When can a baby sleep with a blanket?

Until they are around 12 months old, babies should not sleep with blankets (or other soft or loose bedding), as there is a correlation with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) for babies under 6 months old. And for babies between 6 and 12 months old, blankets can potentially cause accidental entrapment, strangulation, and suffocation. Instead, keep babies warm with cozy pajamas or a sleep sack . Every baby is different, and many doctors recommend waiting until your baby is 18 months old to let them sleep with their blanket. When they’re between 12 and 18 months of age, use your discretion or consult your pediatrician first.

How do you swaddle a baby in a blanket?

In Dr. Casares’ expert opinion, the best way to swaddle a baby is to first fold the swaddling blanket into a triangle and lay it down on a flat surface. Fold down the upper corner of the blanket, then place the baby on their back with their feet towards the blanket's bottom corner, so their neck is at the folded edge. Next, wrap one side snugly across the baby’s arms and tuck it in at their side, then fold up the bottom corner of the blanket. Last, wrap the other side of the blanket across the baby’s body and tuck it in at the side. Make sure that your baby is swaddled tightly enough that they can't break out of the swaddle, since loose blankets are a SIDS risk. A baby who is swaddled should always be on their back. Once your baby starts trying to roll , it's time to stop swaddling, the AAP says.

Is it safe to cover a baby with a blanket in a car seat?

Blankets are not safe to use over an infant car seat. Babies are apt to fall asleep in the car, and they should not sleep with blankets covering them, since this can cause rebreathing, which creates a suffocation risk. Plus, a covered car seat obstructs your view of the baby, and you want to have your eyes on your baby as much as possible. Blankets tucked around your baby are safe and can help keep them warm, but always place the blankets in the car seat after you have buckled them in. Underneath the harness, babies should be dressed in just one warm layer that is not bulky. Wearing extra layers or adding blankets before buckling can interfere with the car seat's ability to protect in the case of a crash.

The 13 Best Baby Blankets of 2023, Tested by Verywell Family

A soft, well-constructed baby blanket is a versatile tool for parents of little ones, and it’s a cute yet helpful item to add to a baby registry or bring to a baby shower. Beyond being soft and comfortable (which are non-negotiables), a high-quality baby blanket should hold up long enough to last through the toddler years, and possibly even beyond.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), while babies should not sleep with loose blankets, they can still play on them and may start to form an attachment. Little ones often develop emotional connections with their baby blankets, so they may cling to them for years to come. And on cooler days, a blanket tucked around a baby in their car seat or stroller can help keep them warm. Plus, baby blankets are versatile tools for parents and caregivers, too: They can also be used to swaddle your bundle of joy or act as burp cloths, tummy time mats, changing table cloths, and more.

To find the very best baby blankets, we spoke with pediatricians and reviewed guidance from the AAP regarding sleep safety and how blankets can be used appropriately with babies. Then, we sent 22 blankets home with our editors to use with their babies. After inspecting the blankets' initial quality, they used them as play mats, nursing covers, swaddles, and more, assessing the comfort and durability of the material. They also washed them as needed, following the manufacturers' instructions, noting how well the blankets held up after being washed and dried. After using them for a few weeks, we reinspected the blankets to look for fraying, loose threads, pilling, color bleeding, and more.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Sweet Acorn Knit Baby Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Quilted:

NTBAY Jersey Cotton Quilted Baby Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Hooded:

Hudson Baby Hooded Animal Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Tummy Time:

Burt’s Bees Baby Reversible Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Bamboo:

Emerson and Friends Bamboo Baby Blanket at Emersonandfriends.com

Jump to Review

Best Floral Print:

Pottery Barn Kids Flora Oversized Organic Muslin Baby Blanket at Potterybarnkids.com

Jump to Review

Best Muslin:

aden + anais Dream Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Gift:

Burt's Bees Cable Knit Blanket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Cold Weather:

Pottery Barn Kids Cable Knit Faux Shearling Baby Blanket at Potterybarnkids.com

Jump to Review

Best for Warm Weather:

Parachute Waffle Baby Blanket at Parachute

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

100% organic cotton
Several color options
Retained its high quality after being washed

Cons

Lay flat to dry only

This precious knit blanket from Sweet Acorn is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton (meaning it meets high environmental standards), so it’s soft on your baby’s sensitive skin and is planet-friendly. The roomy blanket measures 43.5 by 30 inches and is great for tummy time or as stroller cushioning to prop up the baby if they’re slouching.

This lovely blanket comes tied in a sweet bow, making it a thoughtful baby shower gift, too. And since it comes in several colors (you can choose between a solid or a diamond pattern in each hue), it’s a great gender-neutral gift, noted one of our editors who’s testing the yellow shade.

While this is primarily a blanket, it’s stretchy enough to be used as a swaddle if desired. It’s machine washable, though the brand recommends laying it flat to dry. (One of our editors draped it over a woven laundry basket to dry and it held up well.) Even after the wash, we noticed no pilling, fading, or stray threads.

Price at time of publication: $38

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 43.5 inches | Material: 100% polyester}

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Thick and durable
Gets softer when washed

Cons

May shrink with wash

This quilted baby blanket is made from sweatshirt-like jersey cotton that got softer with each wash during our testing period. The thicker material holds up through tummy time (even if a big brother wants to join in, according to one of our editors), and we love that it’s machine washable.

We also had no trouble cleaning spit-up out of the blanket: Simply use stain remover and pre-soak it before putting it in the washing machine, and it’s good as new. Some users find that the blanket shrinks in the wash, though our editors have yet to observe this. The cozy blanket comes in several neutral and pastel colors, so you’re sure to find one that matches the nursery decor, and the $15 price tag is a great deal.

Price at time of publication: $15

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: Jersey cotton}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples.

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Macy's

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Cozy hood keeps baby warm
Cute animal patterns
Fleece is soft on the baby’s skin

Cons

Not safe for sleeping

Is there anything cuter than a baby all wrapped up in a wearable blanket? This hooded blanket from Hudson Baby comes in several animal options, including a fox and a moose. Parents aren’t the only ones who will get a kick out of it: One editor’s 10-month-old couldn’t stop smiling at herself in the mirror when she had it on. The plush blanket is made from polyester fleece that makes snuggle time even cozier, and it’s easy to put on your kiddo—just place the hood on their head and wrap the blanket around them.

This baby blanket holds up well in the washer and dryer, too, and it’s spacious enough that your baby can enjoy it well into their toddler years. (A particularly good investment since it’s just $10!) However, note that it isn’t safe for kids to sleep in this blanket since the hood could pose a suffocation risk.

Price at time of publication: Starting at $11

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 28 x 40 inches | Material: 100% polyester}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

4.2/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Reversible
Lots of pattern combinations available
Made from 100% organic cotton

Cons

Size isn’t very versatile

Tummy time is important for helping your baby develop and strengthen their trunk and neck muscles. (It’s also a great opportunity for bonding with parents or a big sibling.) You’ll want a comfortable, clean spot for your baby’s tummy time, so we recommend this soft blanket from Burt’s Bees. It’s made from GOTS-certified 100% organic cotton and is thicker than many other options, so it’s a supportive surface for tummy time.

We love that the reversible blanket has different patterns on either side. There are lots of pattern combinations, too: Most options have stripes on one side and an exciting pattern on the other, like dinosaurs, deer, or tulips. The ringspun blanket is well-stitched and retains its quality after being washed. Our only complaint is that the 30 by 40-inch blanket isn’t quite long enough for a toddler to use in their crib, but it’s the right size for tummy time or play.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: 100% organic cotton}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.8

Maisonette

View On Emersonandfriends.com View On Maisonette.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.2/5

Pros

Fun Western pattern
Stretchy
Lightweight

Cons

Print may not appeal to all tastes

Bamboo material is known for its softness, and this sweet bamboo blanket is no exception. The blanket also features a colorful Western cowgirl print with horses, snakes, boots, and more. The thin, lightweight material makes it a great option to go in a car seat or under a footmuff, and its stretchiness means you can use it as a stroller cover. Plus, it’s a smart choice for summertime.

We didn’t notice any pilling or running colors after washing it multiple times, and it’s still super smooth and stretchy. We also appreciate that you can tumble dry it on low—no waiting for it to air dry. Though it could be more budget-friendly, we feel it’s worth the price because of its multiple uses.

Price at time of publication: $44

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: Not listed | Material: Bamboo}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.8

Pottery Barn Kids

View On Potterybarnkids.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.2/5

Pros

Holds up in the wash
Patterns on both sides
Large

Cons

Pricey

This square baby blanket features a beautiful floral pattern on one side and tiny flowers on the other. It’s made from 100% organic cotton muslin that’s OEKO-TEX-certified, meaning it’s free from over 1,000 harmful chemicals. Because of its large size (47 by 47 inches), it can be used for more than tummy time and padding the stroller. One editor plans to use this as a bedspread or quilt for her little one when she’s older.

Even after frequent laundering, it's still as soft as the day we received it. Plus, there was no pilling or dye bleeding, although the brand does recommend laying it flat to dry only, which may be inconvenient for some families. While $75 is a splurge, this is a high-quality blanket that would make a thoughtful baby shower gift that the expecting parents can get a lot of use from.

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 47 x 47 inches | Material: 100% organic cotton muslin}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Adenandanais.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Breathable
4 layers of material
Can be dried in dryer

Cons

Doesn’t work as a swaddle

Measuring 47 by 47 inches, the Aden + Anais Dream Blanket is a roomy pick that’s great for tummy time or covering your baby’s legs during outings. Made from four layers of 100% organic cotton muslin, it’s plush enough to provide extra support and cushioning for your baby’s head when lying on it. And though it’s multilayered (which we love for durability’s sake), the blanket is still very breathable for your little one’s comfort.

After washing it, we didn’t see any loose threads or faded colors, and we like that it’s safe for the dryer and the washing machine. It also comes in a wide variety of prints, from hearts to animals to Disney characters. Despite its size and shape, keep in mind that this is just a regular baby blanket, not one designed for swaddling. And while $60 is a little pricier than other options, we think you’re getting what you paid for with the multilayered construction and large size.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 47 x 47 inches | Material: 100% organic cotton muslin}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Burtsbeesbaby.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Comes tied with a bow
Many uses
Appealing neutral colors

Cons

Loses a little bit of softness in the wash

A versatile baby blanket like the Burt’s Bees Baby Cable Knit Blanket is an adorable yet practical gift for a baby shower or viewing. It comes tied with a sweet bow, so there’s no need to add one of your own, and since it doesn’t look like it’s only meant for babies, it’s a gift that can grow along with the child or be used in the guest room, too. Measuring 30 by 40 inches, the blanket can be used to keep your little one warm in their car seat, prop them up in their stroller, or for playtime and tummy time.

Available in pink and gray, the cable knit blanket is made from GOTS-certified 100% organic cotton that feels like butter. After a few washes, it loses a tiny bit of its initial softness, but it’s still impressively soft, and we didn’t notice any pilling or tearing after taking it out of the washing machine. For $30, this is a reasonably priced option, whether you’re buying it as a gift or for your own baby.

Price at time of publication: $30

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: 100% organic cotton}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.8

Pottery Barn Kids

View On Potterybarnkids.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Cozy lining
Can be personalized
Warm

Cons

Personalization costs extra
Too thick to use as a swaddle

A cozy blanket is a wise purchase if you’re expecting a fall or winter baby. You can use it to keep them warm in the stroller or their car seat, and it still comes in handy inside during the warmer months. We love this cable knit blanket from Pottery Barn Kids with fluffy faux shearling lining to keep your baby extra snug. The other side is a blend of viscose and nylon, and sweet pom poms are attached to the corners. One of our editors notes that the comfy material keeps her 15-month-old daughter warm in the jogging stroller during early morning runs.

Since it can be customized with the new addition’s name or initials, this would make a great baby gift, though you’ll have to pay an extra fee for the personalization. (You can also choose between several thread colors.) While we appreciate the warmth the thick material provides, note that it’s too thick to be used as a swaddle.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: Faux shearling and a viscose and nylon blend}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.7

Parachute

View On Parachute

Our Ratings

Comfort

4.2/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.6/5

Pros

Lightweight material
Holds up well in the wash

Cons

Air dry only

If you’re expecting a summer baby or live in a warmer climate, we recommend a lightweight option like the Parachute Waffle Baby Blanket. Made from 100% long-staple Turkish cotton, the roomy blanket measures 36 by 50 inches and is machine washable. Though the brand suggests line drying the blanket, it also says you can put it in the dryer on a low setting with wool dryer balls. We decided to air-dry it, and it felt as good as new after.

Whether you choose the light blush or the beige, this neutral blanket will blend in with any nursery decor. Its lightweight feel makes it ideal for milder weather, though we recommend a heavier blanket like the Pottery Barn Kids Luxe Cable Knit Baby Blanket for colder temperatures.

Price at time of publication: $59

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 36 x 50 inches | Material: 100% organic cotton}

4.5

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Adenandanais.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

4/5
Durability

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Lightweight muslin material
Budget-friendly multi-pack
Versatile

Cons

No flaps or hooks for swaddling

The blankets in this versatile multi-pack from Aden + Anais function as baby swaddles or blankets, so you can get several years of use out of them. The lightweight muslin is great for the warmer months and makes wrapping them a breeze, and we appreciate that they’re breathable for transitional weather. While first-time swaddlers experienced a bit of a learning curve during our test, once they got the hang of it, they felt confident swaddling their babies with these after just a day.

When your baby is ready to move on from the swaddle (and sleep sacks, after that), these make cozy, spacious baby blankets—they can even be used as changing table covers or burp cloths. Measuring 47 by 47 inches, the square blankets are great for tummy time and beyond, and we love that the multi-pack comes in so many patterns and color combinations. Plus, at $60 for four, each blanket comes out to $15, making them one of the most budget-friendly picks on our list.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 47 x 47 inches | Material: 100% cotton muslin}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.5

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Affordable 7-pack
Lots of patterns and colors available
Machine washable

Cons

Blankets become less soft over time

For a budget-friendly addition to your nursery, we recommend these Simple Joys by Carter’s baby blankets, which come in a multipack of seven for under $22. The 100% cotton blankets are machine washable and easy to take along for on-the-go diaper changes, and we love how many colors and patterns are included in each bunch. Plus, the lightweight fabric takes up little space in a diaper bag or the nursery, and the 47 by 47-inch blankets work as swaddles, too.

One of our editors used these to swaddle her newborn and as a blanket for her 2-year-old, and it was a great pick for both. We did find that the quality does decrease as you wash it, and it isn’t the coziest pick. However, at just $22 for seven versatile baby blankets, we think it’s well worth it.

Price at time of publication: $22

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 47 x 47 inches | Material: 100% cotton}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

4.5

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Sears.com

Our Ratings

Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Great cushioning for tummy time
Several design options

Cons

Too thick for warmer weather

This plush blanket provides ample cushioning for tummy time, and the thick fabric is warm and snuggly for colder weather. In addition to the plush polyester, there’s a satiny border around the blanket. We love that it comes in lots of different patterns and colors to coordinate with your nursery—the brand also sells matching pillows, mobiles, and more if you want a full theme. (We particularly like the elephant and sheep options.)

However, since it is quite thick, this blanket is not the best choice for summer, particularly while you’re outside with the stroller. We recommend the Parachute Waffle Baby Blanket for a lightweight, breathable blanket.

Price at time of publication: $30

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: Polyester}

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

How We Rated Baby Blankets

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best baby blankets we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These baby blankets are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great baby blankets, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These baby blankets are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend baby blankets with this rating. You won't find any on our list.

We Also Tested

Mushie Muslin Baby Swaddle Blanket: This blanket holds up well in the wash and comes in a wide variety of colors. However, it isn’t very soft, so it’s not an ideal pick for a blanket your baby will be snuggling with.
Crate & Barrel Reversible Chenille Dot Baby Stroller Blanket: While this blanket is super soft to the touch, it had pulls in the fabric and threads coming loose after just one wash.
Simka Rose Waffle Baby Blanket: This blanket wasn’t soft to begin with, and it became more abrasive with each wash. Ultimately, we did not feel the $30 price tag was justified.
Copper Pearl Knit Swaddle Blanket: Though this baby blanket is super snuggly, it easily snagged in the wash, pulling the corner fabric. If you’re willing to hand wash this for special occasions, then we recommend it, but it’s not a practical pick for parents who plan to use it often.
MakeMake Organics Cotton Swaddle: We like that this swaddle blanket is made from fair trade, organic materials. Unfortunately, it started pilling after the very first wash, so we do not recommend it.

How We Tested Baby Blankets

Before testing the blankets, we consulted with Tomomi Hayashi, MD, a California-based pediatrician, to discuss safe sleep and blanket use, and reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on safe sleep, swaddling, and car seat and stroller safety. For additional insights on baby blanket safety and construction, we also spoke with Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, the founder of Modern Mommy Doc.

Based on thorough market research and conversations with our experts, we selected 22 baby blankets and sent them home with our editors to evaluate for comfort, durability, ease of use, and value. To test the blankets' durability, we washed them as instructed when needed and took note of any pilling, fraying, or fading. We also observed whether the blankets shrunk in the wash or became rougher to the touch.

To assess comfort and quality, editors used them with their babies during tummy time, while nursing, and more. We also tucked them around our little ones in their strollers and car seats to keep them warm and snug, making sure to never fully cover the babies' faces, since rebreathing poses suffocation and overheating risks. After using these blankets at home for a few weeks, we chose the 13 best ones for keeping your baby cozy and safe.

What to Look for in Baby Blankets

Materials

Baby blankets come in all different types of materials, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Above all, these blankets should be made from a breathable fabric to allow for easy airflow to and from the baby, Dr. Casares says. Common materials for baby blankets include:

Muslin: Light, breathable, and stretchy, muslin is a great choice for days when you want a little coverage but don't need much weather protection, according to Dr. Casares. Plus, muslin typically washes well and doesn't shrink in the dryer.
Cotton/organic cotton: Soft, airy, durable, and safe for a baby's sensitive skin. Cotton can usually be machine-washed and dried without a problem and makes for a great everyday baby blanket.
Fleece: Very soft and warm with a slightly nubby texture. This is an especially good fabric for colder months or climates, and it's not necessarily too heavy for warmer months, either—it's just less breathable than other options. Fleece is ideal for a stroller blanket since it will keep the baby warm on walks, says Dr. Casares.
Jersey knit: Super airy and lightweight with a bit of stretch and a smooth, soft feel. A lot of adult loungewear clothing is made from jersey knit, so you know it's cozy. It tends to wash well without issue and is a great option for swaddling, says Dr. Casares.
Bamboo: Great for sensitive skin, soft to the touch, somewhat stretchy, and breathable. Bamboo is becoming an increasingly popular fabric because it feels so soft and is machine-washable and eco-friendly. And, thanks to its stretch, it can double as a swaddle, too.

Durability

Kids will put their well-loved baby blanket through a lot, which means it needs to be able to withstand all of the wear and tear that comes with childhood. Between spit-up, accidents, mud, dust, milk, and whatever else a kid can manage to spill on their blanket, it will go through the washer and dryer pretty regularly over the years. With that in mind, a baby blanket needs to be convenient for you to wash. Read the care instructions before your purchase—if a blanket is air-dry-only, consider whether that fits in with your laundry routine.

Plus, you want to choose a durable blanket to avoid unreasonable tearing, fading, or pilling. Consider the material the blanket is made from and look at the stitching to see if it's strong or if it’s likely to unravel. Additionally, since fraying and loose threads pose a choking hazard, you’ll want to keep a close eye on how the blanket holds up, Dr. Casares says.

Safety

Babies under 12 months old should not sleep with any loose items in their crib or bassinet, according to the AAP. Older babies and toddlers may sleep with a blanket, but make sure that it has no loose threads to avoid a choking hazard. For babies under 1, blankets can be used safely as mats to make tummy time more comfortable. They’re also handy props when your baby is slouching in their stroller, the AAP notes. And on cooler days, a baby blanket can help keep your little one in their stroller or car seat—you’ll want to tuck it around them, making sure that it doesn’t cover the entire car seat or stroller opening, since that can lead to rebreathing and related suffocation risks.

Comfort

There’s no point in buying a baby blanket that’s not comfortable. After all, this is going to be the blanket they sleep with (when they’re old enough), bring in the car with them, insist on taking to overnight stays at relatives’ homes, and carry around the house—so it needs to be cozy. Plus, it’s a great tool for soothing your baby to sleep, says Dr. Casares, so a comfortable baby blanket can help you and your baby develop healthy sleeping patterns in those early months.

And if you’re wondering whether your baby is comfortable in their blanket, don’t worry: Your baby will tell you if they’re not comfortable, Dr. Casares says. “If your baby is crying, sweating, or downright fussy, consider taking the blanket off and trying it again,” she advises.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can a baby sleep with a blanket?

Until they are around 12 months old, babies should not sleep with blankets (or other soft or loose bedding), as there is a correlation with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) for babies under 6 months old. And for babies between 6 and 12 months old, blankets can potentially cause accidental entrapment, strangulation, and suffocation. Instead, keep babies warm with cozy pajamas or a sleep sack.
Every baby is different, and many doctors recommend waiting until your baby is 18 months old to let them sleep with their blanket. When they’re between 12 and 18 months of age, use your discretion or consult your pediatrician first.

Learn More: Learn More: When Can My Baby Sleep With a Blanket?
How do you swaddle a baby in a blanket?

In Dr. Casares’ expert opinion, the best way to swaddle a baby is to first fold the swaddling blanket into a triangle and lay it down on a flat surface. Fold down the upper corner of the blanket, then place the baby on their back with their feet towards the blanket's bottom corner, so their neck is at the folded edge. Next, wrap one side snugly across the baby’s arms and tuck it in at their side, then fold up the bottom corner of the blanket. Last, wrap the other side of the blanket across the baby’s body and tuck it in at the side.
Make sure that your baby is swaddled tightly enough that they can't break out of the swaddle, since loose blankets are a SIDS risk. A baby who is swaddled should always be on their back. Once your baby starts trying to roll, it's time to stop swaddling, the AAP says.

Learn More: Learn More: How to Swaddle a Baby
Is it safe to cover a baby with a blanket in a car seat?

Blankets are not safe to use over an infant car seat. Babies are apt to fall asleep in the car, and they should not sleep with blankets covering them, since this can cause rebreathing, which creates a suffocation risk. Plus, a covered car seat obstructs your view of the baby, and you want to have your eyes on your baby as much as possible.
Blankets tucked around your baby are safe and can help keep them warm, but always place the blankets in the car seat after you have buckled them in. Underneath the harness, babies should be dressed in just one warm layer that is not bulky. Wearing extra layers or adding blankets before buckling can interfere with the car seat's ability to protect in the case of a crash.

Learn More: Learn More: Winter Coats and Car Seat Safety

Why Trust Verywell Family

Phoebe Sklansky is Verywell Family’s Associate Commerce Editor. As a commerce writer and avid shopper herself, she enjoys helping readers find the best products for their unique needs. She’s researched hundreds of baby products and has tested dozens in our lab, from strollers to baby swings to diaper bags. For this story, she spoke with Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, the founder of Modern Mommy Doc about blanket safety and construction. (Though she’s in her twenties, Phoebe still has her baby blanket, named Pia.)

Additional reporting by:

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. She has personal experience in researching and purchasing a variety of children’s products and key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include materials, design, and user reviews.

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