Some babies love to be wrapped securely. Swaddling them in a light cotton or muslin wrap can help some babies settle, but it is important that swaddling be done correctly to make it a safe practice. If you choose to swaddle your baby what is paramount is that the baby is sleeping face-up (on the back) and with a clear face that will stay clear throughout the sleep. Make sure you take a look at the Safe Swaddling guidelines for sleeping babies developed by Change for our Children if swaddling is something you choose to do. The Change for Children website also includes a demonstration on how to swaddle safely.
Tuck him into bed firmly. Newborns like to feel secure and the less they wiggle around the sooner they will be able to settle. If you choose to swaddle your baby, put him down wrapped and then also place a sheet tightly over the top of him tucked into each side of the mattress. Make sure there is plenty of room between the top of the sheet and your baby’s face so you don’t restrict air flow.