Swaddling is the practice of tightly wrapping a newborn or slightly older infant in a blanket or special swaddler, to help them sleep better.

Swaddling is where you wrap your baby so that their arms and legs are kept in place to prevent them 'startling' themselves awake. It is common to commence swaddling very soon after your baby's birth. If you newborn is restless or has trouble falling asleep, they are probably a good candidate for swaddling - or at least give it a go.

Not all babies like to be swaddled. They prefer to have their limbs free - and if you do swaddle them, they will cry and become very unsettled. The only way to find out your baby's preference is by experimenting.

Perhaps the easiest way to swaddle these days is by buying special swaddling blankets. Baby Zone Direct stock 3 different types:

Swaddle Me Wraps

Love To Swaddle Up

Smart Swaddles

They look different, but they have one thing in common, they make swaddling easy!

If you do decide to swaddle when your newborn just won't sleep without it, there are a few things you need to know about safety. It is important to check whether your baby is getting too hot, because overheating can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). If they are sweating on their neck or back, it is time to take off some clothes or get a thinner swaddling blanket. In addition, swaddled babies must always lie on their back, and not be placed on their side or tummy for the same reasons.

Did you swaddle or not swaddle your baby? Share your experience with us.