As a Pretoria newborn photographer, I’m constantly asked one question by brand-new parents: “Can you please show me how to swaddle properly?” Swaddling feels like this magical newborn superpower — one moment baby is crying and kicking, and the next they’re warm, wrapped, and suddenly calmer. But when you’re tired and unsure what goes where, it can feel stressful. So today, I’m breaking it all down in the easiest way possible, step-by-step, just like I show parents in the studio.

Learning how to swaddle doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you get the hang of it, it becomes a simple little routine that helps your baby feel secure — especially in those early days when everything in the world is still brand new.

Why Swaddling Helps Newborns Settle

In the first weeks of life, your baby still thinks they’re in the womb. Swaddling recreates that warm, snug feeling by holding their arms close and reducing the startle reflex that wakes them up constantly. Many Pretoria moms tell me their babies sleep noticeably longer once they understand how to swaddle a newborn for sleep safely.

Swaddling also:

• Helps calm fussy babies

• Keeps them from scratching their faces

• Gives them a sense of security during feeds

• Helps with transitioning to longer stretches of sleep

When you do it correctly — not too tight, not too loose — swaddling can make those early newborn days feel a little more manageable for everyone.

What You Need Before You Start

Before we get into the steps, make sure you have:

• A breathable muslin or cotton swaddle

• A safe sleep space

• Baby lying on their back

• Enough space to fold and tuck comfortably

As someone who swaddles babies daily for newborn photoshoots, I can tell you that the fabric matters. Choose something light, stretchy and soft. Heavy blankets trap heat and make swaddling harder.

Step-by-Step: How to Swaddle a Newborn

Here is the easiest method to follow — simple enough that even a sleep-deprived parent can manage it at 2AM.

Step 1: Lay the Blanket Down in a Diamond Shape

Place one corner at the top and fold it down slightly. This creates a little “pillow edge” for baby’s shoulders.

Step 2: Lay Baby Down with Shoulders at the Fold

Baby’s head should always stay above the blanket — never inside it.

Step 3: Bring One Side Across the Chest

Gently hold baby’s arm down and bring the left side of the blanket across their body. Tuck it snugly under their back. It should be firm but not tight.

Step 4: Fold Up the Bottom

Bring the bottom corner up over baby’s feet. Keep it loose around the hips — this is important for healthy hip development.

Step 5: Bring the Other Side Across

Now bring the right side over the body and tuck underneath, just like a little burrito. Baby should look snug, secure, and comfy.

You’ve just learned how to swaddle a newborn in the simplest and safest way.

Is Swaddling Safe? Important Tips for Peace of Mind

Swaddling is safe when you follow a few simple guidelines:

• Always place baby on their back

• Stop swaddling when baby starts rolling

• Keep hips loose

• Ensure the blanket is breathable

• Never cover baby’s face

• Don’t overheat the room

If baby gets frustrated, prefers their arms up, or fights the swaddle, you can adjust. Some babies want one arm out. Some want both. Every baby is different — and that’s perfectly normal.

When to Stop Swaddling

Most babies love swaddling in the beginning, but as soon as your little one shows signs of rolling (usually around 8–12 weeks), it’s time to stop for safety reasons.

Many Pretoria parents switch to sleep sacks at that stage, which give baby freedom to move without the blanket coming loose.

A Pretoria Photographer’s Tip for Calm Newborn Photos

Here’s a little behind-the-scenes secret: in my studio, almost every peaceful newborn photo you see begins with a beautiful swaddle. When baby feels snug and supported, they relax more easily, breathe deeply, and even drift off to sleep quicker.

If you’re planning a newborn photoshoot, knowing how to swaddle makes the experience smoother — and helps you enjoy those soft, sleepy cuddles even more.

For more newborn tips, you may also enjoy this post: [insert internal link to any newborn-related blog].

Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Better Than You Think

Swaddling isn’t just a technique — it’s a way to comfort your baby and feel more confident in those tiny early days. Every parent learns as they go, and every baby teaches you what they love.

If you practice how to swaddle a few times, you’ll quickly become a pro. And remember, you’re not meant to do this alone. As a Pretoria newborn photographer, I’m always here to guide, encourage, and support you through these first precious weeks.

You’ve got this — and your baby is lucky to have you. And if you want to see how we do it 😉 book your newborn photoshoot now

For all  your new Mamas out there, here is some easy reading:

A Letter to Every First-Time Mom in Pretoria

The 8 Things Moms Wish They Did More Of During Baby’s First Year

Newborn Photoshoot Pretoria | Baby Manatsa Imani Rwodzi Studio Session