Size of baby blanket for newborns for discharge and in crib

Discharge from the hospital is an important and exciting event for both the newborn and the entire family.

Young parents will definitely want to capture this celebration on video or in photos, which means that both mother and child should be dressed not only comfortably, but also beautifully.

An elegant blanket for newborns is a good choice for those parents who plan to use it not only at discharge, but also during the first months, or even years, of the baby’s life.

Why do you need to buy a blanket?

Regardless of the time of year when a baby is born, his body is very vulnerable in the first days and weeks. Newborns easily catch any infection.

Therefore, it is necessary to limit the baby’s possible contact with pathogens, and at the same time protect him from adverse weather conditions.

Even if discharge from the maternity hospital occurs in the summer, it is better to wrap the child in a blanket or blanket.

Well, in the cold season, during discharge, you cannot do without a warm quilted or woolen blanket, envelope or overalls.

Many young parents buy envelopes for discharge, richly decorated with embroidery, lace, frills and ribbons. Of course, there is nothing reprehensible in this, since such envelopes look very impressive. But at the same time, mothers and fathers who prefer such an impractical thing forget that such an envelope for discharge from the maternity hospital is a disposable thing.

It is doubtful that it, like my mother’s fluffy, floor-length wedding dress, could have been used even one more time later. Discharge overalls are also not a very practical option. Kids grow out of them quickly, so you can hardly wear them more than a few times.

Child in a fancy blanket

But an elegant blanket for discharge is a completely different matter. It is comfortable and practical and, if not decorated with multi-layered frills of ribbons or lace, then it can be used as a regular blanket as long as the child can cover himself with it.

You can put it in a crib, in a stroller, or wrap your baby in it before going for a walk or visiting a doctor. An older child is placed on a blanket spread in the playpen or on the floor. In addition, perhaps it will later serve the younger brother or sister of your first-born.

If you are making your own discharge blanket, do not sew on trims such as frills, bows, or layered lace. It is better to make these decorative details removable: use the blanket with them on discharge, and later remove them and keep them as a keepsake, and use the blanket itself as usual.

Of course, given that such a blanket will be a reusable item, you need to pay special attention to its convenience, without forgetting the beauty of the product.

The main criteria when choosing should be quality, safety and hygiene.

And also the size, which also matters when buying a blanket.

Boy's blanket blanket

The size of the blanket should be such that the baby can be completely wrapped in it.

At the same time, there should still be some space left for freedom of his movements. But it is hardly wise to take an overly large blanket, hoping that it can then be used almost until school age.

As for the materials from which it is made, preference should be given to natural fabrics that do not cause skin irritation and do not lead to allergies.

Self-production

To make a blanket you will need:

1. Two types of fabric.
2. One fabric is needed for the outside, the other for the inside.
3. Rubber.
4. Ribbon for decorating the front side of the product.
5. Lace for decorating a blanket.
6. Fixing needles or pins.
7. Tape measure.
8. Scissors.
9. Sewing machine.

Regardless of whether you buy the blanket or make it yourself, you need to choose the right fabric for it. The inner side of the product is made of cotton fabric. It is she who will be adjacent to the child’s body. If the fabric on the inside and outside should be of the same quality, then you should opt for satin, cotton or poplin.

With lush finish

To make the product you will need:

1. One or two types of fabric.
2. Organza.
3. Lace.
4. Sintepon for filler.
5. The length of the lace should be at least 1.5 m, and for a narrow lace decoration, a length of 80 cm is suitable.

Manufacturing:

1. You need to cut two squares of the same length. The same square is cut from padding polyester. The length of one side of the square must be made with an overlap of 1.5 cm for each side.
2. The organza is sewn into the seam of the blanket, so you need to sew on the lace first.
3. To do this, take one of the cut out square parts and place it face up on the table.
4. At the corner where the lace is located, you need to place the organza along the fabric so that the cut of the lace trim lies on the fabric. First, the workpiece must be stitched manually. On the other side of the square, using the same principle, you need to sew narrow lace.
5. The trim fabric cut on the side should not stick out, so it must be wrapped and sewn to the seam. Then two parts are folded together in sequence: a padding polyester part, two parts of fabric.
6. The parts are fastened together with pins so that the product does not become distorted during sewing.
7. The blanket needs to be sewn along the edge, retreating 1 cm. It is necessary to leave a small window with a diameter of 25 cm not expired. The product is turned inside out through this pocket and sewn with a blind seam by hand. Then the blanket is stretched lengthwise and crosswise with a large seam.

The stitch should be in the shape of a large and small square. If desired, the product is decorated with voluminous flowers made from the same fabric.

With terry center

To complete the product you will need:

1. Two types of fabric.
2. Ribbons for decoration.

When is the purchase planned?

When choosing a blanket, the time of year matters a lot. If the baby is to be born in winter, then the blanket should be larger so that the baby can be completely wrapped in it, and at the same time there should be no air flow anywhere.

If the birth of a child occurs during the warm season, then, of course, a quilted blanket will not be needed for discharge, and its size may be more modest, since there is no need to wrap the baby in it like a cocoon. It may not even be a blanket, but rather a fleece or even a soft cotton blanket knitted.

Lightweight patchwork quilt

In spring and autumn, the weather can change dramatically even within one day, or even several hours. Therefore, when choosing a blanket for discharge, you need to take this into account.

In spring or autumn, give preference to blanket models with a removable backing, and it is better if it is a transformable blanket fastened with a zipper: it will protect your newborn baby from both the cold wind and the rain falling from a cloudy autumn or spring sky.

The size of the blanket for the off-season is desirable: it should be larger than the summer version, but smaller than the winter one.

Speaking about the time of purchase, I would also like to talk about when, in fact, to buy a blanket for discharge: before or after childbirth? Of course, in the latter case, the responsibilities for choosing this important item fall to the dad or other adult family members, with the exception of the mother of the newborn, who at this time is lying with the baby in the maternity hospital.

In general, there is no fundamental difference in when the blanket was purchased: on the same day when the pregnancy test showed the coveted two lines or an hour before discharge from the hospital. But these, of course, are two extremes that should be avoided, since in both cases errors in selection are possible.

Discharge kit

In the first one, it is easy to make a mistake about the gender of the child and take a blanket of the wrong color. This is a small thing, of course, but it can ruin the mood during discharge, and it won’t be very pleasant for the baby’s parents to explain to everyone they know why the boy was discharged from the maternity hospital in a pink blanket, and the girl in a blue one. This problem, of course, can be solved by simply taking a blanket of a neutral color, but it is still advisable not to buy such expensive and large things until the gender of the baby is known for sure.

But, as already mentioned, another extreme is also possible: when, for fear of making a mistake with the gender of the unborn child and, accordingly, with the color of the discharge kit, relatives delay the purchase of a blanket until the birth of the baby, and then in a hurry they buy something completely different from what they should have would. And then the color seems to be right, but such important characteristics as the quality of the thing, the materials from which it is made, and its size leave much to be desired.

Envelope-blanket for discharge “Creme Brulee”

What recommendations can you give regarding choosing the size of a blanket for a newborn?

• It is not necessary and even unnecessary to buy a blanket for discharge immediately as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. But even then, the expectant mother needs to start looking closely at the commercially available models and, most importantly, study information regarding their safety and quality. Take a closer look at blankets from different manufacturers, read reviews about their products, and only then decide what you will buy.
• When choosing a blanket for a newborn, give preference not only to beautiful, but also to safe models. And don’t forget about practicality: a blanket should not become a “one-time thing.”
• The size of the blanket should be suitable for the crib or stroller, it should not be too small or too large. Well, as mentioned above, it is unacceptable to buy a blanket for growth, with the expectation that it will still serve you and your child until school.
• Currently, there are models of blankets with buttons or Velcro. They are convenient because their size is easily adjustable.
• A winter blanket should always be larger in size than a summer blanket. And even more than the one designed for the off-season.
• When choosing the size of the blanket, decide what you will need it for after discharge. Will you wrap your baby in it, or maybe just put crumbs in a stroller or crib? By the way, if you need a blanket for a small crib or stroller, then it is better to choose small-sized models.

Features of Transformers

Transformable blankets for discharge are popular today. They are wear-resistant, functional and comfortable. A transformer is an excellent option for outerwear for a newborn. It is used as a standard envelope until the child is one year old. After discharge, the blanket easily becomes a jumpsuit.

All transforming models have a detachable lining. You can use them not only in cold weather, but also in cool weather.

The scheme for using this model of blankets for newborns for discharge is simple: zippers are located on both sides. There are cuffs on the sleeves and legs that protect against moisture and wind. Valves are often provided to regulate the fit of the collar and provide protection for the baby's chin.

Transformable blankets are designed for several seasons of use, which is beneficial for parents.

Optimal blanket size for a newborn

But still, what size blanket for newborns is considered ideal? In fact, a lot here depends on the time of year at which birth and discharge occur, on weather conditions and on the personal preferences of the parents. Of course, larger blankets are more practical as they can be used longer. But small blankets in the summer contribute to better thermoregulation and prevent the baby from overheating during his first “outing into the world.”

And so a blanket for a newborn can be one of the following sizes (in cm):

• 90x90
• 100x80
• 120x80
• 135x110
• 140x110
• 150x100
• 160x100.

Based on practicality considerations, for the cold season the optimal size of a blanket for a newborn is 140x110. For summer, it is better to choose a smaller model; here the best size can be considered 100x80.

Choosing a blanket in which the baby will be wrapped during discharge from the hospital is exactly the case when size matters. It should be neither too big nor too small. And it is better to focus on the size of a crib or stroller when choosing a blanket. Then this purchase will turn out to be not a “one-time” item, but a practical accessory that will probably last for more than one season.

Tips for selection and application

To choose the right blanket for your baby, you should listen to several basic recommendations.

It is better to go to a specialized store to purchase. There is no need to save on goods for your baby - his health, comfort and peace of mind depend on them.

The product you like requires careful inspection. The material and seams should be soft.

We must not forget about the individuality of a newborn. For active children, discharge envelopes or blankets are selected with many fasteners. This will make it much easier to get ready to go outside in the future. An energetic baby feels comfortable in an envelope with restrictive gathers to prevent twisting. For greater freedom in the legs, products with an extended lower part are chosen.

If the blanket can be used as a lining in the crib after discharge, it is hygroscopic and retains heat well. Models stuffed with down, wool or cotton wool are not suitable for children with allergies.

Sometimes manufacturers write “100% wool” or “100% bamboo” on the label. There may be a note at the bottom stating that the material is artificial. To avoid becoming a victim of deception, you need to carefully study the inscriptions, and also refuse blankets that are too cheap.

Before purchasing, you should check the strength of the envelope cover for discharge: carefully wrinkle it, beat the product. See if the insulation is coming out of it. This indicates low quality and insufficient wear resistance of the item.

It is better to prefer products that are not too aggressive in color. Calm, unobtrusive colors are suitable. Not only the aesthetic approach is important here: fabric dyed with bright dyes can negatively affect children's skin.

When using a blanket, do not overwrap the baby. Overheating at this age is a more frightening factor for him than hypothermia.

How to make a bow

The most common way to decorate a blanket for a newborn is with a bow. In this case, you can use a ready-made bow (flower), or make it yourself.

For the bow, take a wide strip of fabric, measure the middle and bend the edges to it.

So, a DIY bow:

1. Cut two strips of 12 cm wide from satin fabric.
2. We fold the two parts right sides to each other and stitch along the edges. Then turn it face out.
3. For the bow itself, take a wide strip of fabric, measure the middle and bend the edges to the middle.
4. We sew from the top and bottom, and then turn it inside out and fill it with holofiber.
5. To make the “belt” functional, insert an elastic band into the resulting ribbon and sew on a voluminous bow with holofiber. The “bridge” for the bow can be made from any ribbon or braid. The lace trim looks very impressive.

For decoration, you can sew a large bow or a flower made of ribbons on top. The decor made from lace sewn onto the top side of the lettering square looks beautiful.

Envelope shape

There are several types of envelope shapes available.

The most popular and in demand:

• A blanket that turns into an envelope is a standard option. The child's head is located in an open place. For an elegant covering, satin is chosen, but cotton is more practical, since the structure is non-slip. Envelope - a blanket that is conservatively priced and serves as a blanket for a child.
• Bag - resembles the previous design, but there is a zipper sewn into the side and bottom, and the head is located in the hood. A bag is more practical than a blanket, since it eliminates the possibility of cold air getting in. The model is made using different materials.
• Transformer - visually looks like an ordinary jumpsuit. For the first 3 months it is a bag, then it turns into a full-fledged outfit with arms and pants. There are buttons at the bottom and a zipper between the legs, creating a model with arms and pants. Transformer is suitable from November to March. The model is characterized by usefulness and comfort, because the child will be able to wear it for more than 1 season.

Organization of discharge from the maternity hospital

How long the mother and baby will stay in the hospital depends on their well-being and how they both survived the birth. The most favorable outcome is if they are home on the third day.

Mother's discharge criteria

The young mother is discharged from the maternity hospital, based on her condition. She must be monitored by a gynecologist and obstetrician. The doctor examines the mammary glands to see if there are any lumps or other pathologies. The medical staff tells the woman how to place the baby at the breast and how to pump if necessary. The doctor also checks how the uterus contracts and whether it has decreased in size. An ultrasound will allow you to rule out inflammation and find out whether the placenta has been completely removed.

On the third day, the woman is discharged if no complications are found and the birth goes smoothly. If, after the birth of the child, the mother had stitches, then she leaves the hospital no earlier than 5-6 days. She will go home in at least a week if she started bleeding or had to manually separate the placenta. After a caesarean section, the woman will be released after approximately 7-9 days. This time is usually enough for it to partially recover and the stitches to begin to heal.

Criteria for discharging a child

When new mothers are ready to leave the hospital, the discharge of newborns may be delayed if the doctor believes that they still need to be monitored.

Note! Children who were born quickly or those who experienced complications during childbirth are usually delayed in the hospital. For example, the baby was without water for a long time, or he lacked oxygen

While the baby is in the maternity hospital, doctors evaluate the condition of his skin, monitor bowel movements, motor activity, reflexes, and muscle tone. On the 2-3rd day of life, if the baby is healthy, his hearing is checked by conducting an audiological screening. If the mother signs consent for vaccinations, he is vaccinated against tuberculosis and hepatitis.

Vaccination in the maternity hospital

Even in the delivery room, blood is taken from the mother and child, observing whether there is an inflammatory process, and assessing all the indicators together. Later they check whether the baby has any dangerous pathologies, which are easier to combat with early diagnosis.

Even in the maternity hospital, it is important to exclude:

• diseases of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands;
• cystic fibrosis;
• phenylketonuria;
• galactosemia.

To do this, blood is taken from the newborn's heel.

When all the procedures are completed, the child feels well, the doctor is satisfied with his development, and the tests are normal, the baby is ready for discharge. This usually happens on days 3-5.

If the baby was born ahead of schedule and weighs less than 2 kilograms, he will not be discharged until he recovers. In addition to the fact that its mass should increase, other factors must be taken into account:

• Will the baby be able to generate and retain heat on his own, will he not freeze at home in his crib, will he cope without an incubator;
• Is the baby able to suckle at the breast?
• Do you experience daily weight gain?

Naturally, the baby’s condition is also assessed based on medical indicators. They can’t discharge him without his mother. Therefore, if a woman has health problems, the baby remains to wait for her recovery. The reverse process is possible. A woman can leave the maternity hospital, leaving the baby under the supervision of specialists.

Required documents

To be discharged from the maternity hospital, the mother must have with her the following documents:

• Exchange card;
• Certificate of birth of a child. It is needed in order to subsequently obtain a birth certificate for the baby from the registry office;
• Birth certificate;
• Sick leave. It is not always prescribed, but only in case of complications. For example, if a woman received anesthesia. Then her maternity leave will last for the period indicated in the letter.

Note! The exchange card and birth certificate must be in the hands of the expectant mother when she arrives with her things at the maternity hospital. In addition, she must take a passport and an insurance policy

Model options

The most important aspect of the functionality of blankets for babies is the possibility of transformation. Usually for the little ones they choose envelopes that can be unzipped. Such products are suitable for discharge and for use in strollers in winter. Ordinary bedspreads are extremely practical only at home or for walks without the ability to wrap up babies, so they should be dressed in the most comfortable clothes.

The choice depends on when your baby was born, so adequately assess the temperature outside and the next time you will be walking.