In developing the NuRoo Swaddler, we studied every Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report issued that related to infant sleep products and read countless research articles on said topics. Because of this, we’ve become well versed in the challenges relating to swaddles and swaddle blankets. The good news is, we’ve engineered them right out of our design but want to pass the learning onto you…
This post is not meant to cause fear around swaddling. Just the opposite, in fact. To quote Maya Angelou, “do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
It would be amiss if we didn’t remind everyone of the amazing benefits of swaddling (did you know they go beyond sleep, too?!) but like anything, there are risks associated if not done properly.
Know these top 3 risks when choosing which swaddle to purchase or when swaddling your baby:
1) The leading documented danger with swaddling is suffocation.
When using a swaddle blanket to wrap baby, it can be difficult to find the right fit and baby is able to break free, or wiggle down into the swaddle, leaving them with loose fabric around their face. To combat this, parents wrap tighter (often too tight). This can compromise baby’s respiratory function by limiting their ability to expand their rib cage and fill their lungs with air.
To alleviate the challenges of wrapping baby in a blanket, form swaddles were created. However, the same concerns can still be applied if the formed swaddle doesn’t fit properly. Take caution with one size fits all offerings and when purchasing a sized swaddle, ditch buying bigger with the thought that baby will grow into it and buy true to size. Baby’s ability to get their arms out of the swaddle and under the wings poses concern by lifting their arms, and raising the winged fabric over their face. Ensure their arms stay snug at their sides or over their chest in the fetal position while swaddled.
2) Improper swaddling may lead to hip dysplasia or developmental dysplasia of the hip.
3) Hyperthermia, or overheating, is when baby’s core body temperature is elevated. Remember that when swaddling, baby is wrapped in an extra layer (the swaddle) and therefore retaining heat. Always make sure baby is dressed properly for the season or room, taking into account the swaddle.
As noted earlier, the NuRoo Swaddler was designed to overcome these challenges. With two interior pockets and a removable seam to extend it’s length, it grows with your baby, offering the perfect fit at every stage.
Learn more at nuroobaby.com.
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