7 Must-Have Baby Swaddles to Help Baby Sleep All Night

If you're like most bleary-eyed parents of infants, some more sleep would be welcome. Swaddling is one way to help settle your baby so that you can both get some much-needed rest. We picked out the best swaddles for newborns, ranging from traditional blanket swaddles to sleep sack-style options.

Why Swaddle? Everything You Need to Know About Swaddling

A favorite among parents, swaddling is a popular practice in many cultures. Swaddling babies helps comfort them, reminding them of the tight, cozy environment of the womb. When swaddled, babies are less likely to awaken themselves with the startle reflex (when they lift their arms suddenly).

Research shows that swaddling promotes quiet sleep and longer sleep periods. Plus, they can help soothe your baby when fussy.

Safe Swaddling

Although swaddling can be helpful, it also poses some disadvantages. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages parents to practice safe swaddling. Some tips include:

• Ensure the swaddle won't get loose while baby sleeps.
• Place baby on their back for sleeping.
• Stop swaddling when your baby shows signs of rolling.
• Prevent hip dysplasia by not forcing baby's legs into a straight position.

Babies can start rolling over as young as 2 months of age. At this point, it's safer to use a wearable blanket or similar so that your baby's space is free of loose bedding. Your baby's crib should not include blankets until they are at least 1 year old.
Also, when baby can roll over, it's best if their arms are free. This way, they can safely reposition themselves during sleep.

Top 7 Best Baby Swaddles

We've selected some of parents' favorite swaddles.

To find the best swaddle for your needs, consider the size and age of your baby. Also, consider your preference. Some swaddles are a blanket that you'll need to learn to wrap, while others feature zippers or velcro for simple swaddling.

1. Best Velcro Swaddle: Halo 100% Organic Cotton Swaddle 

Looking for a better night’s sleep? 98% of parents reported better sleep for their infants when using Halo’s SleepSack swaddle. 

This versatile swaddle offers several options. Let your baby’s arms out or tuck them in. For babies that like to suck their thumb, swaddle your baby’s hands close to their face. 

Halo also designs swaddles and sleep sacks to keep your baby at a comfortable temperature. This organic cotton swaddle has a TOG of 1.5, which means it’s ideal for a room temperature of 68 to 72 degrees. 

Features:

• Ideal for 0 - 6 months, several sizes
• 3 ways to swaddle
• Secure with a zipper and Velcro 

2. Best Sleep Bag for Temperature Regulation: Woolino 4 Season® Baby Sleep Bag

Snuggle your baby in the coziest sleep sack. Made of merino wool and organic cotton, your baby will sleep comfortably, no matter the season. Merino wool naturally regulates body temperature, keeping baby warm in the cold and cool when it’s warm. 
The best part? You won’t have to get your baby used to multiple sleep bags. Use the same size from 2 months to 2 years. Simply use the underarm snaps when your baby is small. 
Woolino thought of everything with this sleep bag. You can even transfer baby into their car seat thanks to the convenient seat belt slats. Diaper changes are also seamless with the bottom zipper. 

Features:

• Ideal for 0 - 4 years, 2 sizes available
• 20 color choices
• Secure with a zipper and shoulder snaps
  

3. Award Winning Swaddle: Love to Dream Swaddle Up™

Baby can enjoy more flexible arm positions with the Swaddle Up. The soft jersey cloth will keep your baby snug without overheating.
It's no wonder Swaddle Up has won awards for its no-hassle design featuring a double zipper and soft fabric. The swaddle won a silver in the "Made for Mums" awards in 2023.

Features:

• Ideal for 0 - 6 months, four sizes available
• 19 color choices
• Secure with a zipper
  

4. Best Bamboo Swaddle: Mori Newborn Swaddle Sack

Equally adorable and functional, the Mori newborn swaddle sack is made of a combination of bamboo and organic cotton. Wrapping your baby in this butter-soft sack is easy. Arm snaps make it simple to enclose or release your baby’s arms. You can unzip from the bottom for no-hassle diaper changes. 

Features:

• Ideal for 0 - 3 months (from 5 to 12 pounds)
• 5 color choices
• Secure with a concealed zipper and snaps
  

5. Best Preemie Option: ergoPouch Cocoon Swaddle Sack

Many swaddle sacks come in one size or sizes meant for several months of wear. The Cocoon offers more specific sizing, including for babies as small as 4 pounds. You can size up as your baby grows, ensuring the right fit.
The ergoPouch Cocoon is stretchy and offers two ways to wear. Tuck arms in or out depending on baby's preference. You can also purchase a Butterfly Cardi adapter for a hands-up swaddle adaptation.

Features:

• Ideal for 0 -  12 months, 4 size options including for preemies!
• 6 color choices plus limited edition prints
• Secure with a two-way zipper
  

6. Best Lightweight Sleep Sack Swaddle: Kaiya Baby Sleeveless Sleep Sack

Some babies are sweaty sleepers, like my daughter. For warm nights, you want the comfort of a sleep sack without the heat. The Kaiya Baby Sleeveless Sleep Sack is made of ultra-soft organic cotton. Simply zip it up for a cozy night's sleep.
Worried about your baby's temperature? This sack comes with a temperature-sensing sticker that changes color so you know when to add or remove a layer.

Features:

• Ideal for 0 -  3 years, 3 size options
• 8 color choices
• Secure with a two-way zipper
  

7. Best Traditional Swaddle: Little Sleepies

Simple, yet adorable, you'll love wrapping your baby in this cozy bamboo swaddle. The swaddle comes with a matching bow or hat.
A true swaddle, the stretchy fabric is easy to adjust to your child's size. After their swaddling days are gone, you can still use the swaddle as a lovey, blanket, nursing cover, or burp cloth.

Features:

• Ideal for infants, measures 44 in x 44 in
• 2 color options
• Traditional wrap swaddle
  

How to Swaddle Your Baby in Just 5 Minutes 

Swaddling your baby with a traditional swaddle is easy to do in under a minute if you're experienced. How does it work?

1. Lay out the swaddle flat. Fold one corner down.
2. Gently place your baby on the swaddle, so their head is just above the folded corner.
3. Secure baby's left arm over their chest. Wrap the left-hand corner of the swaddle over the baby. Gently turn baby slightly on their left arm so you can secure the corner of the swaddle under their back.
4. Pull the bottom corner up over baby's feet without pulling too tightly.
5. Do the same for the right side, pulling the right corner over baby's arm and tuck it under their back.
6. Ensure baby remains sleeping on their back.

This style of swaddle is ideal for newborns and infants who are younger than 2 months old.

The Best Swaddle for Your Baby

Swaddling can be a lifesaver for night-time duty while parenting your newborn. Do you have a favorite swaddle? Let us know in the comments section below.

Sources:

1. Frontiers in Pediatrics

2. American Academy of Pediatrics

3. International Hip Dysplasia Institute