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Swaddle Blankets: A Comparison
by Pamela Brill and The Cradle


Nothing beats the feeling of being warm, snug and cozy when you’re a newborn. And since pregnancy “only” lasts nine months — poor baby! — swaddling can make your little one feel like she’s still in the womb. Swaddling blankets have been lauded for their comfort, security and ability to soothe even the most colicky baby. But with so many choices out there, which blanket is right for your baby?

Below is a round-up of some of the most popular swaddling blankets. Take a look and select the one that meets your baby’s needs. Now that’s a wrap!

Miracle Blanket
Swaddle Me
Swaddle Desgins
Luna Lullaby/Aden + Anais

 
click to open chart

Miracle Blanket

Some new parents really do swear that this blanket works miracles in getting your baby to sleep!

  • Has little flaps to help hold arms in a secure place and a “pocket” for their feet (helps to control newborn twitches and flinches that may wake baby)
  • The longer material is meant to keep wrapping around your baby (almost like a burrito!) to provide gentle pressure around your baby’s belly (helps with fussiness)
  • Fits newborns up to several months – one size fits all
  • Available in a variety of pastel colors
  • No snaps, buttons, zippers, or straps
  • Made of 100% cotton knit
Wrap-up: Even Houdini would have a tough time getting out of this blanket.
 
 
SwaddleMe from Kiddopotamus

  • Velcro closures
  • Offers a swaddling traveler version (with built-in legs that accommodate 3- and 5-point harness systems in infant car seats, strollers, and swings)
  • Easy diaper changes without having to un-swaddle your baby
  • Available in large, small, and preemie
  • Fabrics include:
    • 100% cotton knit solids
    • Bamboo (for the eco-conscious parent)
    • 100% certified organic cotton
    • Microfleece
    • 100% cotton flannel
    • Velboa (their “luxe” faux-fur infant wrap)
Wrap-up: For those who may be confused by the whole swaddling experience, the Velcro closures may make it simple and easy.
 
 
Swaddle Designs

  • Large, square blanket
  • One size fits all
  • Comes with helpful swaddling instructions sewn right onto the blanket
  • Available in a variety of prints and colors (pastels, polka dots)
  • Fabrics include:
    • Soft, pre-shrunk cotton flannel
    • Certified organic flannel
    • Marquisette fabric (a lightweight open weave that works well in warmer temperatures) – this is their “Summer Swaddle”
Wrap-up: The sewn-in instructions are extremely helpful when first learning how to swaddle your baby.
 

Luna Lullaby and Aden + Anais

Both of these swaddle blankets are made with a muslin material.
  • Soft, breathable, stretchy lightweight muslin fabric
  • One size fits all
  • The open weave lets air circulate (so your baby’s body temperature can adjust naturally)
  • Large in size (ideal for both newborns and bigger babies)
  • Available in a variety of colors and patterns


What’s the difference between the two?

Luna Lullaby

Aden + Anais

Comes with an instructional DVD that offers two techniques demonstrated step by step, including a Q & A with baby expert Corky Harvey, MS, RN, CLC.

Blankets come in a 3-pack.

Offers a Winter Warmth collection (double-layered blankets).

Blankets come in either a 2-pack or 4-pack.

Wrap-up: The muslin material will keep your baby from overheating. You can even throw it over your stroller when out for walks to keep the sun out of baby’s eyes (and to keep the paparazzi at bay!), or throw it over you and your baby when you’re nursing.
 

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