Transitioning TipsUpdated 4 hours ago
As your baby grows and develops, there comes an important milestone – moving from swaddling to arms-free sleep. This transition helps keep your little one safe once they start rolling, while still ensuring comfort and a good night’s sleep.
When to Transition
You should begin the transition when your baby shows signs of rolling, such as:
Rolling over during playtime
Pushing up during tummy time
Lifting and flopping legs to the side
Attempting to roll while swaddled
Once these signs appear, it’s time to move away from arms-in swaddling for safety reasons.
Why Transition?
Safety first: Babies need free arms to push up and move once rolling begins.
Supports development: Arms-free sleep allows natural movement and self-soothing.
Better long-term sleep habits: Transitioning at the right time sets the foundation for more independent sleep.
How to Transition
Transitioning doesn’t have to be all at once. Many families find a gradual approach works best:
Start with one arm free
Use the Love to Dream™ Transition Bag or Transition Suit. Zip off one wing or use the self-soothing sleeve with cuff down. Keep the other arm snug for security.Choose the right sleep session
Begin with a daytime nap or a nighttime sleep – whichever feels less disruptive for your baby.Move to both arms free
Once your baby is comfortable, release the second arm. This may take a few days to a week.Adjust as needed
Every baby is different – some adapt quickly, others need more time. Patience and consistency are key.
Helpful Tips
Start with your baby’s less dominant arm (often the left) when unzipping the first wing.
Expect some restlessness at first – this is normal.
If your baby is already rolling, move straight to both arms free using the Transition Suit with self-soothing sleeves.
Our Transition Range
The Love to Dream™ Transition range is designed to make this milestone easier:
Transition Bag: Gently moves your baby from swaddling to arms-free sleep with zip-off wings.
Transition Suit: Works the same way but with the added option of self-soothing sleeves and fold-over cuffs.
Remember
Every baby is unique. Whether the transition takes a few nights or a couple of weeks, staying consistent will help your little one adjust. And soon enough, they’ll be enjoying the freedom (and safety) of arms-free sleep.
For more safe sleep tips, explore our Help Centre.