Three Pointers for Baby Blankets

When a baby is sleeping it needs to be comforted, often through the accompaniment of a very soft blanket. Considering new babies sleep for almost half the day, it is very important to get the very best in baby blankets for your child. Check out these tips when purchasing one for your newborn, or as a gift for expecting parents.

1. Inspect closely the materials that the blanket is made of.

Cotton is typically one of the best options. It “breathes” so air can get through and keeps your child from overheating. If your child gets too hot, he or she can be at risk for SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, during sleep. Cotton is a natural fiber but is often treated with certain chemicals during manufacturing. As an answer to this, organic cotton is growing in popularity for baby blankets. It is free of pesticides and is a great option for allergy-prone babies.

You might also check out faux fur. This material is extremely soft and can be washed at very hot temperatures since it is made from polyester and nylon. While satin is beautiful and feels good, it is also delicate and not ideal for enduring lots of washings, which is inevitable with little ones. Finally, check that the baby blanket is well made and does not have any loose strings and places where a baby could get wrapped around and choked.

2. Buy baby blankets in pairs.

Children often get very attached to their baby blankets. This can be due to their association with sleep and comfort, the colors on them that soothe the child, or even the smell of the blankets. If you don’t want an upset child, having a backup if the blanket gets lost or damaged, or just needs to be washed, is a smart idea. You can often find packages of baby blankets that come in twos, or simply buy a spare when you’re at the store.

3. Personalize the baby blankets.

Having a baby’s name or a special message embroidered on the blanket can add a nice personal touch. It also makes a great gift at baby showers. A lot of families pass down baby blankets through the generations. A personalized baby blanket can be a memento of the original owner, and subsequent owners, if names are continually added over the years. These blankets may be a little more expensive, but they’re worth the cost in memories and sentiment they bring.

One final thought: keep in mind that younger babies like to be swaddled, so a swaddling blanket is very appropriate for newborns. When swaddled in a blanket, the baby is wrapped tightly with his or her hands and feet snugly tucked inside. This mimics the sensation of being in the mother’s womb and provides a sense of calmness and security to the infant, so both parents and baby can sleep soundly!