When checking off newborn essentials, you’ll likely see both "swaddle blanket" and "receiving blanket" on the list. While they may seem similar, they are not the same. Understanding their different purposes will help you better care for your little one.
If you’re new to these bedding items, we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive deeper into their differences to understand when to use each one and why both are essential. This is one of the most important comparisons to ensure your baby’s safe and sound sleep.
Swaddle Blankets: The “Expert” for Sleep
Sole Purpose: Swaddling the Baby for Sleep
The sole job of a swaddle blanket is to wrap your baby snugly for sleep. Bundling your little one imitates the cozy and secure feeling of a mom’s womb. This snug embrace helps calm babies, prevents the Moro reflex, and promotes deeper, more restful sleep.
A common fear is that swaddling might hinder breastfeeding because of a lack of skin-to-skin contact. However, according to the National Library of Medicine, swaddling does not have a negative impact on breastfeeding long term.
These amazing benefits are exactly why swaddling is so incredibly important during your baby’s first few months.
Identifying Features
Swaddle Blankets usually come in large squares. The most common dimensions are 40x40 or 46x46 inches. Such expansive sizes allow you to swaddle your baby tightly and safely.
Breathable and slightly stretchy fabrics, such as muslin, cotton jersey, or bamboo, are the preferred swaddle materials. These fabrics ensure the swaddle can wrap your little one snugly while keeping them comfortable and sweat-free.
At SwaddleAn, we craft our swaddles from 95% bamboo rayon. This material offers cloud-like softness, breathability, and coziness all at once.
Check out SwaddleAn Bamboo Swaddle Blanket Bestsellers
Receiving Blankets: The “Helper” for All Situations
Multi-Purpose: For Everything... Except Swaddling for Sleep
A receiving blanket got its name because it was used to receive a baby at birth. Today, it's a versatile blanket used for many things, from swaddling to burp cloths.
Identifying Features
These blankets usually come in small rectangles or squares (under 40x40 inches). They are often made from thin flannel or cotton, as these materials don't need a lot of stretch.
Common Uses
As mentioned, receiving blankets are incredibly versatile and you can use it for many different things:
- Use it as a liner when you lay your baby down.
- Drape it over yourself for privacy while breastfeeding or over a stroller to shade your baby from the sun.
- Use it as a burp cloth or for quick cleanups.
- Spread it out to create a temporary play mat.
A Detailed Comparison of Swaddles and Receiving Blankets
Here is a comparison chart to help you grasp an overview of their differences:
| Criteria | Swaddle Blanket | Receiving Blanket |
| Purpose | To swaddle babies for sleep | Multipurpose (cleaning, lining, covering, etc.) |
| Size | Large (usually larger than 40x40 inches) | Small (usually smaller than 40x40 inches) |
| Material | Muslin, bamboo, jersey (stretchy) | Thin flannel, cotton (less stretchy) |
| Flexibility | Low | Very high |
| Effectiveness for swaddling | High, safe for swaddling | Low, not recommended |
Can You Use a Receiving Blanket to Swaddle a Baby for Sleep?
The short answer is NO, you shouldn’t use a receiving blanket to swaddle a baby for sleep. A receiving blanket is too small to wrap your baby securely and safely, especially as they grow.
A receiving blanket's stiff material and limited size make it easier for babies to wiggle out of the swaddle. This poses a risk of loose fabric covering their faces—one of the most common safety hazards for infants. Always follow safety guidelines and use the right sleep aid to keep your little one safe.
Different Roles, Perfect Match!
The key takeaway is this: use swaddle blankets for sleeping, and receiving blankets for other tasks. They don’t replace each other; instead, they complement each other perfectly.
Having several swaddle blankets for safe, quality sleep and some receiving blankets for daily use is a wise choice. If you’re seeking a high-quality swaddle for your little one, look no further. Visit our swaddle blanket collections now to experience the difference for your baby!
Related Blog Post
Sleep Sack vs Swaddle Blanket: Which Is Best for Your Baby?
References
- Risks and Benefits of Swaddling Healthy Infants: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28394766/