The Importance of a Swaddling Blanket

The comfort your newborn is the most important priority of a new parent. Choosing the right swaddling blanket can be a tough decision. So many choices!

A newborn baby needs to be kept warm and comforted. To help them feel safe in the big world he or she has just entered, swaddling is so important. Many use this method to calm a overstimulated baby, and always to comfort them.

You will need a blanket that is warm enough to keep baby warm, yet light enough to not overheat them. Keep in mind that a baby is being held quite a lot, and this will also tend to overheat a baby. A single layer cotton flannel is a wonderful choice. Although all blankets by Bella Bubs are prewashed in Dreft, we recommend that you also prewash your blankets before using them.

Another great reason for swaddling: baby fingernails! Baby can accidentally scratch themselves if given a moment. When the arms are loose and flailing (the startle reflex), baby will not sleep peacefully..who could possibly sleep like that? Swaddling will help baby to sleep more soundly.

In this day and age, while in the hospital, you will most likely get a free lesson on the art of swaddling. First, it’s important to make sure your baby is not hungry, or wet.

How do I swaddle my baby?

1) Lay your flannel blanket on a flat surface, folding down the top corner about 6 inches.

2) Place your baby on the blanket with his/her head on the fold.

3) Pull the corner near baby’s left hand across his body, and tuck the edge under his right arm.

4) Pull the botton corner up under baby’s chin.

5) Bring the loose corner over your baby’s right arm and tuck it under the back of his left side.

If your baby prefers to have his arms free, just swaddle him under his arms. This will allow access to his hands and fingers.

Selecting the perfect baby shower gift. One that will be used with happiness. Bella Bubs offers several unique creations that can mix and matched for the perfect gift.

THE BABY BLANKET. This is important. Baby will grow up with this blanket, take it everywhere and snuggle up in comfort with this blanket. You want the right one. Choose from bright and nostalgic cotton prints to soft luxurious minky fabrics. Beautiful and soft. Handmade especially with those precious moments in mind.

THE BIB. The oh-so important item that will be used every day. Must be durable, comfortable and, yes..cute!

THE BURPIE 2 PACK. Our fabulous hourglass shape makes sure that it won’t fall off your shoulder. Good for your clothes, and cozy for baby’s delicate skin.

THE HOODED TOWEL. The perfect finish to baby (and toddler’s) bath time! Also, a great cover up after swimming.

THE FLANNEL RECEIVING BLANKET 3 PACK. The item no new mother can live without! This will be used from swaddling to everything imaginable. Also available in mini size for clean up on the go!

THE BABY HAT. It doesn’t get better than this! Lush minky hats, cool cotton hats to keep little bub’s head safe from the elements. Choose the basically beautiful to the flower hats..truly a showstopper!

Okay, so you are shopping for that perfect bib. So many from, tiny tie-on bibs to laminated “catch all” bibs..how to choose!!

Baby bibs are really pretty simple. Baby wants to eat. You want to save your little one’s clothing.

In finding the right bib, look for a few important factors. First, the bib needs to be comfortable. While the front is usually a print, the back should be a soft fabric. Minky or cotton chenille are both very popular. Laminated bibs are great for art time, but comfortable? Think about it!

Look for velcro closures, for a perfect fit, and that can be taken off readily and safely.

Size matters! A bib should cover baby and toddler at least to the tummy..that’s wear all the crumbs will fall!

Some bibs contain lining. This is good. Lining will soak up the remnants of feeding (and drooling!) Lining also lengthens the life of the bib wash after wash.

Washing? Wash your bibs in cool water, gentle cycle with a gentle baby soap. Make sure that the velcro is fastened to keep it from catching on other items. Taking good care of your bibs will keep them in tip top shape and good as new!

You are attending a baby shower for a loved one. Want to give a baby blanket? Here are a few helpful hints in choosing a baby blanket.

If you wish to give a baby blanket, think of this. Where will new baby live? In the warmer climates or in the spring to summer months, consider a lightweight blanket. For example, a cotton print with a soft backing, or a minky blanket, with no lining. This will be soft for baby, but light enough that baby won’t overheat. Another great choice: flannel! Flannel has been around for so long, and is still a big favorite. From swaddling precious one, to a light warm weather blanket that will shield from wind and direct sun, flannel blankets are always guaranteed to be used often!

Cooler weather requires a warmer blanket. Minky is a great choice, along with cotton chenille and again, flannel. Look for a blanket that contains a cotton lining, for extra warmth.

Styles vary from traditional to trendy, and pretty much everything in between. Make sure that your gift does not contain beads or appliques that may pose a safety hazard.

Proud to be an American? Look for baby blankets that are Made in the USA.