It may also help calm a colicky baby. It can also help eliminate anxiety in your baby by imitating your touch, which helps your baby learn to self-sooth. It keeps her hands off her face and helps prevent scratching. Swaddling also reduces possibility of SIDS, so it becomes an important safely factor while your baby sleeps.

To swaddle, spread the blanket out flat, with one corner folded down. Lay the baby face-up on the blanket, with her head above the folded corner. Straighten her left arm, and wrap the left corner of the blanket over her body and tuck it between her right arm and the right side of her body.

Some important tips to remember when swaddling:

Consider your baby’s temperature and their environment to prevent overheating. Check their temperature regularly and make sure they are wearing suitable clothes for the weather. Do not swaddle them if they are unwell or have a fever.

Swaddle your baby using thin materials such as a small, cotton sheet Do not place any additional material on top of a swaddled baby, like a blanket which could cause them to overheat. Follow safe sleep guidance, laying your baby on a firm, flat surface clear of any other items.

Don’t swaddle your baby above their shoulders – their neck and head should never be swaddled. Ensure any material is secure and won’t come loose as your baby moves, to avoid suffocation.

Use hip-healthy swaddling techniques to reduce the chance of hip dysplasia. Make sure your baby is able to move their hips and knees freely to kick. Your baby’s legs should be able to fall into a natural position (like frog legs) rather than straight down. 

Always put your baby to sleep on their back. Never put a swaddled baby to sleep on their front or side.

If you use a swaddle product or blanket check that it conforms to safety standards and is well fitted, without damage. Follow the manufacturers guidance on age or weight ratings.

If someone else cares for your baby, make sure they also know about safe sleeping advice and how to swaddle safely. Take time to show them and explain safe swaddling and make sure they know to always put your baby to sleep on their back.