What is a Muslin?
Geposted von Francesca Bachmann am
Large muslins have become increasingly popular and are more versatile versions of the smaller muslin square (usually sized 120cm x 120cm). They have a number of uses, including:
- For swaddling
- As lightweight baby blankets
- For feeding (as you would a small muslin square)
- As breastfeeding covers
- As liners to go over the top of cot sheets, pram mattresses and moses baskets/sleeping pods
- To put on the floor during play time in case your baby is sick or over the plastic changing mat to make it more comfortable for your baby.
These are just a few of the many uses - they are incredibly adaptable and you will find that the way in which you use them changes as baby grows.
What is swaddling?
Swaddling is a traditional practice of wrapping a baby up gently in a light, breathable blanket to help them feel calm and sleep. They should only have their body wrapped and not their neck or head. The idea is that being swaddled will help your little one feel snug and secure, like how they felt in the womb.
What are the benefits of swaddling your little one?
Often people say swaddling seems to help calm their little one, helping them settle more easily and sleep for longer. It’s thought that swaddling prevents unnecessary wake-ups caused a baby’s startle reflex. This is because a swaddled baby’s arms and legs will be contained as they’re wrapped gently in a blanket. That means they will be less likely to startle themselves awake.
The idea is that the first three months of your baby’s life is a complex transition period for them after they emerge from the womb to the outside world. Considering this, it makes sense that babies would enjoy being wrapped gently (not too tightly) so they feel secure like they did in the womb. So, if you’re considering swaddling your baby, make sure you always follow safe swaddling guidelines to protect your little one.
