Top 5 Reasons Why Your Baby Hates Being Swaddled

Swaddling has been used for centuries to help newborns feel snug, safe, and calm. Many babies love the warm, womb-like feeling, and parents often rely on swaddling to encourage better sleep. However, not all babies enjoy being swaddled — and that’s completely normal! If your little one fusses, cries, or wriggles out of the blanket every time you try to wrap them, you might be wondering: Why does my baby hate being swaddled? 🤔

In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 reasons why some babies dislike swaddling, along with helpful tips to make your baby more comfortable.

1. Your Baby Doesn’t Like Feeling Restricted 🚫🤱

Some babies simply don’t like the feeling of being wrapped tightly. While swaddling mimics the womb, certain infants prefer to stretch their arms and legs freely. If your baby is constantly breaking out of the swaddle or gets upset as soon as you wrap them, they may be signaling that they want more mobility.

👉 Tip: Try a looser swaddle or a wearable sleep sack that allows more room for movement while still providing comfort.

2. They’re Too Hot or Too Cold 🌡️❄️☀️

Temperature plays a big role in whether your baby enjoys being swaddled. Overheating is a common reason babies resist swaddling. If your baby feels sweaty, flushed, or restless, the blanket may be too warm. On the other hand, if they seem fussy and their hands or feet feel cool, they may be too cold.

👉 Tip: Always choose a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or muslin, and adjust clothing layers based on the room temperature.

3. The Swaddle Technique Isn’t Right 🌀

Babies are sensitive to how they’re wrapped. If the swaddle is too tight, it can feel uncomfortable and even restrict healthy hip movement. If it’s too loose, your baby may not feel secure and could become frustrated when the blanket comes undone.

👉 Tip: Practice your swaddling technique or use Velcro/swaddle sacks that are easier and safer to secure. Remember to always leave enough room for hip and leg movement to avoid hip dysplasia.

4. Your Baby Has Reached a New Development Stage 🧠✨

Newborns often enjoy swaddling, but as they grow, their preferences can change. Around 2–3 months old, many babies begin to roll or want to use their arms more, which makes swaddling less appealing. At this stage, swaddling can also become unsafe.

👉 Tip: If your baby is starting to roll, it’s time to transition out of swaddling. Switch to a sleep sack or wearable blanket that allows for free arm movement while still providing coziness.

5. Your Baby Simply Doesn’t Like It 🤷♀️💡

Just like adults, babies have unique personalities and preferences. Some may love swaddling, while others resist it from day one. If you’ve tried adjusting temperature, technique, and timing but your baby still cries when swaddled, it may simply not be for them.

👉 Tip: Don’t stress! There are other ways to help your baby feel safe and sleep well, such as white noise machines, gentle rocking, baby carriers, or skin-to-skin contact.

Final Thoughts 💭💖

Swaddling can be a wonderful tool for helping many babies sleep better — but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If your baby hates being swaddled, you’re not doing anything wrong. Instead, pay attention to their cues, experiment with alternatives, and always prioritize safety and comfort.

Remember: every baby is different. Some love the coziness of a snug wrap, while others prefer to snooze with arms wide open. Trust your instincts and adapt to what works best for your little one. 🌙✨