First-Time Parents, Resources for New and Expecting Parents

What Is a Receiving Blanket?

A receiving blanket is a thin piece of soft fabric used to wrap around a newborn baby to prevent movement. Newborns tend to have a startle reflex and it can wake them. When they’re wrapped up tightly it allows them to feel secure and comforted.

These types of blankets are typically made from cotton or flannel and are designed to keep the baby warm and comfortable.

A newborn may receive their first receiving blanket from the hospital when they are born. American hospitals typically use a white blanket with blue and pink strips, a gender-neutral design new parents will love. Hospitals have used this design for over 50 years.

Many new parents will receive most of their essentials as baby shower gifts such as receiving blankets, baby onesies, bibs, diapers and so much more.

Reduce risk of SIDS by swaddling newborns to make them more secure. Baby swaddled.

What are Receiving Blankets Used for?

The purpose of a receiving blanket is to swaddle a newborn. Wrapping this soft blanket snuggly around your newborn recreates the environment of the mom’s womb, helping the baby sleep better.

Baby Blanket

What is the difference between a receiving blanket and a swaddle?

Unlike a traditional receiving blanket, a swaddle blanket features wings that wrap around securely around a baby so that they are unable to wiggle out of the blanket.

Both blankets accomplish the same task, but receiving blankets are multi functional and can be used in a variety of ways:

  • Cover when breastfeeding
  • Car seat or stroller cover
  • Diaper changing mat
  • Burp cloth

What are the dimensions of a receiving blanket?

The two most common sizes for a receiving blanket are 30 x 40 inches rectangle or a 24 x 24 inches square blanket.

We recommend a smaller size blanket, it makes swaddling much easier.

Baby blanket

How many receiving blankets do you need?

Our recommendation on how many receiving blankets you will need depends on your wash routine. Generally, a pack of 4 or 6 is a great starting point.

Baby Swaddle

How to properly use a receiving blanket

Follow these steps ton ensure your little one is wrapped up safely when swaddling

Step 1: Spread the blanket out flat and fold the top corner over

Step 2: Lay your little one face up with their head over the folded corner

Step 3: Wrap the right corner over and tuck it under the baby

Step 4: Bring the bottom corner up over their feet

Step 5: Wrap the left corner over and tuck it under the baby

Step 6: Final step, make sure the blanket isn’t wrapped to tight and their lower has body has enough space to wiggle around.

Baby Receiving Blankets are a Must-Have On Any Baby Registry

Find the best selection of baby receiving blankets and swaddle blankets from The Laughing Giraffe® that offer comfort and coziness. Our blankets are available in 100% cotton, 100% polyester – ideal for sublimation printing, poly-cotton blend, and new to our lineup – fleece. The Laughing Giraffe® has been providing decorations with quality products for over 20+ years at great low wholesale prices.

Follow The Laughing Giraffe® on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on new promotional codes, and new product updates.

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