How To Bind A Baby Blanket? Step by Step Instructions

It’s one thing to learn how to make baby blankets, but quite another to master the art of binding them. You can bind it with some baby blankets if you like. The specifics are provided below, and we’ve included some related discussions of infant blankets as well.

If you are a parent for the first time, you will find a wealth of information in this article. Give it your undivided attention and read it from beginning to end.

What is a baby blanket?

It’s easy to get a baby blanket that suits your style. However, there are essentially four distinct categories of baby blankets: receiving blankets, swaddling blankets, security blankets, and crib blankets.

While the swaddling blankets are designed specifically for swaddling, the receiving blanket can be used for a variety of purposes. A baby’s security blanket is a special blanket designed to comfort and soothe a young child.

Last but not least, crib blankets come in a variety of forms, from sheets to full bedding ensembles. However, security and convenience should be your top priorities when making your selection.

The benefit of baby blanket

A sense of security

One of the greatest advantages of baby blankets is that they help infants transition out of their familiar environment (the womb) into the outside world while still feeling the comfort and security they were accustomed to within. Although swaddling blankets are ideal for this purpose, any snugly-fitting blanket can have the same reassuring effect on a young child.

Stimulation of the senses

Babies can get the tactile stimulation they need from the blanket. You already know that babies find the tactlessness of blankets appealing. In addition to being comfortable, they are generally designed with a baby’s visual interests in mind. Additionally, a baby’s auditory reactions can be stimulated by the movement of blankets, which can generate quiet but intriguing sounds. Baby blankets, despite their seeming simplicity, really provide a surprising amount of stimulation for infants.

Improved sleep

It’s been shown that babies can sleep better with the support of their parents when they’re wrapped up in a blanket. Since getting enough sleep is crucial for a baby’s development and for the health and sanity of the parents, having blankets on hand at all times is a must when there’s a newborn in the house. Swaddling is an especially efficient method for achieving this goal. If used properly, a baby’s blanket can be just as effective as a dummy at soothing a fussy infant, and it eliminates the need to get up in the middle of the night to replace dummies in irritable newborns’ mouths.

Temperature regulation

Until they reach at least 18 months of age, infants need our assistance to maintain a healthy body temperature. Wool blankets in particular are perfect for this because you can adjust the temperature by adding or removing layers as needed and you don’t have to rummage through a ton of baby items.

Step-By-Step Guide On Binding Your Baby Blankets

Step #1. Prepare your materials

You’ll need 7 or 8 yards of a contrasting fabric in addition to the 1 and 1/4 yards of backing/binding cloth. Besides the mat, ruler, rotary cutter, and erasable ink pen, you’ll need a few other tools as well. Last but not least, a sewing machine is required.

Step #2. Fabric

The binding cloth should first be cut into 40″ × 40″ squares. Squares of 30 by 30 inches should be cut from your contrasting cloth next.

After that, you can check to see if the squares are truly square by folding them diagonally. You can reduce the size of the squares if you choose, but the binding fabric should be at least 10 inches wider than the contrasting fabric.

Step #3. Find the center

Position the right side of the contrasting fabric in the center of the cotton square.

Step #4. Pin

To begin, locate the middle of one of the long sides of the backing cloth and the contrast fabric. Next, pin the contrast fabric’s center and outer borders to the backing fabric’s outer edges.

You should unpin the corners of the contrasting fabric by an inch. There will be at least five inches of spare material on either side. Next, pin the other sides in the middle.

Step #5. Floppy

After pinning, the fabric corners should look like floppy triangles.

Step 6. Mark

Put dots 1/4″ in from the outside corners of each side. Get out a ruler.

Step #7. Sew

All seams should be 1/4 inch wide. The blanket can be turned right-side-out if a gap of 8 inches is left in one side.

While you’re working on one side of the seam, move the other one out of the way. To finish the seams, sew to within 1/4″. When you get to the marked spot, take the needle out of the blanket.

Take the fabric backing away from the side you’re currently sewing on. Proceed to the next side of the backing cloth and start stitching at the 1/4″ mark. The loosely folded corners on the outside would remain undone.

Step #8. Mitered corners

To create mitered corners, first separate the main and backing fabrics. Make a triangle by starting at one corner and pulling it out, then joining the rough edges.

Fold the central fabric in half diagonally and align the folded edges with the seams. Ideally, this would form a 45-degree angle next to the triangle’s flap.

First, using a ruler, draw a line connecting the two ends of the seam. Then, trace the outside of the binding’s folded edge.

Step #9. Trim

Start stitching at the end of the original seam, about 1/4 inch from where it met the folded binding fabric. Next, cut the extra flap so that it is 1/4″ away from the new seam. Get rid of the surplus.

Step #10. Flatten and press

Press the newly sewn seam open to make it flat. You should also press the other seams and check that they will stay flat after being turned right side out. To finish, press the remaining corners until they are flat.

Step #11. Right side out

When the blanket’s four corners are mitered, flip it right side out. Trim the edges and press the blanket into shape.

The outer or binding fabric should be tucked into the core fabric. To keep the edges from coming apart, use pins.

Step #12. Top stitch

Edges of the central fabric should be top-stitched. Do not leave any room for turning open.

The blanket’s exterior should also be top stitched. Apply the same method to the center of the fabric to keep it in place throughout washing.

What is a self-binding baby blanket?

Follow the instructions above to create a baby blanket with an integrated binding. In this article, we’ll explain the key distinctions between a blanket that self-binds and a normally bound blanket.

To begin, the backing cloth is used in the former. The purpose of this is to create a bound edge on the exterior of the quilt. A self-bound blanket also takes less time to finish.

The Best Baby Blankets That Offer Comfort and Coziness

Best Overall: Boritar Baby Blanket

Pros

• Increased sensory acuity can be attained through the use of dual textures.
• Really, really gentle
• To keep you warm without weighing you down

Cons

• Specifically, it requires a cold water wash.
• Because of this, stains and spots may be more obvious on lighter fabrics.

We recommend the Boritar Baby Blanket because it has two different textures, a wide variety of pattern selections, and is large enough to accommodate your child as they become older. This blanket is incredibly soft on both sides, with a flat texture on one and a bumpy texture on the other, and it comes in two different sizes with a wide variety of fun patterns. It’s perfect for all seasons because to the double layering that keeps you toasty but not weighed down.

The dimensions of the children’s size are 30 by 40 inches, making it the perfect size for playing on the ground during the first year of life but still small enough to be cuddled with during the toddler and preschool years. You may wash and dry it without worrying about damaging it, and it will retain its plush texture.

Sizes available: 30x40in or 50x60in | Polyester and Minky fur

Best Budget: Hudson Baby Unisex Baby and Toddler Hooded Animal Blanket

Pros

• This item can be washed in a washing machine and dried without any problems.
• A hooded design offers supplementary insulation.
• Supple material

Cons

• This is not the best size for preschoolers.
• Inadequate for use in frigid environments due to its low weight

This hooded blanket is not only really cute, but it also serves an important function: keeping your infant warm without overheating. Foxes, elephants, chickens, zebras, dogs, bears, and a plethora of other creatures are just some of the designs available for this blanket. It’s the right size for infants and toddlers, yet it can be used for years to come.

With a size of 28 x 40 inches, this is a large poster. Material: Polyester

Best for Winter: Pottery Barn Kids Sherpa Baby Blanket

Pros

• Extremely well-made and sturdy
• Extremely cozy
• Very comfortable on both sides

Cons

• Machine wash cold on delicate setting
• Take out of dryer immediately
• Some stains may be more visible on lighter fabrics.

Probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a cuddly blanket is this. The blanket has two sides, one of which is smooth and flat, while the other is made of a fluffy, comfy, and warm sherpa material. It’s machine-washable, comes in three colors, and may be customized.

Measures 30″ x 40″ and is made of a polyester blend. Sherpa

Best Breathable: NTBAY Jersey Cotton Quilted Baby Blanket

Pros

• Thin and cuddly fabric
• You can choose from a variety of colors and patterns.
• Guaranteed to be machine-washable and dryable

Cons

• Not a good choice for winter or chilly regions
• Loss of some form is possible with continued use.

The weight of this blanket is just right; it’s cozy without being cumbersome. Jersey cotton is light and breathable, and the microfiber stuffing keeps your baby from getting too hot. This blanket has reinforced stitching around the perimeter to ensure that it will not unravel no matter how many times you put it through the washing machine and dryer. There are over 15 different color and pattern combinations to choose from, and the fabric really improves with age.

Dimensions: 30 x 40 inches | Material: Cotton

Best Swaddle: aden + anais Classic 4-Pack Muslin Swaddles

Pros

• Specifications: 30 by 40 inches | 100% cotton
• It’s a good size to cuddle the baby in or use as a play mat.
• Swaddling is a breeze with this elastic, soft blanket.

Cons

• Inadequate as a lovey due to its flimsiness
• No single-hued choices are available.

You’ll get your money’s worth with this set, since it includes four cute swaddles in contrasting (but complementary) colors and patterns. Swaddling your baby will be a breeze with these cotton muslin swaddles because they are elastic, airy, and soft.

You may wash and dry these without worrying about them shrinking or falling apart, and they will only get softer over time. There are more than 30 color combinations available, so you may find one that works with the decor of your baby’s room.

Measures 47 by 47 inches and is made from 100 percent cotton.

Best Muslin: Pottery Barn Kids Flora Oversized Organic Muslin Baby Blanket

Pros

• Breathable, but not too flimsy, thanks to the double layers of the fabric.
• Pure organic cotton in every way
• Stitching that is reinforced in high-wear areas ensures longevity, particularly in the washing machine and dryer.

Cons

• Only wash in the gentle cycle.
• Take out of dryer immediately
• Lighter-colored fabrics may reveal dirt and stains more readily.

This blanket is beautiful, cozy, and lightweight since it is made of 100% organic cotton muslin, which is known for its extreme softness and gentleness. It’s double-sided for durability, with contrasting but complementary patterns and sturdy double-stitching along the border.

This blanket is somewhat larger than standard toddler blankets at 47 inches by 47 inches, making it ideal for play and snuggling. There are a few additional choices on the site under various categories, in addition to this design.

Dimensions: 47 x 47 inches | Material: 100% Organic Cotton Muslin

Best Organic: Burt’s Bees Baby Reversible Blanket

Pros

• Extremely comfortable and long-lasting fabric
• Choice of several different patterns is provided.
• Guaranteed to be machine-washable and dryable

Cons

• Swaddling may be more challenging because of its greater thickness.
• Some shrinkage in length and width is to be expected with cotton.
• Most of the available colors and patterns are pale, making imperfections such as stains readily apparent.

All of the organic cotton that went into manufacturing this blanket ensures that it is warm, breathable, and really comfortable to cuddle up with. It’s multipurpose, and can be used to swaddle a baby, provide comfort, or provide a cushioned surface for floor play. Both sides include unique designs, and it’s reinforced with stitching so it won’t fray. It will endure a long time because to the high quality fabric and the fact that it won’t pill.

30-by-40-inch dimensions | Material is all-natural, organic cotton

Best Splurge: Parachute Waffle Baby Blanket

Pros

• Comfortable to wear while yet allowing air circulation.
• Wonderfully comfortable and high-quality fabric
• Washable and dryable without the need for a delicate cycle.

Cons

• It could be too heavy for a young child to carry.
• Sensory-sensitive children may not enjoy the waffle’s shape and texture.

This oversized blanket is both warm and lightweight thanks to its waffle pattern and its exceptionally plush construction. Its waffle pattern facilitates rapid air circulation, keeping you warm and cozy while still keeping the elements at bay. This blanket is available in two neutral shades, and it can be easily washed and dried.

Measures 50 by 36 inches and is made from 100% Turkish cotton.

What to Look for in Baby Blankets

Materials

One baby’s favorite blanket material may not be ideal for another’s, depending on factors like climate or the baby’s sensitivity to touch. Some blankets even use a combination of fabrics to provide a unique feel. Consider the ease of cleaning while deciding between different materials. Be sure to give your well-loved blanket a good wash every so often.

Baby blankets are commonly made from the following materials:

• Muslin is perfect for swaddling blankets since it is thin, airy, and adaptable. Muslin can be washed and dried without losing its shape.
• Blankets filled with wool are exceptionally toasty and a fantastic choice for the winter or colder areas. Wool usually requires a different washing and drying routine than other fabrics.
• Cotton or organic cotton is a great choice for baby clothes since it is breathable, long-lasting, and gentle on the skin. Cotton is perfect for regular use because it can be washed and dried in a washing machine without causing any damage.
• Fleece is exceptionally cozy and snug, with a nubby texture that adds to its charm. During the winter or in colder areas, this fabric shines, but it’s not overly heavy during the summer; it’s simply not as breathable as other options. A stroller blanket made of fleece is the most comfortable option.
• Jersey knit is extremely breathable, light, and stretchy, and it has a silky, comfortable hand. Jersey knit (which you already know is comfy) is commonly used to make adult loungewear. It washes up easily and is comfortable to wear all year round.
• Bamboo is great for those with sensitive skin because it is hypoallergenic, comfortable, breathable, and stretchy. Due to its eco-friendliness, softness, and ease of care in the washing machine, bamboo fabric is quickly gaining in popularity.
• Minky is a type of fabric commonly used to make blankets because it is plush, soft, and comforting. Stuffed animals for children are commonly produced using this fabric. The only potential drawback is that this is not a particularly breathable fabric, so a baby or child who tends to overheat may not enjoy wearing it.

Durability

It is important for a child’s favorite baby blanket to be durable enough to endure the rigorous use it will receive throughout infancy. Over the years, a child’s blanket will be washed and dried numerous times due to various spills (spit up, accidents, mud, dust, milk, etc.).

Because of this, a baby blanket needs to be extremely resilient, withstanding repeated washings without excessive wear and tear. Check the blanket’s material and stitching to determine if it feels sturdy or like it would unravel after a year.

Comfort

The warmth of the blanket is secondary only to how cozy it is to cuddle up under. The material should be soft and retain its softness after many washings, it should keep a child warm without making them sweat excessively, and it should be large enough to cover a toddler or preschooler but not so large that it is cumbersome (remember, babies should not sleep with blankets until they are at least 1 year old).

This is the blanket they will wear night after night, in the car, when visiting relatives, and all over the house, so it had better be warm and comfortable.

FAQs

When can a baby sleep with a blanket?

It’s recommended that infants start sleeping with a blanket at the age of 18 months, however waiting longer is perfectly acceptable. Infants younger than 12 months should never have a blanket placed over their cribs due to the danger of SIDS (SIDS). Instead, use warm pajamas and/or a sleep sack to keep a baby toasty during the night. 1

Even at one year old, babies might suffocate if they get their blankets tangled up. Therefore, infants should not have a blanket in their crib until they are 18 months old.

How do you swaddle a baby in a blanket?

Put the infant on a level area and fold the swaddling blanket into a triangle. The infant should be laid on their back with their feet tucked into a corner of the blanket. Start in the upper left corner and wrap diagonally down and across. To wrap it around your right shoulder, pull the bottom corner up. Lastly, fold the upper right corner down and across.

Make sure your infant is swaddled so securely that he or she cannot free themselves (since loose blankets are a SIDS risk). When swaddled, a newborn should sleep on his or her back. At around 8 weeks of age, or when your baby begins to show signs of wanting to roll over, you can cease swaddling.

What are the best ways to use a baby blanket?

Baby blankets can be used for a variety of purposes. A small blanket can be used to swaddle a newborn for peaceful slumber. Blankets are multipurpose and can be used for tummy time, burping, and diaper changes.

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

A baby’s car seat should never have a blanket placed on top of it. Babies often fall asleep in the car, and when they do, they shouldn’t be covered up with blankets. 1 When transporting a baby in a car seat with a blanket over them, take extra precautions. The only exception is if someone who is not driving can easily reach and keep an eye on the infant.

Do not cover your infant with a blanket before placing them in a car seat. Dress them in one lightweight, insulating layer. Extra clothing or blankets placed over a child before they are buckled up can reduce the effectiveness of the car seat’s safety features in the event of a collision.

Conclusion

Having to learn how to bind a baby blanket on your own is difficult, but it is even more so when the blanket is for your infant. Although it may be difficult at first, you will be glad you did as your baby settles down and starts enjoying themselves on it.