Understanding The Next Steps For Baby Sleep After Using A Transition Swaddle
A transition swaddle is great for babies who are transitioning out of their swaddle, but need the security of swaddling to go to sleep and stay asleep. Most babies will use swaddle transition products for a few months, so what do you do when they outgrow swaddles all together?
Keep reading as we explore what comes after the transition swaddle.
What comes after the transition swaddle?
After the transition swaddle, you can move onto a sleep sack. Before we cover sleep sacks, let’s take a minute to review transition swaddles.
The transition swaddle is ideal for babies that are starting to roll over. They allow babies to move their legs and arms freely while still providing the womb-like comfort of a swaddle that helps them sleep soundly at night.
Transition swaddles typically feature a roomy design at the bottom so babies can move their legs and their arms are free. Some transition swaddles may feature a hand covering to prevent your baby from scratching skin. Next level transition swaddles will also feature a weighted element to help calm the baby. Sleep sacks too can be weighted to promote better, longer sleep.
The sleep swaddle transition typically lasts only a few months. It can start as early as two months and end as late as nine months, but it usually accounts for a three-month period in total.
Now, let’s dive into sleep sacks.
What is a sleep sack and what are they used for?
Sleep sacks are similar to transition swaddles in that they wrap around the baby’s legs to provide them with womblike comfort while giving them room to move. However, unlike the transitional swaddles, the baby’s arms are totally free. The sacks typically do not include hand coverings or weighted sleeves that inhibit movement.
A sleep sack doubles as a wearable blanket and should stay on no matter how much your baby moves. This will ensure your baby stays warm and comfortable through the night. Similar to a swaddle, sleep sacks can help regulate your baby’s temperature throughout the night. Well-designed sleep sacks will be lightweight and breathable so they can be worn year-round. Sleep sacks eliminate the need of having to place blankets in your baby’s crib which can increase the risk of SIDS.
What is the difference between a sleep sack and a swaddle?
A swaddle wraps around your baby’s body. It keeps their hands and arms tightly in place and mimics the experience of being in the womb.
A sleep sack allows for more movement. It lets the legs kick around freely and it does not restrict the arms.
How do you know when your baby is ready to move on to sleep sacks?
Babies will all develop at their own pace. While there are recommended ages for transitions, it’s best to observe your little one's behavior to determine when to transition to a sleep sack. It will mostly depend on their progress rolling over.
When your baby is newborn, they won’t have the strength to roll over at all. Therefore, they will stay safe and swaddled all night long as they sleep like a baby. #goals
But, around 4 months, your baby will probably start rolling over. In some cases, babies can start rolling over as early as 2 months or as late as 6 months. When they start rolling over it will be time for a transition swaddle.
At around 6 months your baby should be able to roll over completely. When you notice this mobility, it’s time to graduate your baby to a sleep sack.
How do you transition your baby from a transition swaddle to a sleep sack?
Most babies will have no problem transitioning out of their transition swaddle. Others may fuss because they are not used to having their arms completely free.
The key is patience, and slowly introducing the sleep sack into their nighttime and nap time routines. Also, the use of long sleeve pajamas under the sleep sack helps maintain the comforting feeling they got from the transition swaddle.
How do you choose the right sleep sack for your baby?
There are several characteristics to look for when choosing a sleep sack for your baby, including. . .
- Soft breathable materials: The sleep sack should have a buttery soft feel that instantly comforts your child to sleep.
- Safety: Safety is a major concern. The sleep sack should not have any pieces that your baby can choke on or get scratched with.
- Weighted: A weighted sleep sack can provide even more comfort which will help your baby fall asleep faster and make them less likely to wake up through the night.
- Size: Some sleep sacks are sized while others are one size fits all. A one size fits all option may last longer, but it will be too small for your baby at some stages and too big at others. You are best off with a sleep sack that fits their body.
- Design: Most parents prefer a sleep sack design that allows for convenient diaper access and easy on off.
When it comes to sleep sacks and swaddles, you can count on Dreamland Baby to meet all your needs while keeping your baby safe and sound asleep.
Why choose the Dreamland Baby Weighted Sleep Sack?
Dreamland Baby’s Weight Sleep Sack will be all that you dreamed of and more. Our sleep sacks feature CoverCalm® technology ensuring even weight distribution from your baby’s shoulder to toes. Dreamland’s unique design will give your baby a feeling of security and comfort - just like a hug. Designed in collaboration with pediatricians, NICU nurses, and certified sleep consultants, Dreamland Baby prioritizes safety and healthy development. Our sleep sacks are made from soft, breathable, and non-toxic premium materials that your baby will love. The weighted component is proven to help your baby feel calmer, thus aiding them to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. . . Now that’s the dream isn’t it?
