Why does my baby keep breaking out of the swaddle?
‧Your baby’s arms and legs are getting stronger, and they’re starting to feel the urge to move around.
‧If the swaddle is too tight, your baby feels uncomfortable; if it’s too loose, they’ll break free in seconds.
‧Some babies naturally don’t like the feeling of being restricted or wrapped up.
How to keep your little escape artist snug and secure in the swaddle
Method 1: Swaddle below the shoulders with the arms slightly bent.
Keeping the arms completely straight makes it easier for babies to break free — leaving a slight bend actually helps keep the swaddle more secure.
Method 2: Leave room around the lower body.
If the legs are wrapped too tightly, babies will resist — giving the hips space to move can reduce struggling.
Method 3: Swaddle after your baby gets sleepy.
Swaddling while your baby is drowsy or half-asleep usually works better than trying to do it when they’re fully awake.
How to Use a Muslin Swaddle Blanket
- Lay the swaddle blanket flat and fold the top corner down into a diamond shape.
Place your baby in the center, with their head above the blanket and their shoulders inside the swaddle.. - Fold the left side of the swaddle across your baby’s body toward the right, then tuck it underneath your baby’s left side and arm.
- Fold the bottom corner of the swaddle upward to cover your baby’s feet.
- Fold the right side of the swaddle across your baby’s body toward the left, then tuck the edge in securely to keep it in place.