When newborns are welcomed into this world our instinct is to keep them safe – which is where muslin baby wraps come into play. I love the material – it’s super soft – perfect for swaddling newborn babies up in womb-like comfort.
Muslin is natural
Muslin is made from cotton, meaning it’s natural and even has hypoallergenic properties to keep sensitive skin all the more safe. Because it’s typically made with a single, open weave it’s also lightweight and breathable — perfect for keeping babies feeling as snug as the proverbial bug without overheating during the warm summers we get in Australia. We all know that sleep is really important for babies’ development, so it makes sense to keep children as comfortable as possible while they’re drifting off into dreamland.
If you’ve read my blog before you’ll know that the environment is important to me, which is another reason why I love muslin baby wraps. I’m always drawn to brands that make sure they’re cotton is sourced ethically, in ways that are kind to nature. Take the highest quality muslin made using organically grown cotton and low-impact dyes and an artist’s touch to create a unique print design and voila. Add a bib and washcloth, all made from the same featherlight muslin that dries quickly, and you have a thoughtful gift to celebrate the arrival of a newborn baby.
Muslin baby wraps are versatile
Did you know that when you’re taking your newborn for a walk you can clip a muslin wrap to the pram to protect bub from harsh sun and insects without restricting the flow of air? And when you’re ready to introduce baby’s tummy-time, stop off at a nearby park and spread a good quality muslin wrap on the grass so they can take in the sights, sounds and smells around them — no activity toys needed — nature provides all the sensory delights.
Designs to love
Muslin baby wraps with engaging designs and a pop of colour seem to be the ones little ones love the best. My youngest son’s wrap became his comforter — perhaps because it was with him from the beginning of his life. He’d reach for his wrap when he was sick, upset and when he was heading off to bed. It stayed with him until he was about six. Thankfully, I had made half a dozen identical wraps before he was born so there was always one for him when another was in the wash or had been inadvertently left behind at a friend’s house.
These days, muslin baby wraps are popular gifts for new mothers. In addition to all their traditional uses, they provide privacy when draped over mum’s chest when breastfeeding their baby, which is why I’ve spent some time finding the ideal designer options that are as striking as they are thoughtful. Colour is key. While primary tones are good for instant stimulation, I prefer calming hues like warm pinks, gentle blues and my personal favourite, purple.
You’ll find a range of eye-catching colours and prints in my customised collection of muslin baby wraps that will appeal to mums and dads.