If Your Newborn Doesn’t Like Swaddle Time, Here’s What to Do

If your newborn doesn’t seem to like the swaddle, it can feel confusing—especially when you’ve heard how much swaddling helps babies sleep. Some babies fight the wrap, others wriggle free, and many fuss going in only to sleep better once they’re snug. The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can turn swaddle struggles into calmer, longer stretches of rest.

Why Some Newborns Resist the Swaddle

Swaddling is meant to mimic the snug comfort of the womb. Babies spend nine months in a warm, enclosed space, and being wrapped recreates that security. It also helps manage the startle reflex (Moro reflex), when a baby’s arms suddenly fling outward as if they’re falling. That reflex often wakes them up, and swaddling keeps them calm and asleep.

But even though swaddling is calming once a baby is fully wrapped, many newborns resist it at first. You might notice fussing or crying during the wrapping process, only for them to settle and sleep more soundly once inside. Other reasons for resistance include:

    •    Temperature discomfort – If your baby is too warm, swaddling feels irritating instead of soothing.

    •    Too tight or too loose – An uncomfortable wrap can cause frustration.

    •    Preference for arms up – Some babies want their hands near the face to self-soothe.

When Babies Start Breaking Out

Even if swaddling works beautifully at first, there comes a stage when babies begin breaking out of the swaddle. This usually happens as they grow stronger or start showing signs of rolling. It’s completely normal—and a signal that it may be time to transition.

Signs your baby is ready:

    •    They consistently wiggle an arm or leg free.

    •    The swaddle no longer stays secure, even when done correctly.

    •    They’re beginning to roll, which makes swaddling unsafe.

Gentle Alternatives and Adjustments

If your newborn doesn’t like swaddle time—or if they’ve reached the breakout stage—you don’t have to give up on comfort. There are simple, gentle alternatives:

    •    Arms-out swaddles – Allow your baby to keep their hands up near their face while still feeling snug.

    •    Breathable fabrics – Lightweight muslin or cotton helps prevent overheating.

    •    Sleep sacks – A safe option once swaddling no longer works, offering cozy enclosure without wrapping arms.

• Sleep Suit - A sleep suit keeps a baby’s arms stiff enough to reduce the startle reflex, while still giving them access to their hands for soothing.

Helping Baby Feel Secure Without Stress

Swaddling is just one tool for better rest. If your newborn doesn’t like the swaddle, you can still create a sleep environment that feels womb-like and secure:

    •    Keep the room dark and cool (68–72°F).

    •    Use white noise to recreate the constant sounds of the womb.

    •    Build a simple, predictable bedtime routine so your baby learns the cues for sleep.

The Takeaway

If your newborn seems to resist the swaddle, it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Many babies fuss while being wrapped but sleep more peacefully once snug because the swaddle calms the startle reflex and recreates the womb. Eventually, as they grow, they’ll outgrow the need for swaddling and be ready for sleep sacks or other gentle sleep solutions.