How Many Receiving Blankets Do You Need?
As an expecting parent, one of the many questions “How many receiving blankets do you need?” As a first-time parent, I had no idea what the answer was and even searched long and hard for it. After much research, I finally figured out how many receiving blankets were necessary for my baby’s arrival. In this article, I’ll discuss how to determine the appropriate amount of receiving blankets you will need for your newborn.
How Many Receiving Blankets Do You Need? The answer will vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. But generally, it’s recommended that you have at least 4-6 receiving blankets on hand. This allows you to rotate them throughout the day and ensures that you always have a clean one available when needed. If you plan on doing laundry frequently or have access to a washing machine in your home, you may be able to get away with fewer blankets.
How Many Receiving Blankets Do You Need For Twins?
One essential item on any baby registry is receiving blankets. These versatile pieces can serve as swaddles, burp cloths, nursing covers, and more. But how many receiving blankets do you need when you’re expecting two babies instead of one?
The answer depends on your family’s specific needs and preferences. As a general rule, most parents find that they need at least 12-14 receiving blankets per baby in order to have enough for daily use while still allowing time for laundry. With twins, this means you’ll want to have a minimum of 24-28 blankets on hand at all times.
Of course, some families may feel more comfortable with a larger quantity of receiving blankets or prefer certain materials or designs over others.
How Many Receiving Blankets Do You Need For The Hospital?
Receiving blankets is a hospital staple for newborn babies. They are soft, and cozy and serve multiple purposes. The truth is that you really do not need to bring any with you.
Most hospitals provide receiving blankets for newborns, which are specially designed to meet all their needs. These blankets are made from high-quality materials that are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin and come in a variety of colors and patterns. From swaddling your little one to covering them during breastfeeding sessions, these versatile blankets can be used for multiple purposes.
Carrying too many receiving blankets can weigh down your hospital bag unnecessarily. Instead of focusing on this non-essential item, you should prioritize other things such as comfortable clothes for yourself or essential toiletries.
What Is A Receiving Blanket?
A receiving blanket is a type of baby blanket that is used to swaddle infants. It is typically made from soft and lightweight fabrics such as cotton or flannel, making it comfortable for the baby’s delicate skin. Receiving blankets come in different sizes but are usually around 30 x 30 inches square.
Aside from its swaddling function, receiving blankets have various uses. They can be used as burp cloths, nursing covers, changing pads, or even as makeshift play mats for tummy time. Receiving blankets also make great gifts for new parents because of their versatility and practicality.
When choosing a receiving blanket, it’s important to consider the material and size. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or muslin to prevent overheating and ensure comfort for your baby.
Why Is It Called A Receiving Blanket?
The term “receiving” in the name refers to the first time a newborn is handed over to their parents by hospital staff. In the early 1900s, hospitals would use rough and scratchy blankets on newborns during their first moments with their parents. This caused discomfort and irritation for both the baby and parents alike. Therefore, mothers started bringing their own soft blankets from home to wrap their babies in during this special moment – hence the term “receiving blanket.”
What Size Should A Receiving Blanket Be?
The most common size for a receiving blanket is 36×36 square. This size provides enough space to wrap your baby snugly while still allowing room for movement. It is also large enough to use as a makeshift changing mat or nursing cover when needed. A 36×36 square receiving blanket is perfect for newborns and can be used until they are about four months old.
If you prefer something smaller or larger than 36×36 inches, there are other options available in terms of sizes and shapes.
Preparing for a baby involves many decisions, including determining the right number of receiving blankets. If you’re expecting twins, you may also wonder about high chairs. Learn more in our article ‘Do I Need Two High Chairs for Twins?‘.
What Is The Best Fabric For A Receiving Blanket?
One of the most popular fabrics for receiving blankets is cotton. Cotton is soft, breathable, and easy to care for. It also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can easily find one that matches your style or nursery decor. Another great option is flannel – this cozy fabric provides extra warmth and softness while still allowing airflow.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, bamboo is an excellent choice. Bamboo fabric is naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial while still being incredibly soft and lightweight.
Can A Receiving Blanket Be Used As A Swaddle?
Many new parents are often confused about the difference between a receiving blanket and a swaddle. While both of these items are used to keep babies warm and cozy, there are some key differences between them. A receiving blanket is typically used to wrap a baby up after they have been born, whereas a swaddle is designed to hold the baby’s arms and legs snugly against its body.
If you’re wondering whether or not you can use a receiving blanket as a swaddle, the answer is yes! In fact, many new parents choose to use receiving blankets instead of purchasing specific swaddle blankets. However, it’s important to note that not all receiving blankets are created equal when it comes to swaddling.
To effectively use a receiving blanket as a swaddle, make sure that it is large enough to fully wrap around your baby with enough room for tucking.
11 Uses For Baby Receiving Blankets
Baby-receiving blankets are a must-have item for new parents. These soft and cozy blankets are typically used to swaddle newborns and keep them comfortable, but they have many other uses beyond that. Here are 11 clever ways to use baby-receiving blankets:
Use #1: Burp Cloths
One of the most practical uses for baby-receiving blankets is as a burp cloth. Simply drape the blanket over your shoulder and place your baby’s head on top while you give them a burp after feeding. The soft fabric will absorb any spit-up or drool and protect your clothing from stains.
Use #2: A Mat To Lay Baby On
Whether you’re at home or out and about, having a clean surface to lay your baby on is important for their comfort and hygiene. A receiving blanket can be used as a makeshift mat when there’s no changing table around. Lay the blanket flat on the floor or any clean surface like a bathroom counter or car seat, giving your baby room to wiggle around while protecting them from germs.
Use #3: Drape Over The Stroller
This provides protection from the sun and wind, keeping your baby comfortable while you stroll around town. Not only does a receiving blanket protect your baby from the elements, but it also acts as a barrier against germs and bugs. You can use it to create a cozy cocoon around your little ones while they nap or play in their stroller. Plus, if you need to breastfeed in public, you can use it as a discreet cover-up without having to carry an extra nursing cover.
Use #4: Nursing Cover
When it’s time to breastfeed your baby, simply drape the blanket over your shoulder and across your chest to provide coverage and privacy while you nurse.
It’s an affordable option compared to purchasing special nursing covers. The soft material of the receiving blanket provides comfort for both you and your baby during feeding time. Since these blankets come in a variety of colors and patterns, they can add some style to your breastfeeding routine.
Use #5: Car Seat Cover
A car seat cover is a must-have accessory for parents who want to keep their babies safe and comfortable while traveling. Simply drape the blanket over the top of the car seat to provide shade and protection from wind, rain, or snow. The soft material will also keep your little one warm during colder months without compromising safety. Since most baby-receiving blankets come in cute designs and patterns, they’ll add some style to your ride!
Use #6: Changing Pad Cover Or Makeshift Changing Pad
. When you’re on the go with your baby, it’s not always easy to find a clean and safe place to change their diaper. This is where using a receiving blanket as a changing pad can come in handy.
To use a receiving blanket as a changing pad cover, simply fold it into quarters and spread it out over the surface of your changing table or mat. The soft fabric will provide comfort for your baby while also absorbing any messes that occur during diaper changes. Alternatively, if you find yourself without access to a designated changing area, you can lay the blanket on any flat surface like the backseat of your car or even on top of grass at the park.
Use #7: At Doctor’s Appointments
When you take your little one to the pediatrician, you want them to feel as comfortable and calm as possible, and having their favorite blanket can help with that.
The soft texture of a receiving blanket provides a familiar sensation for babies during uncomfortable procedures like shots or check-ups. It can also be used to create a makeshift barrier between your baby and any germs or bacteria on the exam table or waiting room chairs. Simply place the blanket down before setting your baby on it, and then take it home to wash afterward.
Using a receiving blanket at doctor’s appointments can add an extra layer of privacy while breastfeeding or doing skin-to-skin bonding with your baby.
Use #8: Cloth Diaper Flats
One unexpected way to use receiving blankets is as cloth diaper flats. These soft, absorbent blankets can make excellent cloth diapers for your little one.
Using receiving blankets as cloth diaper flats is a smart option for environmentally conscious parents who want to reduce their waste and save money on disposable diapers. Simply fold the blanket into a square or rectangular shape, place it inside a waterproof cover, and secure it with snaps or pins. Not only does this method prevent waste from disposable diapers, but it also reduces exposure to harsh chemicals found in some disposable diaper brands.
Cloth diaper flats are a versatile and cost-effective option for many families. If you’re considering cloth diapering for twins, check out our comprehensive guide on ‘Cloth Diapering Twins‘ for tips and advice.
Use #9: Swaddling
Swaddling is a time-honored tradition that helps newborns feel safe and secure as they adjust to life outside of the womb. By wrapping your baby snugly in a receiving blanket, you can mimic the feeling of being in the womb, which can help soothe even the fussiest infants.
Use #10: Playing Games
One of the most fun ways to use receiving blankets is for playing games with your baby.
You can use a receiving blanket to play peek-a-boo with your baby, which helps develop their cognitive abilities and social skills. You can also use the blanket as a prop for singing songs like “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” or “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” This will not only entertain your baby but also help with language development.
Another great game you can play with a receiving blanket is called “Find the Toy.” Simply hide small toys or objects under the blanket and encourage your baby to find them. This will help develop their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving abilities.
Use #11: Cloth Wipes
Rather than using disposable wipes, which can be harsh on a baby’s delicate skin and bad for the environment, parents can use soft receiving blankets to clean up their little ones.
Using baby receiving blankets as cloth wipes is incredibly easy. Simply cut the blanket into 8×8 inch squares or fold them into smaller rectangles that fit your needs. Wet them with warm water or a homemade wipe solution made from natural ingredients like coconut oil or witch hazel. Then use them to clean up diaper messes or other spills throughout the day. They’re gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive skin and can easily be washed with your regular laundry.
How Long Do You Use Receiving Blankets?
Receiving blankets are essential items in any baby registry, and they provide warmth and comfort to your little one. But like most things in parenthood, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the duration of usage.
On average, parents use receiving blankets for around six months. During this time, babies grow quickly and start to outgrow their swaddling needs. As they become more active and mobile, they may also prefer sleeping without a blanket or transitioning to thicker bedding materials like sleep sacks or duvets.
However, some parents continue using receiving blankets beyond six months, especially during colder seasons or for outdoor activities like picnics or camping trips. It’s important to note that as your baby grows older and stronger, their risk of suffocation from loose bedding increases.
Bottom Line
While the number of receiving blankets you need will ultimately depend on your individual needs, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have more rather than less. With a few basic guidelines, you can easily prepare for all the cuddles that come with welcoming a new baby into your life. Make sure to stock up on all the essentials so you can focus on bonding with your little one.
