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Swaddling: How to Comfort your Baby Safely and Naturally

Every new parent knows the challenge: a fussy, restless newborn. You have fed them, changed them, and cuddled them, yet they sometimes just can’t settle. This is where the age-old practice of swaddling comes in as an effective and natural remedy. But what exactly is swaddling, and how can you do it safely and effectively?

The Womb-Like Embrace: Why Swaddling Works 

Imagine being in a warm, secure, and confined space for nine months. After birth, the wide-open world can be startling for your baby. With swaddling, that familiar, comforting feeling of the womb is recreated by providing a gentle, secure hug that makes your baby feel safe and contained. This helps to:

  • Reduce the Startle Reflex: One of the biggest disruptors of newborn sleep is the startle reflex, an involuntary movement where they suddenly throw their arms and legs out. Swaddling keeps their limbs tucked in, preventing them from startling themselves awake.
  • Promote Deeper Sleep: By minimizing disruptions from the startle reflex and creating a sense of security, swaddling can help your baby sleep for a longer and more peaceful period.
  • Soothe Colicky Babies: The gentle pressure from swaddling can also help comfort fussy or colicky babies by helping to calm their nervous system.
  • Regulate Body Temperature: A good swaddle, especially one made from breathable materials, can help maintain your baby’s ideal body temperature.


When a baby feels securely wrapped, they often calm down quicker, cry less, and transition more easily into sleep. It’s a natural way to ease their adjustment to life outside.

Choosing the Right Swaddle Material

In a hot and humid country like Malaysia, the fabric of your baby’s swaddle is important. Overheating is a serious concern, so look for materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking.

Cotton, being a breathable material, is a popular choice for many. However, cotton can retain moisture, which might make your baby feel sticky and uncomfortable in the heat. Bamboo is another good option as it is known for being soft and breathable as well as having some moisture-wicking properties.

However, a more advanced material might be better for babies with very sensitive skin, and for this, Tencel™ is our choice. A high-performance fibre derived from sustainably sourced wood, Tencel™ is exceptionally soft and gentle on a baby’s delicate skin and has superior moisture-wicking and thermo-regulating properties. This means it absorbs moisture more efficiently than cotton and helps to keep your baby cool and dry, preventing irritation and sweat rashes.

Safety First: Swaddling Tips for Peace of Mind

Swaddling is only safe when done correctly. Keep these tips in mind when swaddling your little one:

  • Position: Always place your swaddled baby on their back to sleep.
  • Snugness: The swaddle should be snug but not restrictive. You should be able to fit two to three fingers between the blanket and your baby’s chest.
  • Allow for Hip Movement: Ensure your baby’s hips can move freely. A swaddle that is too tight at the bottom can lead to developmental hip dysplasia.
  • Know When to Stop: Once your baby shows signs of being able to roll over, it’s time to stop. Typically, this could be around 8 to 12 weeks of age. 

By choosing a breathable material like Tencel™ and following these safety guidelines, you can help your baby feel secure, comfortable, and ready for a good night’s sleep.

Embracing Comfort, Naturally

Swaddling is a beautiful journey for both you and your baby, offering a powerful tool for comfort, security, and peaceful sleep. By following safe swaddling practices and choosing blankets made from natural, hypoallergenic materials like Tencel™, you are giving your little one the very best start in life.

At Granny Ben, we understand the importance of safe and natural comfort, which is why our range of baby swaddles and blankets are thoughtfully crafted with premium TENCEL™, designed to provide that gentle, breathable embrace your baby deserves. We invite you to explore our collection today and discover the difference natural comfort can make. 

Nursing & Swaddle Collection

Important note: While swaddling is a popular and effective method for many babies, every child is unique. If your baby seems to dislike being swaddled, or appears uncomfortable, it’s best not to force it. Always prioritize your baby’s comfort and well-being.