The Best Receiving Blankets

A receiving blanket is one of the most important baby accessories you will own. In fact, your baby will be wrapped in a blanket within minutes of being born. A good blanket should be soft against your baby's sensitive skin and retain body heat to keep your baby's temperature stable. The blanket envelops your baby with warmth, comfort and security.

  1. Material

    • Although receiving blankets can be made of many different materials, cotton is widely favored for its soft feel and ability to wick away perspiration. Cotton is gentle against your baby's sensitive skin and launders well. Organic cotton is available if you are concerned about pesticides or toxic dyes.

    Thickness

    • A thin blanket is best, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, or AAP. A thick, plush blanket may overheat your baby and is one of the risks associated with SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). If you are concerned that one thin blanket isn't warm enough, layer with several snug articles of clothing and thin blankets, rather than one thick, heavy blanket.

    Size

    • If your blanket is too small, you will be unable to correctly swaddle your baby. Swaddling your baby involves folding the blanket over your baby's torso several times. Opt for large, thin blankets rather than small ones. Even if the blanket is too large in the beginning, your baby will grow into it soon enough.

    Price

    • Generally, the more perks a blanket has, the more expensive it will be. Some blankets have Velcro tabs to make swaddling easier. Other blankets come with attachments to hold a pacifier. There are many different options when shopping for receiving blankets, and no price is too high for making sure your baby is warm, comfortable and secure. However, remember that both you and your baby can be just as satisfied with a simple, soft cotton blanket.

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