Best Swaddle for Baby Who Can Roll Over

If you've never had a newborn, the thought of wrapping your baby up so tightly that they can't move their arms might sound like a crazy idea.

But many parents will tell you that many newborns are comforted by swaddles—they tend to cry less and sleep more when they're snuggly wrapped.

In this article:

• What is Swaddling?
• Should All Babies Be Swaddled?
• What are the Types of Swaddles?
• Babylist's Best Swaddle Picks

What is Swaddling?

If you're new to the notion of swaddling, the concept is quite simple. It's a way of wrapping a blanket around your baby tight enough so they can't wriggle out.

Swaddling is great for a few reasons:

• It prevents the newborn startle reflex from waking them by keeping baby's arms tight to their sides.
• Newborns feel comforted and calm in the tight, womb-like wrap.
• It keeps your baby warm while they sleep without any loose blankets, which can be a suffocation hazard.

Should All Babies Be Swaddled?

Generally, swaddling is safe for all newborns. But if your baby has hip dysplasia or other hip issues, swaddling may aggravate that. Be sure to check with your pediatrician if that's the case for you.

Also, because all babies are different, some just don't like being swaddled. Or, they may be fine with having their torso swaddled, but want their arms free.

What are the Types of Swaddles?

It's a good idea to register for a couple of different types of swaddles to see which one your baby prefers. Swaddles typically fall into two camps:

• Traditional swaddling blankets: These are large, thin blankets that you wrap baby up in like a little burrito. They can be used for other things post swaddling, like blankets and burp cloths, but there's definitely a "how do you do this?" learning curve!
• Swaddling sacks and pouches: Easier to navigate for new parents, these tend to come with things like Velcro, snaps and zippers to help you get that snug swaddle.

How Long Do You Swaddle?

Newborns are usually swaddled until about 3 or 4 months or as soon as they are able to roll over.

When your baby starts rolling over around, swaddling can be dangerous since babies shouldn't lie on their stomachs without being able to use their arms. But then many babies have difficulty falling or staying asleep without the cocoon-like feel of a swaddle.

A transition blanket is a good solution for that time in between swaddling and your child being old enough to use a loose blanket. It's a wearable blanket that's designed to let your baby's arms be free, but still provides the coziness of a swaddle.

Here are two transition blankets that Babylist parents love:

Halo SleepSack: The Halo SleepSack is like the Halo Swaddle, but with the wings that wrap around your baby removed. Your baby's arms will be free, but their legs will still be inside a zippered pouch, so it helps them feel secure as they transition.

Merlin's Magic Sleepsuit: The magic sleepsuit is a thick jumper. It has arms and legs like a normal one-piece outfit, but the thick material helps restrict baby's movements as they get used to sleeping without a swaddle.

How We Chose Our Best Swaddles

We asked thousands of real Babylist families about the baby products they love the most, now that their little one has arrived. We took the top products they shared with us and added our own research and insight. Here are the top swaddles we think you and your baby will love.

Do you think this content is helpful? Let our editors know!

Sampler Pack

Why We Love It

Here's the thing about babies—it's hard to know what they'll like (and what they most definitely will not) before they're here. Instead of committing to one type of swaddle before they arrive, the ingenious Swaddle Box lets you try out four bestselling (and completely different) swaddle brands and styles. You'll have the chance to see what you and your baby like the most and then can stock up from there.

Keep in Mind

The box includes four popular picks: the Love to Dream Swaddle UP Original, Happiest Baby's Sleepea 5-Second Baby Swaddle, the Halo Cotton SleepSack Swaddle and Aden + Anais's classic Essentials Cotton Muslin Swaddle.

Popular Pick

Why We Love It

The Halo SleepSack makes swaddling a no-brainer thanks to the zipper and Velcro wings. And because it zips from the bottom, diaper changes are quick. Unlike typical swaddles, this sleepsack style is looser around the legs and provides more options for securing your baby's arms. (You can even leave arms out and fasten the wings around their waist.) It also helps make the transition out of swaddles easier.

Keep in Mind

Parents across the board really love using the Velcro, but many say it can make a loud sound (which may startle a sleepy baby).

What Babylist Parents Say

"Amazingly simple and easy to use… specially when sleep deprived!" -Megan

"This is our absolute #1 item that helped our child sleep." -Angelica

Most Versatile

Why We Love It

Aden + Anais' soft, cozy swaddles can be used well beyond the "baby burrito" phase. These breathable, lightweight blankets do double duty as a nursing cover, burp cloth, playmat and can be thrown over a stroller or car seat to provide shade. Better yet, the collection's adorable prints are ever changing and make a great baby shower gift.

Keep in Mind

There are no zippers or Velcro closures to aid your swaddling efforts. But once you get the hang of things, it'll be a cinch (even at 3 am). Some parents appreciate that the fabric allows a little wiggle room for babies to move their arms, while others find it tricky to get a super-tight swaddle. And when babies work hard enough, they can break free.

And if you just can't make it work but love Aden + Anais, know they now offer a cotton Wrap Swaddle and Snug Swaddle.

What Babylist Parents Say

"The Aden and Anais swaddles are fantastic. Soft and lightweight, big enough to cover a squirmy baby and multi-purpose." -Suman B.

"These are the only swaddles I have used. I love how big and versatile they are. They are so thin and comfortable I would use them for myself if they were big enough."

Best Value

Why We Love It

The SwaddleMe Original is a simple pouch with fabric wings that'll remind your kiddo of the good old days in the womb. And because they come in a super-affordable 3-pack, you'll always have a trusty backup ready to go when you need it (and you will need it!).

Keep in Mind

There's no zipper, so you'll have to undo the swaddle for middle-of-the night diaper changes.

What Babylist Parents Say

"I'm horrible at swaddling, so to have a blanket that does it for me is great." -Ashley B.

"Velcro on SwaddleMe was a game changer!!!" -Erin D.

Room to Move

Why We Love It

Lots of babies actually prefer to keep their arms up ("raise the roof" style) rather than tucked down at their sides or chest. The Love to Dream creates a secure space, while allowing newborns to position their arms upward. This is a great choice for babies who don't like traditional swaddles, but still need their startle reflex calmed. Parents also love the ease of the zipper and hip-friendly leg positioning.

Keep in Mind

With arms in an upright position, babies can easily use their hands (albeit under the swaddle's soft fabric) to self soothe…helping everyone get more sleep.

What Babylist Parents Say

"Swaddle Up was a lifesaver for our newborn that hated being swaddled. Once he could sleep with his arms up, we all started sleeping!"

"Love to Dream swaddle was awesome. It let her sleep with hands by her face to suck on but was still confined. Loved the zipper too."

One Easy Step

Why We Love It

Consider the Woombie your one-zip trick for getting everyone a better night's sleep. Parents appreciate the simplicity—there's no Velcro, flaps or extra fabric to deal with. And lots of babies love having the freedom to naturally move their arms and legs around, while still feeling safe and comforted. They spend less time trying to be an escape artist and more time getting ZZZs.

Keep in Mind

The stretchy fabric allows for more room to move (which is great for some babies and not so great for others.)

What Babylist Parents Say

"Love the ease of the zipper, and the ability for my son to move his hands inside the swaddle without being able to startle himself awake!" -Ali F.

"Our baby hated being constricted by a regular swaddle, so the Woombie let her stretch a little while still keeping her snug." -Lindsay S.

Safe & Secure

Why We Love It

Houdini babies may have met their match: this swaddle has an inner band that secures arms to sides and an outer layer that zips up over that. Quiet Velcro doesn't rouse sleepy babies and organic cotton and open-weave mesh prevent overheating.

Keep in Mind

This swaddle won't offer little ones any arm movement, which is great for sleepers who like being in that position but not so hot for babies that want their hands near their face.

What Babylist Parents Say

"My wriggly son was not able to get out of the Sleepea Swaddle!" -Amy B.

Personalized Fit

Why We Love It

There's no Velcro or zippers on this swaddle, just a pouch and long fabric wings. You simply wrap the wings around your baby several times and then tuck the loose end into the fabric (similar to wrapping a towel around your body.) This design lets you easily adjust to fit every baby shape, from petite to future linebacker.

Keep in Mind

You'll have to undo the swaddle for diaper changes, unlike others that have a zipper.

What Babylist Parents Say

"Miracle Blanket is my absolute favorite. My baby sleeps longer because it's the only swaddle she can't get her arms out of. " -Kristin P.

"Every other swaddle we tried allowed my baby to move his arms enough that he became determined to get his arms out. The Miracle Blanket worked wonders, and he was so comfortable in it and slept long stretches as soon as we started using it." -K.L.

For Tall Babies

Why We Love It

The bottom of this swaddle is left open so you can adjust the length of it by using an elastic tie below your baby's feet. It's perfect for longer newborns and can be adjusted as your baby grows. It also offers easy access for diaper changes. The bonus? The fabric is extra soft and moisture wicking, ensuring your baby doesn't get overheated.

Keep in Mind

It's on the pricier side, but the one-size-fits all design will last as long as you need to swaddle your baby.

What Babylist Parents Say

"Seriously the best swaddle on the market. I used many different swaddles, and this blew all the competition out of the park." -Laura A.

"We went through numerous swaddles until we found this one. It was a lifesaver! Very easy to use. Velcro is secure, making it almost impossible for the baby to wiggle out. It grows with the baby and can be used as a wearable blanket when they outgrow the swaddle." -O.Y.

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Choosing the Right Swaddle for Your

Which swaddle will be best for you and your newborn? Every baby is different, so you might need to experiment a little to find the swaddle that's the best fit. And go ahead and choose a swaddle that also looks adorable on your cute little one!

So, What Is Babylist?

Babylist is a free, all-in-one baby registry that lets you add any item from any store, as well as things like help, favors and cash funds. Your registry should be as unique as you are. Start your Babylist now.

This information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Babylist may earn compensation from affiliate links in this content. Learn more about how we write Babylist content and the Babylist Health Advisory Board.

Best Swaddle for Baby Who Can Roll Over

Source: https://www.babylist.com/hello-baby/best-swaddles

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