Welcoming a newborn into the world brings a steep learning curve, and perhaps no topic is more debated in those early weeks than the "perfect swaddle." For centuries, parents have wrapped their babies to mimic the snug environment of the womb, but the transition from traditional cloth wraps to modern swaddle sacks has left many wondering which option truly supports better sleep and safety.
Choosing between a wrap and a sack isn't just about convenience; it’s about hip health, temperature regulation, and infant safety. Here is the 2026 guide to help you decide which is best for your bub.
The Tradition: Traditional Muslin Wraps
Traditional swaddling involves using a large square of breathable fabric, usually muslin or jersey, to manually wrap a baby.
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The Pros: Wraps are incredibly versatile. They can be adjusted to fit babies of any size and can double as a nursing cover or a light pram blanket.
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The Cons: There is a skill involved. A wrap that is too loose can become a suffocation hazard, while a wrap that is too tight can lead to overheating or hip issues.
According to Red Nose Australia, any wrap must allow for "hip healthy" movement, meaning the baby's legs should be able to bend up and out at the hips. If you find that your bub is particularly restless or you are worried about their physical development, a consultation with Mortdale Physiotherapy can provide peace of mind regarding infant physical milestones and hip positioning.
The Modern Choice: Swaddle Sacks
Swaddle sacks (or "zip up swaddles") have become the go to for many modern Australian parents. These are essentially wearable blankets with a zip or Velcro closure.
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The Pros: They are virtually "foolproof." There is no risk of the fabric coming undone and covering the baby’s face. Many also feature an "arms up" position, which Red Nose Australia notes can allow for natural self-soothing and keep the baby's hands near their face, a natural reflex for comfort.
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The Cons: They are size-specific, meaning you will need to buy new ones as your baby grows.
Safety and Temperature Regulation
Regardless of which style you choose, the Australian Government Pregnancy, Birth and Baby service emphasises two non-negotiables: Always sleep baby on their back and avoid overheating.
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TOG Ratings: Check the TOG (Thermal Overall Grade) of your swaddle sack to ensure it matches the room temperature.
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Natural Fibres: Whether it’s a wrap or a sack, stick to natural fibres like cotton or bamboo to prevent heat from being trapped.
As a mum, your own rest is just as important. To ensure you can fall back asleep quickly after a middle-of-the-night nappy change, applying Sleepybelly Magnesium Body Cream to your own legs can help settle your nervous system and reduce any postpartum muscle tension.
When to Stop Swaddling
The most important rule of swaddling is knowing when to stop. As soon as your baby shows signs of being able to roll over, you must transition to an "arms-free" sleeping bag. This is a critical safety milestone to prevent the baby from being stuck face down without the use of their arms.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the transition into motherhood or have concerns about your physical recovery during this time, The Mama Physio provides specialised postnatal assessments. They can help you understand the changes in your body and ensure you are moving safely while caring for your new arrival.
Supporting Your Own Sleep
While you focus on your bub’s sleep environment, don’t neglect your own. Your body is still recovering from the physical demands of pregnancy and birth. Continuing to use your Sleepybelly Pregnancy Pillow during the postpartum period can provide much-needed support for your back and hips while side sleeping, especially during those long nights of nursing.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the traditional wrap or a modern swaddle sack, the "best" option is the one that keeps your baby safe, comfortable, and hip healthy. By following safe sleep guidelines and listening to your bub’s cues, you can create a peaceful sleep environment for the whole family.
At Sleepybelly, we believe that a rested mama is a confident mama. Our mission is to support you through every stage of the journey, from the first trimester to the first night at home with your bub. To help you best prepare for every aspect of newborn sleep check out our expert guide: Before Baby Arrives by Carlene Rotblat.
