Wrapping (swaddling) can help some newborns settle by calming the startle reflex. It isn’t essential, and not every baby likes it. If you do wrap, these steps follow the safe sleeping guidance from Red Nose Australia and hip advice from Healthy Hips Australia. Always check their websites for the latest guidance.
1. Choose a light, breathable wrap
Pick a lightweight cotton or muslin wrap, about 120 × 120 cm, so you can tuck it securely without bulk. Avoid thick or padded fabrics, and never use weighted wraps or sleep products.
120 × 120 cm cotton muslin · from A$23.95View
2. Lay it out as a diamond
Spread the wrap on a flat surface like a diamond and fold the top corner down. Lay your baby on their back with their shoulders level with the fold, so the wrap stays below the neck and nothing can ride up over the face.
3. Snug at the chest
Bring one side across the body and tuck it under. It should be firm enough not to loosen, but you should still be able to slide a hand between the wrap and your baby’s chest so breathing isn’t restricted.
4. Loose at the hips
Fold the bottom up loosely, then bring the other side across and tuck it in. Your baby’s legs should be able to bend up and out at the hips in a natural “frog” position. Tight wrapping with the legs held straight can affect healthy hip development.
5. Always on their back
Place your wrapped baby on their back in a safe cot, with their face and head uncovered, no loose bedding, pillows, bumpers or soft toys, and a room temperature that keeps them comfortable rather than hot.
When to stop wrapping
Stop wrapping as soon as your baby shows signs of starting to roll, which for many babies happens somewhere around four to six months, sometimes earlier. A wrapped baby who rolls onto their tummy may not be able to move back. From then on, a safe baby sleeping bag with a fitted neck, armholes or sleeves and no hood is a good next step.