Wrapping can be a useful way to help baby to settle and stay asleep. Wrapping may also help to keep babies in the recommended back position.
Tummy sleeping increases the risk of SIDS and must be avoided. A baby that is wrapped and on their tummy is at increased risk of overheating and suffocation.
When Wrapping a Baby
Use only lightweight wraps made of cotton or muslin (bunny rugs and blankets are not safe as they may cause overheating).
Wraps needs to be firm but not too tight. Wraps that are tight can restrict the movement of the chest. If the wrap keeps the baby’s legs straight and together this may prevent normal hip development, while loose wraps can cover baby’s head and face.
Make sure that baby is not over dressed under the wrap. Use only a nappy and singlet in warmer weather and dress baby in a lightweight grow suit in cooler weather.
When Not to Wrap a Baby
Once a baby starts to show signs of rolling you must make sure their arms are free or stop wrapping altogether. This helps them to help protect themselves if they roll. You can leave arms free once the startle reflex disappears if you baby likes being wrapped.
Most babies eventually resist wrapping but most settle better if they are wrapped.
Babies must not be wrapped if sharing a sleep surface with another person or if you are using a baby sleeping bag.
Stop wrapping when baby shows signs of rolling or reaches 3 months of age.
View the Safe Wrapping Guide Now
Check out the handy Safe Wrapping Guide with step-by-step instructions for how to safely wrap your little one.
To find out more about how to safely sleep your baby, check out the six safe sleep recommendations.
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