When is it time to transition out of the swaddle?

Benefits of a swaddle

When is it time to transition out of the swaddle?

For the first nine months of life, babies are accustomed to the cozy embrace of the womb.

The swaddle mimics this snug environment, providing comfort and promoting safe sleep for newborns.

why does a swaddle help

Swaddling serves multiple purposes: it calms the startle reflex (Moro reflex), soothes fussiness, and encourages deeper sleep.

Newborns sleep A LOT, but they also need support to help them fall and stay asleep. By limiting sudden movements, the swaddle helps babies feel secure, reducing disruptions during sleep. Our newborn sleep and feeding guide is full of education and tips to help you get better sleep in the first 3 months!

more about the Moro reflex

The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, typically diminishes around 3-4 months of age.

A swaddle aids in managing this reflex, but it’s crucial to transition out of the swaddle when your baby starts showing signs of rolling.

Swaddling is soothing

Swaddling is part of Dr. Harvey Karp’s “5 S’s” method for soothing babies, alongside side or stomach positioning, shushing, swinging, and sucking. It can be used for both daytime naps and overnight sleep to soothe a fussy baby and promote longer stretches of rest.

when should you use a swaddle?

Swaddling should be done for both naps and overnight sleep. Swaddling will not prevent your baby from waking up due to hunger, but will promote longer stretches of sleep overnight and longer naps during the day.

Many babies wake during sleep cycle transitions. As they enter a lighter stage of sleep the startle reflex is more likely to be activated. The swaddle helps to dampen this reflex thus helping your baby stay asleep for longer stretches. 

If you deliver in a hospital, the nurses are some of the best to learn from on how to do a tight fitting swaddle! Trust me, many babies can wiggle and squirm out of them during active sleep. Practicing or watching a how to video before baby arrives is highly suggested as there is an art to it!

when is it time to transition out of the swaddle

When your baby begins to show signs of rolling, you need to remove the swaddle. This is typically around 2-4 months of age. 

Once a baby is rolling, it is no longer safe for their arms and legs to be confined in a tight wrap and they should transition to a traditional sleep sack. 

Some bassinets such as the Snoo come with a built in swaddle. More than likely at the same time baby is learning to roll, they also hit a growth spurt that will require them to move out of the Snoo, both for more room & safety. If your little one has become reliant on the Snoo and swaddle, begin using the wean mode to help reduce the motion incrementally each night. 

Even if your baby is not showing signs of rolling by 4 months, we do recommend starting to make the swaddle transition to help promote self soothing and movement in the crib.

Many babies prefer to sleep on their side or tummy which can help improve their sleep! Remember to always place your baby on their back for sleep in a crib that is free of other objects throughout the first year, but if they roll independently they can sleep in that position.

swaddle transitions

Transitional options can be helpful if your baby still has a startle reflex that is impacting their sleep.

I recommend the Magic Merlin Suit or The Dreamy Peach Co Sleep Sack (10% off code: wellrested) or Swaddle Sleeves.

These can be helpful before babies start rolling. These provide a sense of comfort while allowing for more movement.

If you have a baby that is able to kick their way out of the swaddle early on, this may be a route to take until they are rolling.

Weighted sleep sacks are not safety approved.

See my full list of traditional sleep sack recommendations Here!

what to expect when you transition out of the swaddle?

Transitioning from a swaddle to a sleep sack may take a few nights to a couple of weeks. Babies may need time to adjust to the new sensation and freedom of movement.

You can slowly transition by removing 1 arm out at a time starting with naps. This slower approach may help them adjust more naturally to the change.

Follow our step by step guidance for the swaddle transition in the 3 to 4 Month Sleep PDF Guide.

benefits of a sleep sack

• Cues your baby’s brain that it’s time for sleep and becomes a part of their routine
• Provides a safe alternative to a blanket by providing an extra layer of warmth and comfort
• Will help prevent them from climbing out of the crib when they are older

need more support

Rolling, transition out of the swaddle, crib sleep- You heard me, it’s a lot all at once! There is no better time than now to teach a baby how to sleep independently. Our 1:1 sleep coaching plans and The Well Rested Sleep Course will help support you on this journey to falling asleep independently, weaning night feeds, sleeping through the night, and lengthening naps when your baby turns 3-4 months!