Use the SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sack. The patented design was created by a nurse and mom, and has been used by hundreds of thousands of happy parents.
Step 1: Start with both mitten cuffs closed. The special half-length sleeves provide partial suppression of the startle reflex to gently transition from a snug swaddle
Step 2: Open one cuff. Keep sleeve opening at wrist. Do not pull arm all the way through. Baby can self-soothe directly on hand.
Step 3: Both cuffs open. There will be no suppression of the startle reflex in the upper body, and sleeves are now elbow length. Take your time getting to this step while baby’s startle reflex starts to fade (around 4-6 months).
When should I stop swaddling baby?
Usually babies are ready to transition from snug swaddling around 2-3 months, but they may still have a strong startle (Moro) reflex – those jerky movements or arm flyouts - that causes awakenings, and won’t sleep well in a big loose sleeping sack.
Our Transitional Swaddle Sacks have a unique arms-up design with fold over mitten cuffs on half-length sleeves. These little sleeves have a big purpose! With both mitten cuffs closed (the first step in weaning baby from the swaddle), the sleeves provide partial suppression, or quieting, of the startle reflex which helps babies sleep better. And if baby rolls over, the sleeves allow enough mobility for baby to push torso up and reposition their head, so they have access to air.
Babies who are able to roll over or are showing signs of starting to roll over from back to tummy should no longer be swaddled in a traditional swaddle with arms fully restrained.
When your baby sleeps well with both cuffs open (around 4-6 months), you know they are ready for a loose fitting, sleeveless zzZipMe Sleeping Sack.
Our Transitional Swaddle Sacks are made from premium stretchy cotton to reduce the risk of overheating. Our handy 2-way zipper makes diaper changes easy without needing to fully undress baby.
Some babies like to sleep with their arms up by their head and sleep well that way from their very first day. The Transitional Swaddle Sack is great for these babies, as well, and will keep baby’s arms covered, and hands covered to prevent facial scratches.
Our collection of Transitional Swaddle Sacks come in a variety of prints and colors, including sweet animal motifs, stripes and modern heathered gray.
SwaddleDesigns Transitional Swaddle Sack was created by a nurse and mom, and has been used by hundreds of thousands of happy parents.