Swaddling is part of many cozy, cuddly moments in the newborn stage, when your baby is adjusting to the world and snoozing throughout the day. But as your little one grows, knowing when to stop swaddling becomes an important step in keeping them safe during sleep.
It’s one of the first signs your baby is moving beyond the newborn stage – and while it can feel like a big transition, it’s also a key safety milestone.
As with so many big changes, you probably have some big questions. We’re here to help. Whether you’re wondering, “How long can you swaddle a baby?,” “What age do you stop swaddling an infant?” or “How can I help my baby sleep without a swaddle” – we've got answers.
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Introduction to Swaddling and its Benefits for Newborns
Swaddling is when you gently wrap your newborn baby in a thin, breathable blanket or cloth so that their arms and body are snugly contained while leaving room for the hips and legs to move. It mimics the cozy and warm feelings of the womb, which can help calm newborns, reduce the Moro reflex (startle reflex), and promote longer, more restful sleep in the early weeks of life.
It takes months before your baby has full control of their limbs – that’s one of the many developmental milestones you’ll celebrate. Newborns are particularly unique because they have the Moro Reflex, which leads to unvoluntary movements of their arms and legs that can disrupt their sleep – which they need a lot of. Plus, newborn active sleep can come with a lot of movements! Swaddling holds your baby’s limbs in place, helping to prevent them from waking themselves up.
While swaddling can help newborns feel safe and sleep more soundly, it’s not meant to last forever. Once your baby shows signs of rolling – often around 2 months, but sometimes earlier – it’s time to stop swaddling for safety reasons. If they haven't shown signs of rolling, you should start to think about a transition off swaddling when your baby reaches the end of the 4th trimester.
When to Stop Swaddling
You should stop swaddling your baby as early as 2 months, depending on if they are showing signs of rolling over from back to front. Some babies may show these signs even earlier – some closer to 4 months or later.
Any signs of rolling are signs to stop swaddling. A major sign of rolling is being able to move their body onto either shoulder or their side. Other signs include using their legs to lift their hips, moving their hips, and kicking and moving themselves in a circle when laying down.
Breaking out of the swaddle is a common sign it may be time to stop – it often means your baby is getting stronger or simply no longer finds the swaddle comfortable. If the swaddle comes loose during sleep, it can also become a safety hazard.
Some parents choose to gradually transition by swaddling with arms out – but remember, the moment your baby shows any signs of rolling, it’s time to stop swaddling completely, including arms. Around 2–4 months, many babies also discover their hands – having arms free lets them self-soothe by sucking on their fingers, which is an important step toward independent sleep.
You should also stop swaddling if your baby seems to be overheating. Signs include:
- Flushed cheeks
- Damp hairline or sweating
- Rapid breathing
If you notice these, unswaddle your baby right away and gently cool them with a soft, damp cloth if needed.
If your baby hasn't started rolling yet but you're sensing it could happen soon, you can start easing out of the swaddle by letting them sleep with one or both arms out.
Struggling with your baby’s sleep or creating a routine? Take our free sleep assessment to get a personalized plan tailored to your baby’s age, needs, and sleep patterns – so you both get the rest you need.
Risks of Continued Swaddling
Risks of continued swaddling once your baby is rolling over include your baby becoming stuck on their stomach, which is very dangerous. If a swaddled baby rolls onto their stomach, they may not be able to roll back or reposition themselves, which increases the risk of suffocation or injury. That's why experts recommend stopping swaddling as soon as you see signs of rolling, even during playtime.
Babies under 1 should always be put to sleep on their back and should stay sleeping on their back until they can independently roll. If they roll when swaddled, they may not be able to roll back.
Even if your baby is not rolling and you continue to swaddle, make sure to leave enough “wiggle room” so that they can move their hips. Swaddling too tightly around your little one’s hips can lead to problems later. (Here's how to swaddle safely.)
While swaddling is typically safe for newborns when done correctly, there are studies that show that it can be dangerous if your baby sleeps too deeply, especially if they are sleeping on their tummy or side which is not recommended. This can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). If you are concerned about swaddling or your baby’s sleep, always consult with your healthcare provider.
How Do I Transition Out of Swaddling?
Whether your baby is already showing signs of rolling, getting close, or you’re simply ready to move on, it’s time to start transitioning from swaddling to a safer sleep option. The most common next step? A sleep sack – a wearable blanket that keeps your baby cozy while giving them the freedom to move.
Sleep sacks come in armless or sleeved styles and are designed to be snug yet loose enough to allow safe rolling. They're a great in-between step from the snug swaddle to more independent sleep.
If your baby hasn’t shown signs of rolling you can gradually transition them but allowing them to sleep with one or both arms out of the swaddle.
Alternative sleepwear to swaddles:
- Here are some safe, cozy alternatives once you’ve stopped swaddling:
- Sleep sacks (wearable blankets)
- Footed sleepers
- Onesies with a wearable blanket
- Baby gowns (only if your baby isn’t yet rolling)
Health authorities like he American Academy of Pediatrics advised that it’s unsafe for babies to sleep in weighted blankets or hats.
The general rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you’re wearing. For example, if you’re wearing a t-shirt, your baby might wear a onesie, plus a sleep sack.
For more specific guidance, see our article on how to dress your baby for sleep.
Gradual swaddle transition methods
Here are our tips to make the swaddle transition easier – for everyone.
- Create a Sleep-Nourishing Environment: Download the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ app to get step-by-step guidance on setting your baby’s room up for success. Also don’t forget to choose high-quality newborn diapers, so they don’t wake up unnecessarily from leaks or wetness.
- Implement a Bedtime Routine: Calming, consistent bedtime routines are the bedrock of healthy sleep – the calming nature relaxes your baby ahead of bed, while consistency creates a pattern that creates a healthy habit.
- Start with One Arm Out: If your baby isn’t starting to show signs of rolling yet, but you want to prepare, try swaddling them with one arm out. Then, once they are used to that try two arms out. Remember: the answer to when to stop swaddling arms is the same as when to stop swaddling.
- Watch for Sleepy Cues: While newborns are too young to be on a set sleep schedule, if they are showing signs of sleepiness, such as rubbing eyes or fussiness, put them down for a nap – it’ll be harder to fall asleep if they are overtired.
- Give it Time: It may take a few nights to get used to sleeping when you stop swaddling. You can try a pacifier or gentle rocking or shushing to help. Babies under 3 months can also benefit from contact naps – here are some tips for what to do if your baby will only sleep while being held.
- Know That Sleep Training Comes Later: Newborn sleep training is not possible. Most babies aren’t ready until around 4 months, once their circadian rhythms have developed. But you can build healthy sleep habits now — and that makes sleep coaching easier when the time is right.
Final Thoughts
Swaddling can be a helpful tool in those early weeks, offering comfort and security as your baby adjusts to the world. But as your little one grows, it becomes safer – and developmentally appropriate – for them to sleep without it.
Knowing when to stop swaddling should be on your radar during the first few weeks and months. Signs it’s time include your baby starting to roll, breaking out of the swaddle, or simply seeming uncomfortable in it. While many babies begin rolling around 2 months, some do so even earlier — so always keep a close eye on their development.
If you’re ever unsure about when or how to stop swaddling, don’t hesitate to check in with your pediatrician or healthcare provider. They can offer personalized guidance based on your baby’s unique needs.
