with your arms free – and follow your baby's cues.
Create a safe environment – wholeness in baby's sleep
A swaddle is only one part of a good sleep experience. The surroundings also play an important role. At That's Mine you will find everything you need to create a soothing sleep environment:
- 🛏️ Organic cotton bedding
- Gravity teddy bears soothe like a parent's hand
- 🧺 Cloth diapers and swaddles
- 🎨 Soothing posters and wall stickers
Final thoughts – wrap yourself in love
Swaddling your baby is an act of love. It is not about controlling, but about supporting the child in the transition from the womb to the world. A baby swaddle is a tool for calm, but also for closeness and connection.
At That's Mine, we've created baby swaddles that feel like a soft hug – and that make swaddling easy with care and aesthetics. Use them as part of your own little rituals, and feel how everyday life becomes a little easier, and evenings a little more magical.