When and How to Transition Your Baby Out of the Swaddle
For the first few months, swaddling provides your baby with the security and comfort that reminds them of the womb. If you are still early on in your swaddling journey then refer to this blog on “Why You Should Swaddle Your Baby and How?”.
Transitioning from a swaddle is a significant milestone and can be challenging to know when to make this change. This blog explores signs to look out for before transitioning out of the swaddle. We will also talk about alternatives to the swaddle and how to make this transition possible.
When to transition out of the swaddle?
The right time to stop swaddling your baby is around 8-10 weeks or when they show signs of rolling. The signs of rolling can include but are not limited to:
Your baby pushes up on their arms and lifts their head and chest.
Your baby rocks from side to side while lying on their back.
Vigorous kicking because it can help your baby gain momentum for rolling over.
Your baby pulls their legs up to their chest, often rolling onto their side.
Your baby starts to twist their torso and shoulders to initiate the rolling motion.
If you notice any of these during their awake windows or even catch it in the baby monitor while they are sleeping then start the transition out of the swaddle. Some babies start showing signs of rolling as early as 2-3 months. That is why transitioning out of the swaddle before they start rolling gives you a good timeframe to transition gradually rather than cold turkey.
Key indicators to dropping the swaddle include:
Rolling: When babies start rolling, their arms must be out to prevent suffocation.
Fighting the Swaddle: If your baby frequently fights the swaddle, it might be time for a change.
Breaking Out: Babies breaking out of the swaddle signal that it may no longer be effective.
Decreased Moro Reflex: Once the startle reflex diminishes which is around 3-4 months, the swaddle may no longer be necessary. However, some babies may still have this till 4-5 months which makes it a less reliable indicator.
How to transition out of the swaddle?
Transitioning out of the swaddle can be approached in various ways:
Gradual Transition: Start with one arm out for a few days for naps and nights. Then put that arm back in and leave the other arm out for naps and nights. Then leave both arms out for naps and nights. Make these changes across about 1.5-2 weeks to take a gradual approach. This helps the child sleep snuggly, while also allowing for movement which increases safety.
Cold Turkey: Remove the swaddle for both nights and naps if your baby can fully roll over or has even started showing signs of rolling over. This is best for babies who move a lot during sleep.
Once your baby is out of the swaddle, expect more movement in the crib. Keep laying them on their back and remember that it’s okay if they roll onto their side or tummy when they do it themselves. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that you don’t have to flip your baby back onto their back once they’re rolling both ways. But if your parent gut says to flip them over then DO IT.
This is also a great time to transition them from their bassinet to a crib to allow them to have more room to roll around. Expect more movement in the crib once your baby is out of the swaddle. Continue laying them on their back and transition them to a crib either in their room or keep them in your room.
What are alternatives to swaddles?
So what can you place your baby in besides a swaddle? You can continue to use their swaddle if it transitions to a sleep sack. Several do like the transitional swaddles listed inside my free favorite products guide. Some other items can include:
Transition swaddle: Arms and legs are enclosed in a zippered sack, but have room to move to help child roll over as needed. This one also is great if your baby needs to be out of the swaddle but still has a strong moro reflex.
Swaddled chest strap: This transition swaddle grows with your baby and gives you the flexibility to use it while gradually transitioning them out with arms out method or provide a snug fit when doing the cold turkey switch.
Sleep Sack: This sleep sack covers your baby’s legs while leaving their arms free. This is a great option as it is safe to use as your baby grows, so getting them used to it while they are young could be beneficial. It is usually recommended to keep them in a sleep sack until they transition out of the crib (closer to age 3) since it helps to prevent them from climbing out whenever that time comes and provides warmth before they can use a blanket which is closer to age 2.
Why Make The Transition?
The primary reason for transitioning out of a swaddle is safety. The AAP recommends stopping swaddling when the baby starts rolling to prevent suffocation and SIDS risks. Some other benefits of transitioning the baby out of the swaddle include:
Safety: Reduces the risk of suffocation once the baby starts rolling.
Improved Mobility: Allows the baby to move freely, aiding in motor development.
Better Sleep Positioning: Encourages safe sleep practices, such as sleeping in other positions.
Self-Soothing: Helps the baby learn to self-regulate especially if they need their hands to self-soothe.
Comfort and Growth: Supports natural growth and development, offering comfort with alternative sleepwear like sleep sacks.
It is important to understand that all babies reach milestones at their own pace, so it is important that you pay attention to the signs of your baby starting to roll. Once you notice their first signs, then start to make the transition from a swaddle following our tips of gradual transition or cold turkey for their safety and your peace of mind. But if you do not notice any signs of rolling by 10 weeks then start to make the switch gradually to one of the alternatives mentioned inside this blog.
For a full list of our favorite products, please refer to the Nested to Rested Sleep Consulting Amazon Storefront.
Have more questions on swaddling your baby? Leave a comment below and allow us to help.