Stretch or Muslin Swaddle: Which is Best?

Swaddling is one of the best ways to help your newborn baby feel snug, secure, and comforted— similar to how they felt in the womb. Two of the most popular options for swaddles are stretch swaddles and muslin swaddles, each with its own unique benefits. Let’s break them down so you can choose the best fit for your little one.

Stretch Swaddle: Snug and Cozy

A stretch swaddle is usually made from a blend of organic cotton with a touch of elastane. The cotton makes it breathable whilst the elastane gives a bit of stretch, making it easy to wrap up your baby snugly while still giving them some wiggle room. 

Why you’ll love it:
1. Perfect for newborns who love being tightly swaddled – It mimics the feeling in the womb, helping babies to feel secure and settled.
2. Helps prevent the startle reflex – Keeps little arms tucked in, so sudden jerks won’t wake them up.
3. Super easy to wrap and re-wrap – The stretchiness makes it simple to get a snug fit that generally stays more snug for longer.
4. Doubles as a lightweight blanket or nursing cover – Soft and cozy enough for multiple uses.
5. Great for cooler weather – The fabric is a bit thicker, offering extra warmth at night.

Check out our beautiful Jersey cotton stretch swaddle range, all hand illustrated in Australia. 

Muslin Swaddle: Light, Breathable, and Versatile

Muslin swaddles are made from airy, breathable cotton that feels delicate but gets softer with every wash. They’re known for their lightweight, open weave that helps regulate temperature.

Why you’ll love it:
1. Perfect for warm weather – The breathable fabric keeps your baby cool and comfy, which makes them perfect for Australian climate.
2. Multi-use – Use it as a swaddle, burp cloth, stroller shade, play mat, or nursing cover. 
3. Gives babies a bit more movement – Unlike stretch swaddles, muslin allows for a looser wrap, letting little arms and legs move more freely. 
4. Great for transitioning out of swaddling – Because it’s not as tight, it’s a gentle way to ease your baby into sleeping without a swaddle.
5. Gets softer with every wash – The more you use it, the cozier it becomes.

Our Muslin swaddles are made from 100% Organic muslin cotton and each unique design comes in a lovely little bag, perfect for gifting and everyday use. 

Which One Should You Choose?

Many parents find that having a mix of both swaddles is the perfect solution! Use a stretch swaddle for bedtime when your baby needs extra security, and a muslin swaddle for daytime naps and versatility.

• Need a snug, womb-like wrap? Go with a stretch swaddle.

• Looking for a breathable, all-purpose swaddle? Muslin is your best bet.

• Want something warm and cozy for sleep? Stretch swaddles keep babies snug at night.

• Need a lightweight option for naps or travel? Muslin swaddles are perfect for on-the-go.

Why Not Have Both?

It really depends on your baby’s needs and what works best for your family.

For Newborn babies we recommend a stretch swaddle for cozy swaddling and restful sleep as well as a few muslin swaddles because of how versatile they are, for on-the-go nursing, window covers, pram covers and as a light blanket.

Stretch swaddles and muslin swaddles are also a beautiful, very useful baby gift idea, because you will use them everyday with your bub. 

Our ranges of swaddles-

Stretch swaddles:

Check out our beautiful Jersey cotton stretch swaddle range, all hand illustrated in Australia. Perfect for newborn babies, baby showers and gift ideas. We recommend getting a few, so if one is in the wash, you have another on hand (which will come in handy, trust us!)

Muslin swaddles:

Our Muslin swaddles are made from 100% Organic muslin cotton and each unique design comes in a lovely little bag, perfect for gifting and everyday use. We make our muslin swaddles a little bigger so you can also use them as flat cot sheets when its suitable and safe for bedding, so you will keep and use them for many years to come.

For a full coordinated look, match your swaddles with our beautiful cot bedding range 

Choosing the right swaddle depends on your baby’s comfort needs, but both swaddles offer the security and warmth needed for peaceful sleep.