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Frequently Asked Questions

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Swaddling: an age-old practice of wrapping infants snuggly in swaddling cloths, blankets or similar cloth so that movement ofthe limbs is restricted or minimalized

tr.v. swad·dled, swad·dling, swad·dles

1. To wrap or bind in bandages; swathe.
2. To wrap (a baby) in swaddling clothes.
3. To restrain or restrict.
n.
A band or cloth used for swaddling.

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Why Swaddle with the Woombie?

The problem with other baby Swaddling methods is that blankets often unravel and loosen as baby moves throughout the night, causing baby to wake up feeling uncomfortable.

Also, over tight swaddling can inhibit motor development, and even cut off circulation to arms and hands, and restrict breathing if applied improperly.  The Woombie does not restrict movement yet effectively swaddles!

"Cocoon Swaddling" with the WOOMbie swaddler is truly different from other swaddling methods and garments.

Our fabric is made of a unique 4-way stretch fabric and ergonomical shape which gently swaddles, snuggles and compresses the baby to mimic the womb, quickly re-conforming after baby finishes stretching.

The Woombie offers 4 types of fabric stretch, one is bound to suit your baby's needs, from the passive baby to the Houdini Baby who escapes from every swaddle on the market.


How long does a baby need swaddling?

All babies vary in their swaddling needs, ranging from 3 to 9 months. However, the majority of babies a swaddled until approximately 6 months.

What if my baby cries while being swaddled?

Crying during or shortly after swaddling is not a sign that your baby does not like to be swaddled.  Did you ever notice how "busy" your baby's arms and legs can be at times?  Swaddling actually helps them to feel more relaxed, secure and in control of their rigorous involuntary movements.  It is BEST to start the Woombie when the baby is first born! This eliminates swaddling confusion.


How can my baby get used to the Woombie when he has been using a tight wrap from birth?

Babies sleep on an average of 10-12 hours daily once past the young infant stage. Tight swaddling for almost HALF of the day during sleep is not good for baby's motor development, circulation, and can even cause developmental hip dysplasia. Imagine all of the natural movement they are missing!   To get baby used to the Woombie vs. tight swaddlers, you can either start using the Woombie first at naptime, or you may place baby in a bodysuit and then into his/her Woombie. FOLLOW that by tight swaddling the baby OVER the woombie, and once baby feels comfy and falls asleep, you may release the top swaddle wrap and leave baby in woombie alone.  Remember you do not want to over-heat the baby, so do not leave them in both wraps for the night!  A light blanket may be placed over the woombie from the chest down to the toes if you feel a chill in the air.


Why is the Woombie different from regular blankets?


The Woombie allows baby some movement while still effectively swaddling baby.  This allows for good blood flow and improved Motor Development.  Why tight swaddle your baby if he/she doesn't need it?  Basically, the goals of swaddling are decreased arm movements which startle baby and increased security.  The Woombie offers both.


Are there any dangers involved in swaddling?

Yes. parents who are not informed on how to swaddle can put their babies at risk.  Clinical studies have proven that tight blanket swaddling can lead to decreased and labored respirations, hip dysplasia, poor circulation, and stunted motor development.  All of these factors were kept in mind when designing the Woombie.  The stretch fabric prevents all of the above dangers.  Also there is research that shows that over-wrapping with blankets can lead to overheating, which is a risk factor in S.I.D.S  Loose unraveled blankets are also a potential cause of suffocation.


What if my baby rolls on his belly?


Rolling is a sign that it is time to stop swaddling.  It is important to always position baby per Peadiatrician guidelines using recommended sleep positioners, but there does come a time when baby is just strong enough to roll over on his own.  Rolling babies should not be traditionally swaddled because of limited upper body mobility when they are belly down.  The Woombie does allow for more freedom of upper body, unlike traditional swaddling where arms are "pinned to the sides, increasing mobility in the torso area.  If your baby does begin to roll, ask your Peadiatrician for advice on whether or not swaddling with the Woombie should be continued.


How can I wean my baby from swaddling?

Weaning may be difficult for many parents and babies, at least for a few nights. To wean, you may try first to stop swaddling at nap time.  This will introduce more freedom at a more "controlled" time of day.  Night time is more difficult, as everyone is tired and expecting a quiet night.  You may have your baby wear a "wearable blanket", to provide warmth and prevent blankets from covering babys face.  You can also leave your baby in their Woombie and unzip it a few cm daily to gradually allow baby to understand upper body mobility and freedom.  Then you may allow baby to sleep with arms out, keeping lower body zipped from breast level downward, and finally graduating from the Woombie to an arms free wearable blanket!

I have been using a different swaddler, but it seems too tight for the baby.  It even caused his hands to turn blue.  Can I switch to the Woombie, since he is already used to a tight swaddle?

Yes! You can switch at any time, but please remember that babies get used to certain patterns and comforts.  Remember, it is best to start using the Woombie from birth, however, in certain circumstances you may need to switch at a later time.  Switching from a tight swaddle to our concept may take baby time to adjust, but give it time.  Babies who have been used to being tight swaddled for many months and then switch over to a new type of swaddler will be confused at first by the change, possibly even upset.  Try the Woombie during Nap time first to introduce it!  The benefits are wonderful!



Can I use the Woombie when breastfeeding?

Yes, the Woombie helps "busy hands" stay contained during breastfeeding, even making the Football Hold easier for new mums!  We have lactation nurses, Doulas and Physician mums who use and love the Woombie!


Is the fabric breathable?
What should my baby wear under the Woombie?


Yes, the Woombie is made of 95% Cotton, which is "very lightweight", like a soft Jersey tshirt.  A basic bodysuit is recommended to use under the Woombie for sleep. On hot nights just a nappy or nappy and singlet is suitable. On cold nights, fleece like PJs and socks can be worn under the Woombie and the Woombie will act as the blanket.
NB. All Babies feel differently and Homes have different temperatures, so please use common sense when dressing your baby.  You will be able to tell if your baby needs warmer or lighter clothing, there is no right or wrong type of garment to use, your baby just needs to be comfortably dressed.


Can I get the larger size Woombie for my newborn and let her grow into it?

No. The Big Baby is not meant for newborns.  If you put a newborn into a Big Baby Woombie, it will be much too loose for the baby, and swaddling will not be effective.


Can a baby roll over in the Woombie?

Babies over 2 months can unexpectedly roll over.  With any and all swaddlers, it is always good to position your baby safely on his/her back using preventative measures to prevent rolling.  Consult with your Pediatrician for advice on which sleep postitioners are recommended.  Unlike traditional blanket swaddles that "pin" arms at the side, the Woombie is made with a stretch fabric and full inner garment arm freedom.  If baby does accidently roll onto his/her belly, the Woombie will allow baby full arm and upper body mobility.

It looks so small! How will my baby fit into it?

The Woombies are made smaller than the average size of the baby because of its stretch fabric.  It mimics the womb, snuggling and compressing baby gently.  Once you apply the Woombie, baby will have plenty of stretch room to position themselves comfortably.


Can I use the Woombie in a Car Seat?
The Woombie is not Car Safety Approved.  Due to baby's arms needing to be through the seat belts -  taking away the need and effectiveness of swaddling.
We do not recommend the use of the Woombie in a car seat for your baby's safety.

How Many Woombies Do I Need?
We suggest at least two to three Woombies in the same size. 
The Woombies are made of a Cotton/Lycra blend and therefore stretch, so they need regular washing to bring them back to their regular taughtness. Woombies are in place of blankets, and are worn more than any other baby garment (the same swaddling method should be used for all baby's sleep, so as to not cause swaddle confussion) so it only makes sense (and more sleep) to have a couple on hand just in case of any little accidents.




Here are some tips on swaddling and how to use the Woombie!
 
Tip#1:
The best time to swaddle a baby is when he/she is calm...Waiting until baby is over-tired and already fussy may make him/her feel worse and unable to "settle".
 
Tip#2:
In the Winter, Put baby into warm pj's first and then into the Woombie. An extra light blanket may be used on top of the Woombie if cold (or you can use our Winter Woombies)... use your judgement while remembering that overheating may be linked to SIDS. In summertime, just a Onesie or a nappy alone is needed.
 
Tip #3:
Please give baby a chance to get used to a new swaddling method! If baby has been tight swaddle for many months , he/she may be confused by the change! Give baby time to adapt.  The Woombie allows for stretch, which is a good thing, and will assist in baby's important Motor Development!
 
Tip #4:
The Woombie may appear smaller than baby, but that is part of the Woombie concept. The stretch fabric does infact stretch to mold to your baby's unique physique!

Tip #5:
The Woombies have been made longer, so your baby can stay in the right size Woombie if they are tall.  It is suggested for added snugness that you gather the material at the end of your baby's feet and tie a ribbon around therefore shortening the Woombie. (Picture below)

Tip #6:
Always position baby safely per Paediatrician recommendations to prevent rolling when using all swaddlers.

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Easy In/Out Design
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  1. Place foot section over baby's feet.
  2. Stretch Woombie behind baby and up to shoulder area.
  3. Zip up Zipper
  4. Do press stud or velcro up.
  5. Place your baby in safe back lying position using SIDS "Sleeping safely recommendations to prevent rolling"
  6. Relax, and enjoy a peaceful night.

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