ANCSLEEP BLOG

Swaddling is one of the oldest and most trusted ways to help newborns feel calm and secure. But walk down the baby aisle or search online, and you’ll quickly discover that there’s more than one way to wrap a baby—and more than one type of fabric to use.

From traditional blankets to modern zip-up sacks, and from cotton muslin to stretchy bamboo, choosing the right swaddling method and material can make a big difference in how well your baby sleeps.

Here’s a guide to different swaddling techniques and materials to help you find what works best for your little one.

Swaddling has been used for centuries—and for good reason. A well-wrapped baby often sleeps longer and more soundly, leading many tired parents to call swaddling a “sleep secret.” But why does wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket have such a powerful effect on their ability to rest?

The answer lies in biology, comfort, and the need for security in the earliest days of life. Let’s explore how swaddling works and why it can be such a powerful tool in helping babies (and their caregivers) get better sleep.

Ask any seasoned parent and they’ll tell you—when in doubt, move. Whether it’s a gentle sway in your arms, a walk around the block, or a slow rock in a chair, motion has long been one of the most effective tools for soothing babies to sleep.

But what is it about motion that makes babies yawn and drift off? And how can parents use this sleep-inducing power safely and effectively?

Let’s take a closer look at the science behind motion and baby sleep—and how you can make the most of this age-old strategy.

In the early weeks and months of parenthood, getting your baby to sleep can feel like solving a puzzle blindfolded. Many tired parents find themselves turning to baby swings for relief—after all, the gentle motion seems to work like magic. But while swings can be soothing tools for fussy babies, it’s important to know the risks and safety guidelines when it comes to letting babies sleep in them.

Let’s break down what the research and pediatricians say about babies sleeping in swings—and how you can use them safely and effectively.

When a new baby arrives, many parents instinctively tiptoe around the house, lower their voices, and silence anything that might make a peep. While this well-meaning hush may feel protective, it could actually backfire when it comes to helping your baby become a deep, resilient sleeper.

In fact, exposing your baby to normal household noise during sleep might be one of the best things you can do to help them develop healthy, adaptable sleep habits.

Any exhausted parent who has driven around the neighborhood at 10 p.m. with a fussy baby in the backseat knows: sometimes, the car is the only thing that works. For generations, weary caregivers have turned to the gentle hum of the road as a last-ditch effort to get their little one to sleep. But have you ever wondered why a simple drive is so effective?

Here’s a closer look at the science and psychology behind why driving can help babies fall asleep—and how to use it wisely.

Newborn sleep can feel unpredictable, with frequent wakings and irregular patterns. That’s because babies are not born with a fully developed circadian rhythm—the internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. Instead, their sleep-wake cycle gradually matures over the first few months of life. Understanding how circadian rhythms develop can help parents set realistic expectations and create an environment that supports better sleep.

Sleep is one of the most talked-about topics for new parents—and for good reason. Babies’ sleep patterns can feel unpredictable, leaving parents desperate for answers and some much-needed rest. One of the key factors influencing a baby’s sleep is melatonin, the "sleep hormone" responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycles. But did you know that melatonin production is not fully developed in newborns? Understanding how melatonin develops in babies can shed light on their unique sleep patterns and help parents support their child’s sleep as they grow.

Here’s a deep dive into the fascinating journey of melatonin development in babies, why it’s important, and what you can do to encourage better sleep during this critical time.

One of the most common questions new parents have revolves around sleep—for both themselves and their baby. Feeding methods, particularly breastfeeding and formula feeding, can influence sleep patterns in unique ways. While both approaches provide essential nourishment for your baby, they come with distinct effects on nighttime rest and sleep routines. Understanding these differences can help you navigate the early months of parenthood with more confidence and clarity.

Teething is a significant milestone in a baby's development, but it's often accompanied by discomfort that can disrupt sleep for both infants and their parents. If you’re navigating the tumultuous waters of teething, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into what teething is, how it affects sleep, and tips to help ease this challenging phase.