Wrapping a baby's hands during swaddling involves a specific technique to keep them snug and secure while allowing for some movement. Here's how you do it:
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Use a Lightweight Wrap: Opt for a large, square, lightweight cotton muslin or similar breathable fabric designed for swaddling. This helps prevent overheating.
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Lay the Wrap Out: Place the wrap on a flat surface in a diamond shape. Fold the top corner down about 6-12 inches to create a straight edge.
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Position the Baby: Lay the baby face-up on the wrap, with their shoulders just below the folded edge.
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Secure One Arm:
- Straighten one of your baby's arms down gently.
- Bring one side of the wrap across the baby's body and tuck it snugly under the opposite arm and body. This secures one arm. The goal is to keep the arm relatively straight but not rigidly pinned.
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Secure the Other Arm:
- Straighten the baby's other arm down gently.
- Bring the remaining side of the wrap across the baby's body and tuck it snugly under the opposite side. This secures the other arm. Again, aim for a secure yet comfortable fit.
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Secure the Bottom: Fold the bottom of the wrap up and over the baby's feet and tuck it behind their shoulders. Ensure the baby's legs can move freely and aren't tightly wrapped, promoting healthy hip development. A slightly loose bottom allows for natural leg movement.
Important Considerations:
- Hip Health: The International Hip Dysplasia Institute recommends that swaddling should allow for free movement of the legs. Do not tightly wrap the baby's legs together.
- Temperature: Ensure the baby doesn't overheat. Use lightweight, breathable fabrics. Monitor the baby for signs of overheating, such as sweating or flushed skin.
- Looseness: The wrap should be snug enough to prevent the baby from startling themselves awake but not so tight that it restricts breathing or movement. You should be able to place two or three fingers between the wrap and the baby’s chest.
- When to Stop Swaddling: Once your baby shows signs of rolling over (usually around 2-4 months), stop swaddling to prevent them from rolling onto their stomach while swaddled, which could be dangerous.
- Alternative: Some swaddling products like swaddle sacks or wraps with zippers/velcro are designed to safely secure the baby's arms and body, simplifying the process.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively wrap a baby's hands during swaddling, providing them with a sense of security and promoting better sleep.
