The Importance of Baby Blankets
Infants spend most of their day (and hopefully night) sleeping. During their sleep they grow, both physically and mentally, into the toddlers, children, youth, and adults of tomorrow. For this reason a healthy number of baby blankets is one of the most important areas a parent to be sure of, and might want to ensure their friends have enough by giving a newborn gift. The following are four reasons to take them seriously.
1. Infants have incredibly undeveloped nervous systems. It is most apparent when they flail their arms and end up hitting themselves in the face. They do not have control over the electrical impulses sent to their arms and legs. For this reason they often jolt themselves awake, scared and crying. The American Association of Pediatrics found that infants swaddled in an appropriate baby blanket awaken less due to reflex motion than unswaddled infants. The risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is also reduced when swaddling the baby. Furthermore, infants stay in REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep longer when swaddled. So, a properly wrapped blanket keeps babies from sleeping longer, deeper, and from waking themselves accidentally.
2. Infants are used to confined spaces. The womb is a very warm, snug place. Research shows that when babies are swaddled they immediately associate their situation back to the womb. This promotes familiarity and comfort in any environment. In spite of recommendations supporting swaddling, many new parents forego wrapping their infant because the infant often struggles out of the swaddle. Despite what parents may think, infants like to be swaddled! Just a little persistence is needed to condition the baby… They will soon begin to associate swaddling with sleep, and co-operate much more than an unswaddled baby.
3. Babies are fragile and much more susceptible to allergens and dirt than adults. Parents should not have a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to baby blankets. Infants should have separate sets of blankets—One set for in the crib, one set for going out in the car and stroller, and possibly one for around the house (on the floor/play mat). The ‘outside’ set of blankets will naturally pick up different smells, dust, and pollen and should be washed much more frequently than the rest. This reduces the risk of the fragile infant catching colds or viruses due to their undeveloped lungs. Hypoallergenic blankets are definitely something at which to look closely.
4. Baby blanket quality is very important in both your own and in newborn gifts. The type of fabric chosen for the ‘outside’ baby blankets makes a huge difference with the extra washing. Plain cotton is probably the most durable and long lasting, but other types may be used as well. Jersey knit (t-shirt material) is great for night-time swaddling because it stretches a bit and helps the infant stay snug as a bug. Satin framed baby blankets may be better suited for naps or play because some babies love the slick feeling of the satin. Velour lined blankets are soft and cuddly, extra warm for that precious newborn or for the colder winter months.
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