Knowing when to stop swaddling your baby

Swaddling can feel like a magic trick in the early days of parenthood. You wrap your newborn up like a cosy little burrito, and suddenly, they’re calmer, sleep longer, and startle themselves awake far less often. It’s no surprise that swaddling has been a go-to sleep solution for generations.

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But while swaddling works wonders in those first weeks, it’s not meant to last forever. As babies grow, their needs change, and there comes a time when those snug wraps become more of a safety risk than a comfort. Knowing when to stop swaddling is an important step in helping your baby transition to independent sleep safely.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about stopping swaddling – the right age to make the change, signs your baby is ready, why it’s essential, and how to transition smoothly without causing too many sleep disruptions.

At what age should you stop swaddling?

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Swaddling is a great tool for newborn sleep, but there comes a point when it’s no longer safe. The general guideline is to stop swaddling once your baby starts showing signs of rolling over. This is because a swaddled baby who rolls onto their stomach may struggle to lift their head or reposition themselves, increasing the risk of suffocation.

For most babies, this milestone happens between 2 to 6 months, but every baby develops at their own pace. Some little ones start rolling as early as 8 weeks, while others may take a bit longer. If your baby is on the earlier side of development, you might need to stop swaddling sooner than expected.

Even if your baby isn’t rolling yet, it’s a good idea to start preparing for the transition by 3 to 4 months. At this stage, babies begin to move more in their sleep, and having baby’s arms free helps them practice self-soothing.

If you’re unsure whether your baby is ready, watch for early rolling attempts, like rocking side to side or lifting baby’s legs. When in doubt, check with your paediatrician for guidance.

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Signs that it’s time to stop swaddling

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Every baby is different, but there are a few clear signs that indicate it’s time to ditch the swaddle. Since rolling over is the biggest safety concern, it’s important to watch for early movements that suggest your baby is ready for more freedom while sleeping.

Attempting to roll over is the clearest sign. If your baby is starting to rock side to side, push off with their legs, or actually roll onto their tummy, swaddling should stop immediately.

Breaking out of the swaddle is another strong indicator. If your baby’s arms are regularly worked free or fabric loosens, they may be ready for more movement at night.

Increased restlessness can also mean they’re ready for change. Some babies start fussing or waking more often because they feel restricted by a tight wrapping. If your once-peaceful sleeper suddenly seems frustrated, it could be a sign that they need more freedom.

A fading startle reflex can also signal that it’s time to stop. The Moro reflex, or startle reflex, is one reason swaddling helps newborns sleep, but it starts to disappear around three to four months. If your baby is no longer startling awake as much, they may not need the swaddle anymore.

If you’re noticing one or more of these signs, it’s time to start the transition. If you’re unsure, checking with your early childhood clinic or doctor can provide reassurance that the timing is right.

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Why should you stop swaddling?

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Swaddling is a great comfort for newborns, but continuing it for too long can pose risks. Once babies become more mobile, swaddling can interfere with their natural development and even become dangerous.

The biggest concern is safety. A swaddled baby who rolls onto their stomach may struggle to move their head into a safe position off the sleep surface, increasing the risk of suffocation. This is why experts, including the Red Nose Foundation, recommend stopping swaddling as soon as rolling becomes a possibility.

Swaddling can also limit motor skill development. As babies grow, they need opportunities to move their arms and legs freely to build strength and coordination. Keeping them wrapped up for too long may delay their ability to practice these important movements.

Overheating is another risk. Swaddled babies are more likely to get too warm, especially in warmer climates or if they’re dressed too heavily underneath. Overheating has been linked to an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), so it’s important to monitor your baby’s temperature.

Sleep quality can also be affected. While swaddling helps newborns settle, older babies often sleep better when they can find their own comfortable sleep position. If a baby starts fighting the swaddle or waking up frequently, it may be because they’re ready for more movement.

Making the transition at the right time helps ensure your baby’s sleep remains safe and allows them to develop important motor skills without restriction.

How to transition out of swaddling

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Going from a snug, cosy swaddle or baby sleeping bag to sleeping with free arms and legs can be a big adjustment for some babies. A gradual transition can help make the process smoother while minimising sleep disruptions. Here are a few methods to ease your baby out of swaddling.

One arm out method

This is one of the gentlest ways to start. Begin by swaddling your baby with one arm free while keeping the other tucked in. This allows them to get used to more movement while still feeling some security.

Both arms out method

For babies who seem ready for full freedom, this method works well. Start swaddling with both arms out while keeping the wrap snug around baby’s chest for comfort. Some babies adjust quickly with this approach, while others may need more time. Just make sure you have baby safely wrapped.

Legs out method

If your baby seems to want more movement but still enjoys the security of a swaddle, try keeping their legs free while keeping their arms wrapped. This helps them adjust gradually before transitioning to full arms-out sleep.

Using transition sleepwear

Sleep sacks or swaddle-transition suits provide a middle ground between swaddling and sleeping completely free. Sleep sacks offer a similar snug feel without restricting movement. These can be especially helpful for babies who struggle with the transition.

Alternating between swaddling and arms-free sleep

Some babies need a slower approach. Try swaddling for naps but leaving arms out at night, or vice versa, until your baby fully adjusts.

Some babies adapt quickly, while others take a little longer. The key is to move at your baby’s pace and offer plenty of comfort as they adjust to their new way of sleeping.

How to help your baby sleep without a swaddle

Once your baby is no longer swaddled, they may take some time to adjust. Without the snug feeling of the swaddle blanket they’re used to, they might wake more frequently or struggle to settle. Here are some ways to help them sleep well while you stop swaddling your baby.

Create a consistent bedtime routine

A predictable routine helps babies feel secure. Try a calming sequence before bed, such as a warm bath, gentle massage, feeding, and quiet time. This signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep, even without the swaddle.

Offer a sleep-friendly environment

Make sure the room is cool, dark, and quiet. White noise machines can help mask sudden sounds that might startle your baby. Using a sleep sack can also provide a cosy, secure feeling without restricting movement.

Encourage self-soothing

Without the swaddle, babies may flail their arms or wake themselves up. Helping them learn to self-soothe- through gentle patting and shushing, can make the transition easier.

Try different sleep positions

Once your baby has the freedom to move, they may prefer a new sleep position. Some babies settle better on their side or with their hands near their face. Let them find what feels comfortable while ensuring they’re always placed on their back to sleep.

Be patient and consistent

Like any big change, this transition takes time. Some babies adjust in a few nights, while others need a couple of weeks. Staying consistent with your approach will help them settle into their new sleep routine.

Wrapping-Up (pun intended!)

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Stopping swaddling at the right time is important for both safety and development. Watching for signs for when to stop swaddling and transitioning gradually can help make the process smoother. Every baby adapts at their own pace, so patience and consistency are key.

Sources

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American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), n.d. Healthy children: Safe sleep articles.

Huckleberry, 2023. Transitioning from the swaddle.

Red Nose, 2023. Is it safe to wrap/swaddle my baby?

Red Nose Australia, 2025. Safe Sleep Guidelines

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, 2025. Swaddling Your Baby

Raising Children Network, 2025. Safe Sleep Environments