When to Stop Swaddling: How to Spot the Signs and Support Your Baby’s Next Big Milestone
- Rachael Carreon PT, DPT
- Jan 27
- 5 min read
Swaddling can be a lifesaver for many parents during those early weeks—your baby is snug, secure, and (hopefully) sleeping soundly. This can be one of the most challenging transitions for both parents and babies - I know it was for our family! Why would you want to disrupt your baby's sleep?!
But as your little one grows, their needs change. Swaddling is great for newborns, but when motor skills like rolling start to emerge, it’s time to let go of the swaddle and embrace the next stage of development.
If you’re wondering when to make the switch or how to spot the signs your baby is ready to roll, let’s break it down together!
Why Swaddling Is So Helpful for Newborns
Swaddling is like a magic trick for soothing newborns, especially in those first few months when the world feels big and overwhelming. Here’s why it can be such a game-changer for your newborn:
Mimics the Womb: The snug wrap of a swaddle helps recreate the cozy, secure environment your baby enjoyed in the womb. This can be especially comforting during the “fourth trimester,” when your little one is adjusting to the big, wide world.
Soothes the Startle Reflex: Newborns have a natural startle reflex (called the Moro reflex), which can cause their arms to flail and wake them from sleep. Swaddling gently contains these movements, helping babies stay calm and rest longer.
Promotes Better Sleep: Let’s face it—when your baby sleeps better, you sleep better. By reducing sudden movements and providing a sense of security, swaddling can help your baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, making those early days a little more manageable.
Supports Self-Regulation: For many newborns, being swaddled helps them settle when they’re overstimulated. The gentle pressure can have a calming effect, making it easier for your baby to relax and feel safe.
But as helpful as swaddling is, it’s not meant to last forever. Once your baby starts showing signs of rolling, it’s time to move on for their safety and development.
When to Stop Swaddling
Knowing when to stop swaddling is crucial for your baby’s safety. The general rule is to wean from the swaddle when your baby shows early signs of rolling.
Why the urgency? If a baby rolls onto their tummy while swaddled, they may not have the ability to push up or roll back, which can increase the risk of suffocation, or SIDS.
Signs Your Baby Is Getting Ready to Roll
Rolling is a big milestone, and your baby will give you plenty of clues that they’re getting close.
Look for these early signs:
1. Reaching Across the Body:
When lying on their back, your baby may start reaching one arm across their chest. This movement helps them practice the weight shifts they’ll need for rolling.
2. Rolling Onto Their Side:
You might notice your baby shifting their weight to one side and hanging out there for a bit. This side-lying position is a precursor to full rolling.
3. Grabbing Their Feet:
Babies love discovering their feet! When they bring their feet to their hands, they’re strengthening their core muscles and improving coordination, both essential for rolling.
Encouraging Rolling Skills
Helping your baby develop rolling skills is about creating opportunities for movement and exploration. Here’s how you can support them:
• Tummy Time:
This strengthens the neck, shoulders, and core—key muscles for rolling. Try short, frequent tummy time sessions throughout the day. You can also checkout my free guide for stress free tummy time!
• Toy Placement:
Place toys just out of reach while your baby is on their back or tummy. Reaching for them encourages the weight shifts needed for rolling.
• Help Them Find Their Feet:
Place a pillow or towel under baby's hips to lift them up and bring their feet more into their field of vision! Adding fun rattles or socks can help motivate them to grab those tootsies.
• Side-Lying Play:
Lay your baby on their side with support, giving them a chance to practice rolling to their back or tummy.
• Minimize Baby Gear:
Too much time in swings, bouncers, or other baby gear can limit your baby’s movement. Maximize floor time so they can explore and build strength.
Tips for Transitioning Out of the Swaddle
The transition from swaddling doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how to make it smoother for you and your baby:
• Start Gradually:
Begin by leaving one arm out of the swaddle during sleep. After a few nights, try leaving both arms free.
TIP: If your baby had/has a head turn preference, start by taking out the arm on their non-preferred side! They will likely self soothe using their hand and turn their head towards that side!
• Switch to a Sleep Sack:
A wearable blanket is a great alternative to swaddling. It keeps your baby warm and cozy while allowing their arms and legs to move freely. It can also be a great tool to signal to baby that it's time to settle and go to sleep. I also love using a transitional swaddle which keeps the baby's arms out but swaddles their torso, providing coziness and security while still allowing arm mobility.
• Try To Avoid Other Sleep Aids:
You might be tempted to use a transitional sleep sack like a magic merlin or a weighted sleep sack. While these are marketed to help your baby sleep and make this transition easier, they still limit your baby's ability to move freely and can delay rolling.
• Be Patient:
Some babies will transition quickly, while others may take a week or two to adjust. It’s okay—give it time!
When to Seek Support
Every baby develops at their own pace, and that’s completely okay. However, it may be time to consider reaching out to a pediatric physical therapist if:
✔️ Your baby isn’t showing interest in rolling by 6 months.
✔️ Rolling is uneven, or your baby seems to favor one side significantly.
✔️ Your baby struggles with head control or keeping their arms underneath them during tummy time.
When rolling isn’t progressing as expected, early intervention can help address any underlying challenges, such as body tension, muscle imbalances, or coordination issues. Working with a pediatric physical therapist gives your baby the tools they need to succeed while building your confidence as a parent.
Be Patient
Transitioning out of the swaddle and helping your baby learn to roll are exciting milestones—but they can also feel a bit overwhelming. Remember, every baby’s journey is unique, and progress doesn’t happen overnight. The most important thing is that you’re creating opportunities for movement, so that they can continue to learn and grow.
And if you feel like you need extra support, I’m here to help! Whether it’s answering questions, sharing guidance, or working with you one-on-one, we’ll ensure your baby feels safe, supported, and ready to roll into their next milestone with confidence.
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