Table of Contents
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What is Swaddling and Why Do Babies Love It?
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When Should You Start Swaddling?
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How Many Swaddles Do You Really Need?
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How to Choose the Right Swaddle
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Step-by-Step: How to Swaddle Safely
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Final Thoughts
If you’re a first time parent, you’ve probably heard the word swaddle thrown around a lot. Everyone swears by it. Midwives, friends, even that parenting blog you stumbled upon at 3 AM. But what’s the big deal about wrapping your baby like a tiny burrito? And how do you know if you’re doing it right?
This guide covers everything you need to know: what swaddling is, why it works, when to start, and how many swaddles you’ll actually need in a day.
What is Swaddling and Why Do Babies Love It?
Swaddling is an old aged practice of wrapping your newborn snugly in a lightweight blanket to help them feel safe and secure, like they did in the womb.
Benefits of swaddling:
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Reduces the startle reflex (so they stay asleep longer)
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Keeps babies warm without loose blankets in the crib
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Helps soothe fussiness and crying
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Creates a cozy, womb-like environment
When Should You Start Swaddling?
You can swaddle your baby right from birth, as long as they’re healthy and full-term. Most parents swaddle until their baby starts showing signs of rolling over or outgrows the need for it (whichever comes first).
How Many Swaddles Do You Really Need?
This is where many first time parents are caught off guard. Between spit-ups, diaper leaks, and general baby messes, one swaddle is never enough.
On average, you’ll go through 2–4 swaddles a day, depending on:
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How often your baby spits up
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Whether you use swaddles for outings or just sleep
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If you also use them as a stroller shade or nursing cover
Joey&Mom Tips: Having at least 6–8 swaddles means you’re never scrambling for a clean one at bedtime.
How to Choose the Right Swaddle?
When picking swaddles, think beyond just cute prints. Look for:
1. Breathable fabric: Muslin is often considered the best for breathability. Fabrics like bamboo and cotton are the most popular choices. Cotton is durable and easy to wash, while bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic and cooling — perfect for keeping your baby comfortable and reducing the risk of overheating (especially in Malaysia’s always summer weather).
2. Size matters: A larger swaddle grows with your baby and is easier to wrap. It gives you more room to adjust as your baby gets bigger, while still keeping them snug and secure without feeling too tight.
3. Softness: Baby skin is delicate, so opt for fabrics that get softer with every wash. The smoother the fabric, the more comfortable your baby will feel, and the more you’ll love reaching for it every time.
(At Joey&Mom, our swaddles are designed with parents in mind. Lightweight, oversized, and gentle on baby skin, while still stylish enough to use beyond the newborn stage.)
Step-by-Step: How to Swaddle Safely
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Lay the swaddle flat on a safe surface and fold it in half to form a large triangle.
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Place your baby in the middle of the triangle with shoulders just below the top edge.
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Fold one corner across the baby's body and tuck it snugly under their opposite arm and back.
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Bring the bottom corner up over the baby's feet and tuck it gently under the shoulder area (leave hips loose for healthy movement).
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Fold the last corner across and tuck it under the baby's back to secure it.
Safety reminder: Always place the baby on their back to sleep, and never swaddle too tightly around the hips or chest.
(Swaddle tutorial: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOLRrs6kfW0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== )
Final Thoughts
Swaddling is more than just a baby trend, it’s a tried and true comfort tool for newborns and parents alike. The key is finding swaddles that are breathable, soft, and versatile enough to keep up with everyday life.
Whether you’re in the hospital, at home, or on the go, having a few high quality swaddles on hand can make all the difference in those first precious months.
(Psst… if you’re still on the hunt for ones that tick all the boxes, Joey&Mom swaddles are designed for real life, big, breathable, and beautiful enough to keep using long after the baby grows out of the wrap stage.)
Shop Joey&Mom swaddles here: https://joeyandmom.com/collections/swaddle
