Does your baby HATE bath time? Try Swaddle Baths!

Bath time with your baby should ideally be a time of bonding and relaxation. However, for some parents, it can quickly turn into a stressful experience if their little one protests or cries during baths. If you find yourself facing this challenge, don't worry – you're not alone. Many parents encounter resistance from their babies when it comes to bath time. But before you resign yourself to enduring tears every evening, there's a gentle and effective technique you can try: swaddle baths.

What Are Swaddle Baths?

Swaddle baths involve wrapping your baby securely in a swaddle or light muslin blanket while you bathe them. This technique provides a sense of security and warmth, mimicking the cozy environment of the womb. Swaddle baths are particularly beneficial for newborns and young infants who may feel overwhelmed or unsettled by the sensation of being undressed and exposed in the water.

How to Do Swaddle Baths

1. Gather your supplies: You'll need a swaddle or light muslin blanket, an area to bathe your baby, gentle baby wash (optional), a washcloth, and a towel to dry your baby afterwards. We recommend our award-winning hands-free, wearable baby towels that make lifting and wrapping your baby a breeze.

2. Prepare the bathing area: Find a flat, stable surface – such as a changing table, counter, a sink, or a bath – where you can comfortably bathe your baby. Make sure the room is warm to prevent your little one from getting chilly.

3. Undress your baby & swaddle: Gently undress your baby on a change table. Fold one side of the swaddle/blanket over your baby's body, tucking it snugly under their opposite arm. Then, fold the other side over and tuck it securely as well, leaving their arms free

4. Lower your baby into the water: Carefully lift your swaddled baby and gently lower them into the sink or tub, supporting their head and neck at all times. Make sure the water level is just deep enough to cover their body, but not too high to pose a drowning risk.

5. Bathe your baby: Use a soft washcloth to gently cleanse your baby's face, body, and diaper area with water or mild baby wash. Take your time and be gentle, paying attention to any folds or creases where dirt or moisture may accumulate.

6. 

   Lift your baby out of the water: Once you've finished bathing your baby, carefully remove the swaddle/blanket so that they are completely bare in the water, then lift them out and wrap them in their towel. If you're using our hands-free towel, all you have to do is lift your baby out, place your baby on your chest, tug on the towel to unsnap it and wrap them up. Make sure to wrap them up quickly to avoid heat loss (which can make them cry).

7. Dry and dress your baby: Pat your baby dry with their towel, paying special attention to the creases and folds of their skin. Then, dress them in clean clothes and give them plenty of cuddles and reassurance.

The Benefits of Swaddle Baths

Swaddle baths offer several advantages:

1. Comfort and security: Being wrapped in a swaddle/blanket provides babies with a sense of comfort and security, helping to calm their nerves and reduce stress during bath time.

2. Temperature regulation: Swaddle baths help to maintain your baby's body temperature, preventing them from getting too cold or uncomfortable while in the water

3. Reduced crying and fussiness: Many parents find that swaddle baths help to soothe their baby and minimize crying or fussiness during bath time, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

4. Gentle introduction to bathing: Swaddle baths provide a gentle and gradual introduction to bathing for newborns and young infants, allowing them to acclimate to the sensation of being in the water at their own pace.

If your baby seems to dread bath time, don't despair – swaddle baths may be just the solution you've been searching for. By creating a warm and cozy environment reminiscent of the womb, swaddle baths can help make bath time a more enjoyable experience for both of you. In fact, a recent study found that swaddle baths were effective in maintaining body temperature and helped to reduce crying in infants during bath time. Give it a try, and discover the soothing power of swaddle baths for yourself!