13 Best Swaddles for Babies

New parents might balk at the thought of wrapping their baby up so tightly that they can’t move their arms, but the idea is far from crazy. But according to many parents. Many newborns are rather comforted by swaddled, as they sleep more and cry less when they’re wrapped snuggly. The age-old practice of swaddling involves wrapping a baby securely in a blanket from the neck down. What’s more, both their legs and arms are tucked in tightly. The best swaddles for babies and infants, including muslin ones, mimic how a baby is positioned in the womb. So, there’s very little or no space for their legs or arms to flail around.

Furthermore, keeping the baby wrapped in swaddles helps reduce the Moro reflex, a.k.a. the startle reflex. This involuntary response is when babies are startled by anything, from sudden sounds to no reason. While it disappears by the time they’re three-six months old, swaddling goes a long way in preventing this. So, not only does swaddling help with sudden reflexes, but it also helps both babies and moms score some much-needed Zzzs. To that end, here are the 13 best swaddles for infants and babies, including muslin ones.

The Ollie Swaddle

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One of the best swaddles for babies and infants during summers is The Ollie Swaddle. This swaddle is made from moisture-wicking material, just like top-of-the-line athletic wear for adults. It’s made from 14% spandex and 86% polyester, keeping the baby comfortable thanks to its breathable and lightweight nature. It also helps prevent overheating. What’s more, the Velcro tabs at the top keep it secure, while the elastic tie loop around the bottom keeps it closed around the baby’s feet. When it’s time to change your tot’s diaper, open the bottom. In fact, there’s no need to unfasten the rest of the swaddle. Thanks to the “delicates” laundry bag that comes with it, washing is no issue either.

Aden + Anais Swaddle Blanket

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If you’re looking for a great muslin baby swaddle, then the Aden + Anais Swaddle Blanket is the one for you – or rather, your baby. These muslin baby swaddle blankets score high marks for their versatility. Besides measuring the perfect size and weight for swaddling, they can also be used as burp cloths, nursing covers, tummy time blankets, and more! New mothers will certainly appreciate their versatility. Despite there being no Velcro or any fastener, the size is just right for the baby. Moreover, this muslin baby swaddle is made from soft bamboo muslin, comes in a set of 4 swaddles, and with the options of 18 different prints! Lightweight, beautiful, and soft, these muslin baby swaddle blankets are ideal.

SwaddleMe Original Swaddle 3-Pack

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The SwaddleMe Original Swaddle 3-Pack is one of the best swaddles for babies and infants. If your little one fights the swaddle, then the Velcro fastener on this blanket is a blessing. What’s more, the set has three swaddles, so you can have the baby wear one, put one for wash, and still have one on standby for blowouts and spit-ups. Since it’s made from 100% cotton, your baby can breathe without overheating. The fit is perfect, but they also have two larger sizes for older or bigger babies. It’s easy for parents who’re trying to transition their babies out of the swaddle, too, making this a blessing for new parents.

Love To Dream Swaddle UP

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The Love To Dream Swaddle UP is for those babies who sleep more naturally in the “arms-up” position. This allows them to self-soothe, and this swaddle allows them to do just that. At the same time, it also offers the secure and snug feel of a swaddle, calming startle reflexes and helping them sleep better. Thanks to the simple twin-design zipper, the swaddle is kept secure and makes diaper changing very easy. This, even though there are no Velcro or other fasteners to master. While it’s designed for babies weighing 6.5-13 lbs, it comes in other sizes, too, as well as a variety of prints and colors.

Ergobaby Swaddle Wrap

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The Ergobaby Swaddle Wrap is one of the best swaddles for babies and infants. This swaddle is specifically designed to help prevent hip dysplasia, wherein the baby’s hip joints don’t form properly. The swaddle keeps their arms in a “hands to heart” position and the legs in an ergonomic position, thus promoting healthy hip growth. Thanks to the fasteners, the swaddle is kept securely in place. Plus, there’s even a removable leg pouch that makes diaper changes a breeze. While it’s made from 100% cotton, it comes in a variety of other fabrics and colors as well. Finally, the effectiveness and ease of use of this swaddle are excellent.

Baby Merlin Microfleece Magic Sleepsuit

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The Baby Merlin Microfleece Magic Sleepsuit is perfect for transitioning babies out of the swaddle. AAP and most manufacturers recommend discontinuing using swaddles once babies can roll on their stomachs; after all, babies can’t be swaddled forever. This microfleece “magic” sleepsuit helps make the transition easier. That’s because while babies won’t be able to roll over in it, it will still calm their startle reflexes. While it’s designed for babies who’re 3-6 months old and weigh 12-18 lbs, it comes in larger sizes as well. Thanks to the full legs and arms design, it keeps them cozy and warm without any wrapping. Wrapping up the features are the double zippers and the inner cotton breathable layer.

SwaddleMe Pod, 2-Pack

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The SwaddleMe Pod, 2-Pack is one of the best swaddles for babies and infants who’re preemies. These pod swaddles keep the tiny newborn babies warm and snug. They’re designed very well, weighing 5-12 lbs and zip up the middle. So, there’s no need to fasten, wrap, or indulge in any tricky folding. What’s more, the pack comes with two sacks, one in a sweet pink shade and the other featuring adorable butterflies. If that wasn’t enough, it also comes in an array of other materials, patterns, and colors and bigger sizes for when infants grow. Since they’re made from 93% cotton and 7% spandex, they’re breathable and stretchable. Finally, the two-way zipper makes diaper changes as easy as possible.

HALO Sleepsack Plush Dot Velboa Swaddle

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The HALO Sleepsack Plush Dot Velboa Swaddle is yet another amazing baby swaddle. Halo is a veteran in the sleep-sack business, and this soft, plush swaddle suit is no exception. Firstly, it comes in three pastel colors – blue, pink, and cream. Secondly, it’s made from 100% polyester, but it also comes in many other materials to suit colder or warmer climates. Since it has a zipper up the middle, it makes diaper changes very easy, with adjustable fasteners keeping the swaddle in place. What’s more, it’s versatile too, as you can decide to swaddle your baby in one of three ways – both arms out, hands-to-face, or arms in. It’s no wonder that parents love this swaddle.

Woolino Swaddle Blanket

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The Woolino Swaddle Blanket is one of the best swaddles for babies and infants. This swaddle blanket is rather different from the others on this list and is made from soft, 100% Australian merino wool. Secondly, it’s famed for its moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties. So, it’s a great pick for all kinds of climates and temperatures and can handle a little moisture. Once the baby’s no longer being swaddled, this large blanket can still be used as a sunshade, a nursing cover, or stroller rides.

Anna & Eve Baby Swaddle Strap

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The Anna & Eve Baby Swaddle Strap is another great swaddle wrap for new parents. Whether you’re looking for swaddled that double up or whether you’re looking for an arms-only solution, this swaddle strap is really handy. Basically, it’s an arms-only wrap that stays steady across the baby’s torso. Since it’s made from 100% cotton, it doesn’t stretch over time and can be easily adjusted as your tot grows. Moreover, it’s especially great for warmer temps since it doesn’t cover your kid’s legs. Thanks to the two layers of wrappable Velcro and comfy underarm cushions, the strap is easy to use. The wrappable Velcro also prevents the strap sliding up, making late-night diaper changes a breeze.

Cuddlebug Adjustable Baby Swaddle

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The Cuddlebug Adjustable Baby Swaddle is one of the best swaddles for babies and infants. This baby swaddle might not be made from muslin, but it has a lot of other things going for it. For one, the pack comes with three swaddle blanket wraps, and that too for less than USD 20! Secondly, this CuddleBug swaddle has Velcro wings that hug your baby snugly as they snooze. Thirdly, they don’t have any hard-to-use snaps, buttons, or zippers. It’s no wonder that new parents seem to love this swaddle so much. Finally, the swaddle is made from 100% cotton that’s breathable and features a soft and quiet hook-and-loop closure, letting your tot sleep comfortably through the night.

Gunamuna Sleep Bag Premium Duvet

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The Gunamuna Sleep Bag Premium Duvet is yet another fabulous swaddle blanket. This is perfect for babies who’re a few good months old and need a swaddle that allows their arms to hang out. This one keeps them safe in case they turn over mid-snooze, offering more wiggle room. What’s more, the swaddle is made from an excellent down-alternative fill, wrapped in a soft viscose bamboo-made fabric. Furthermore, it has a four-way zipper allowing for easy diaper changes. If that wasn’t enough, it also has evenly distributed gentle weights that mimic mom’s soothing hold. All in all, it’s great for keeping babies warm and snoozing longer.

Happiest Baby Sleepea 5-Second Baby Swaddle

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The Happiest Baby Sleepea 5-Second Baby Swaddle is one of the absolute best swaddles for babies. This swaddle has been famously designed by Dr. Harvey Karp, who invented the 5 S’s for soothing a baby. The sack-style swaddle keeps your baby asleep for longer periods of time. What’s more, it’s made from 100% organic cotton and features a two-way zipper, a Velcro escape-proof closure, and breathable mesh panels. Moreover, the zipper opens at the bottom and top for easy diaper changes. It’s also practically foolproof to put on, which makes those 3 a.m. feedings and diaper changes a lot more bearable. Finally, they come in various sizes, ensuring the right fit.

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How To Choose The Best Swaddles for Babies?

Design and material

While colors and patterns are always nice, the first factor in evaluating swaddles is functionality. After all, the last thing you’ll want during a 3 a.m. screaming session is 10 pieces of Velcro, cheap zippers, and lots of confusing straps. So, look for swaddles made with high-quality materials that are simple to use. For that, consider the kind of climate you live in and the temperatures around at home. That way, you can determine what kind of material is best for your newborn to stay warm but not feel overheated. Cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics on the market, as is muslin. Seasonal swaddles are made from a thicker material such as fleece, which is more suitable for colder climates. Also, look for fabrics that have some stretch, so they will properly fit your newborn.

Purpose

Since swaddles are only safe until your tot is around the two-month mark or when they start to roll over, you need to figure out why you need the swaddle. For one, not all swaddles are designed for use for newborns, for whom you’ll need to check Velcro swaddles. They help with any startling reflexes. Furthermore, babies will eventually have to learn to sleep without being swaddled. So, there are also swaddles that are designed for the big transition.

Age/size

Swaddles come for different ages and in different sizes, which is another important factor. The right size will keep your tot safe. Too tight ones will make your baby uncomfortable, and too big ones could become a suffocation hazard. 

Is it best to swaddle a newborn?

Blankets such as a muslin baby swaddle snuggly around your baby’s body are akin to a mother’s womb, thus helping soothe newborns. According to AAP, swaddling, when done correctly, can be effective in helping promote sleep by calming infants.

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Should I keep the baby swaddled during night feedings?

Yes, you should keep your tot swaddled throughout their night feeds, re-swaddling again if necessary.

Does swaddling prevent SIDS?

Wrapping and swaddling might help prevent SIDS and suffocation, with doctors and studies contributing to the thought.