Swaddling. It’s a term that every new parent learns almost immediately. Wrapping your baby up like a little burrito can mimic the security of the womb and help limit his or her startle reflex (that jerky movement of the arms and legs, common in the first five months of life). Swaddling babies is common practice. But not all swaddling blankets are created equal.
Go all-in with muslin!
Let’s face it. Babies can be fussy at times. And as a parent, you want to do everything you can to limit your little one’s discomfort. That includes choosing the right blanket for swaddling.
What do we mean by “the right blanket?” Well Moms and Dads, it all comes down to the fabric. Many materials are simply too heavy and harsh for a baby’s delicate skin. Luckily, that isn’t the case with muslin.
Muslin dates back to ancient times and gets its name from Masulipatnam, the port town in India where it was originally traded. The soft cotton fabric remains popular today, especially among new parents. Here are some reasons why so many moms and dads choose to swaddle their wee ones with muslin:
- Natural and breathable. Unlike other materials which can trap a baby’s body heat and prohibit movement, muslin is an incredibly soft and breathable fabric. It’s freely woven, allowing heat to escape and fresh air to enter so your baby can be comfortable and calm.
- Mimics the womb. Muslin swaddle blankets are designed to envelop babies in a gentle, warm environment, similar to that of the womb. The fabric even becomes softer with every wash!
- Helps babies sleep. Everyone knows that sleep is essential to babies. But discomfort can definitely interfere with shut eye. It’s only logical that a soft, temperate womb-like environment can help your baby establish better sleep patterns.
- Aids in breastfeeding. Due to the lightweight design of muslin swaddle cloths, babies can still feel the heat of their mother’s chest during breastfeeding. Soft, snuggly muslin also allows for easy handling of your baby and a very comfortable hold during feeding time.
Other muslin baby care products
Because it’s so durable and gentle on skin, soft, lightweight muslin is also used in other types of baby care products, including:
Aden & Anais Ideal Baby™ Gender Neutral Washcloths are a must for your little one! The super-soft, machine washable cloths are a generous 10″ x 10″! Each 3-pack includes one elephant-, one cloud- and one droplet-patterned washcloth.
Want muslin washcloths designed specifically for little boys? A three-pack of Aden & Anais Ideal Baby™ Boy Washcloths includes some of their favorite patterns: Leaves, monkeys and dinosaurs!
Both you and your messy eater will love Aden & Anais Ideal Baby™ Gender Neutral Burpy Bibs! These soft, breathable bibs feature an adorable gray and white star pattern. Perhaps best of all, they can double as a burp cloth.
Searching for something a little less gender neutral? Check out these adorable Aden & Anais Ideal Baby™ Girl Snap Bibs in a colorful heart pattern!