how to transition out of the swaddle

Are you stuck with the swaddle and not sure how to stop it!?

Swaddles are a common practice in many places of the world, and while I'm not really "team swaddle" I do think they have a time and place. You can read more about the history of swaddling and all the pros/ cons about it on this blog!

One of my main issues with swaddles, though, is that they can be SO hard to transition out of. You need to stop the swaddle at the FIRST signs of rolling, which can happen by 8 weeks old. The AAP recommends stopping swaddle use at 8 weeks because prolonged use can increase the risk of SIDS if baby rolls over while swaddled.

There are 3 main ways you can ditch the swaddle:

1. Cold Turkey

Simply remove the swaddle from your routine. You could try starting with a nap to practice before bedtime. You could replace the swaddle with a regular sleep sack or just pajamas depending on your climate and home's temperature. This method is sometimes rough for a couple of nights but most will adjust!

2. One Arm at a Time

You could get a swaddle that has the option for arms up/arms out so they can get used to the sensation of arms not being bound down by their sides first.

If you are using an arms-up type like the LoveToDream, you can allow them to sleep with arms up for a few days before removing one of the arms. One arm can be out for another few days, and then you can remove the other.

If you are using a swaddle that allows one arm to be free at a time like the Embe, you can allow one arm to be out of the swaddle wrap for a couple of days, then try both arms out. Your baby will still get the snug feeling in the body of the swaddle, and you can keep that for a bit before transitioning to a regular sleep sack.

3. Just Some Sleeps

You can also practice using the swaddle for some sleeps but not others. Maybe you try ditching it for the first nap of the day or the first stretch of bedtime but keep using it at other times while baby gets more used to it. Wean off of it for more of baby’s naps and nighttime sleep over the course of a few days up to a week or two.

Remember that babies need to STOP being swaddled if:

1. they are bed sharing for any part of the night

2. they are showing signs of rolling back to belly

   • Baby is lifting their head while laying

   • Baby is reaching for toys while on tummy

   • Any sign that neck muscles are getting stronger

3. they are approaching 8 weeks of age

Once your baby is out of the swaddle, how do you dress them for sleep? You can switch out the swaddle for a wearable blanket or “sleep sack” that will keep them warm and cozy but allow free movement. You can check out a few of my favorite swaddles, transition swaddles, and sleep sacks on my Amazon Storefront (affiliate links).

Good luck!

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