You are preparing for your journey through motherhood, you have grown into a beautiful blossoming mom-to-be. Excited about buying new items for your first precious bundle that will soon be entering the world. You feel prepared. You feel ready.
Then someone innocently asks “What blankets are you going to use?” Just like that, the carpet has been pulled! A baby blanket is just a blanket, right? Wrong!
You may already be aware there are different terms for everything when it comes to items gizmos and gadgets for a baby. You are learning fast and trying to understand many ways of doing things for the first time.
Let us take the hard work out of ‘Which blanket is best?’ We have compared both Swaddling and Receiving blankets so you can make the informed decision of which one is going to be right for you.
In this article
Safety of Sleeping Newborns
No one wants to think about the devastating things we hear in the press about newborns passing away due to their sleeping arrangements.
Especially if you are near to bringing your own bundle into the world. As sensitive as it may be this section needs to be addressed as we all know we can never be too prepared.
- Always put your baby on their back to sleep.
- They don’t need a pillow or a quilt.
- Try and put their feet to the bottom of their crib to prevent any wriggling down in the night.
- Ensure their room is at a suitable temperature to prevent overheating.
- Nothing else other than your baby should be in the crib – no toys, cute bears, etc.
- Don’t fall asleep with them in your bed or on the couch.
These tips should be addressed at all times when the baby is asleep not just at night time.
Now that we have looked at some safety tips let’s dive into the blanket scenario. This is where you get to make the best-informed decision on which one is right for you and your baby.
What Are Swaddling Blankets?
These let you wrap your newborn up like a burrito. Usually made with the more luxurious material they take the guesswork out of what goes where as they come equipped with velcro fastenings, poppers or zippers.
Many moms love these and use them as a soothing technique. They can mimic the feeling of your baby still being in the womb and being wrapped up tight can promote security and comfort.
They come in all shapes and sizes but essentially it is a wrap which makes it easier for you to swaddle your baby. There are many available to purchase, from blankets to suits available in a range of designs to suit all.
Plus more and more are being created so you can find the best fit for you and your little one.
- Muslin 70% Bamboo / 30% Cotton.Breathable and comfortable muslin
- 47 X 47 (120 x 120 cm),which is way large enough to easily wrap or swaddle babies from new born infants to toddlers.
- Machine washable, stays softer with every wash.
What Are Receiving Blankets?
These are generally used for all purposes, they are light thin blankets that can be used for swaddling, nursing, burping or just to cover your baby. You find that the blankets that are used in the hospital are usually receiving blankets.
Midwives and doctors would swaddle your baby in a receiving blanket before you receive them for the first time. Kind of where their name came from!
The receiving blanket is very versatile and can come in cotton or fleece. You can use it to swaddle providing you master the technique or just as a cover for when you are out and about.
- 30 x 30”
- Soft, breathable cotton
- Perfect for swaddling, burping or cuddling
- Trusted Carter’s quality, everyday low prices, and hassle-free packag
What Are The Benefits Of Swaddling Your Child?
Many moms prefer to swaddle their baby as they believe it gives their child that extra sense of security they no longer feel when outside the womb. It can be a great transition for your baby to help them get used to their new surroundings.
Swaddling can also prevent premature waking. When a newborn sleeps they have all this new space and are able to stretch out.
Many babies can startle themselves awake. If the baby is swaddled and the baby startles him/herself then having the comfort of being tightly bundled can become a soothing factor.
Using a swaddle also takes the worry out of adjusting the temperature throughout the night. If they are cuddled up they will maintain a good body temperature.
Some Best Buys: Swaddling And Receiving Blankets
Comfy Cubs Swaddle blankets
These swaddling blankets boast that they are easier than the traditional baby blanket. They have a modern design featured in three colors, a leg pocket and a hook and eye design for easy and snug swaddling.
Check out our reviews of Woombie and Love to Dream swaddles.
Check Price
Luvable Friends Cotton Receiving Blankets
These affordable high-quality cotton blankets will be gentle on the baby’s skin and optimal for everyday use. Their versatility is undeniable, use them as a blanket, nursing cover, burp cloth, car seat cover, tummy time play mat, changing pad cover, and much more!
The Final Thought
So we have now looked at both sides of the coin, but what is best for you and your baby is totally your choice.
I think regardless of what you do your baby will be cared for and looked after with a tremendous amount of love and security! Look you have even taken the time to research what blankets are best!
Ultimately you will always end up receiving blankets whether they are given as a gift or you have the one from the hospital so in my opinion, if you want a hassle-free life regarding swaddling I’d opt for a swaddle blanket as well.
I am not dismissing the receiving blanket as it has a huge amount of uses but I think for first-time Swaddlers this could be the best option!
