Swaddling
Swaddle sack tutorial
A zip or velcro sack is the most escape-proof option and the easiest at 3 AM. Choose one sized to the baby's weight, and never a weighted one.
Right size
Illustrated frame placeholder
Weight range on the label, not age.
Transcript and media source
Full transcript available. Placeholder media for the prototype; production media is sourced only from hospitals, university medical centers, government health agencies, professional medical organizations and certified lactation professionals.
Reviewing clinician: R. Okafor, MSN, RN · Reviewed 2026-05-14 · Captions available
Supplies needed
- ·Correctly sized swaddle sack
- ·Light sleepwear underneath
Safety warnings
- Stop swaddling when the baby shows signs of attempting to roll, and always place a swaddled baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface without loose bedding. Weighted swaddles and weighted sleep sacks are not recommended.
- Do not use weighted swaddles or weighted sleep sacks.
- Do not size up 'to grow into it'.
Step by step
- 1Check the weight range on the label and choose the correct size.
- 2Dress the baby in one light layer; the sack counts as a layer.
- 3Lay the baby on their back inside the open sack, shoulders at the top seam.
- 4Zip from the bottom up so the zipper pull ends away from the chin, or fasten the velcro flaps.
- 5Position the arms as the sack allows: down, or up if it is an arms-up design.
- 6Check the hip pouch is roomy and the chest allows two fingers.
- 7Feel the back of the neck after 20 minutes: warm and dry, not sweaty.
Common mistakes
- Oversized sack that slips over the face
- Extra blanket added on top
- Weighted products
How do I know I am doing this correctly?
- No slipping when the baby wriggles
- Neck warm and dry
- Hips free
Interactive safety check
0 of 7 confirmed. Do not leave the baby until every item is checked.
When to stop and seek help
- · Rolling attempts
- · Sweating, flushed skin or rapid breathing
This app provides education and decision support. It cannot rule out a medical emergency.
Finish this tutorial
How confident do you feel doing this on your own?
Clinical review
- Author
- Partnered Postpartum clinical content team
- Reviewer
- R. Okafor, MSN, RN · Registered Nurse
- Reviewed
- 2026-05-14
- Next review
- 2027-05-14
- Version
- 1.2
- Applies to
- United States and Canada
Evidence sources
- · American Academy of Pediatrics, Caring for Your Baby and Young Child
- · AWHONN postpartum and newborn care standards
- · NHS newborn care guidance
Version history
- · 1.0 initial publication
- · 1.1 cord-care wording aligned to AAP
- · 1.2 added safety-check steps
This app provides education and decision support. It cannot rule out a medical emergency.
This app provides education and decision support. It cannot rule out a medical emergency.