Lulling Babies To Sleep In Baby Hammocks

In the past, baby hammocks are looked down as swinging hippy accessories. Today because of their versatility, they enjoy popularity with parents and nannies.

What are baby hammocks?

As the name implies, they are used as hammocks for babies. They are made from netlike fabrics that are attached to a long stable pole and hang from another post that can be either the ceiling or a hook in the wall. To ensure the safety and comfort of the baby, a thin mattress or cloth can be inserted into the hammock. Although termed as hammock it is not similar to the one used by adults because they are designed specifically for putting babies to sleep.

The design and construction of hammocks for babies are intended as a safe sleeping station from their birth until they are about two years old. Parents consider some factors in choosing hammocks for their babies. Primary of these are the materials used which must be heavy-duty and durable to withstand wear and tear. They must be washable and easy to dry as well. The hammocks must also have the strength to carry as much as 15kg (33lbs), the standard weight of a baby until they reach their 18th month. The optional mattress must be made from breathable materials, firm and comfortable as support and at the same time serve as cradle for the baby. Some hammocks can be purchased with a fitted mattress in them while some mattress can be bought separately.

Hammocks are supposed to be designed to support babies on their back because that is normally their sleeping position aside from being the safest. They must be safe enough to restrict the babies’ movements but at the same time provide some comfortable space. A good hammock design must prevent babies from rolling over their tummies or tilting to their sides that may cause them to fall on the floor and hurt themselves.

Benefits of using a baby hammock

• Babies have a better sleep because the hammock mimics the cradle feeling similar to a mother’s womb. That familiar feeling gives the baby a sense of comfort and security thus soothing him to a restful sleep.

• The hammock’s design of positioning the head of the baby in slight elevation promotes a natural cause to put him to sleep. This is advantageous for babies suffering from chronic reflux.

• The baby’s weight is evenly distributed when placed in a hammock, which cause less stress in the baby’s joints and muscles.

• With a gently swing, babies are hushed back to sleep. It is also easy to know if the baby is awake when the hammock begins to wiggle. In addition, because of his continuous movement, the hammock swings that can make him settle back to sleep.

• Hammocks for babies, though made of tough materials are portable. They can be easily carried and installed in stable posts, thus ensuring the baby gets the feeling of his familiar sleeping post. Hammocks are lightweight and occupy less space.

Even though there are many benefits in using a hammock for your baby, there are also downsides to it. One of this is the possibility that as your baby grows older and bigger; he may start to stand and try to escape in what he starts to perceive to be his cage. The hammock therefore must be designed in such a way that it is entirely difficult for babies to crawl out. As you enjoy its advantages, some good-intent friends may be against your using it. They may criticize you for using one and question your decision. Just trust yourself. You and your infant love baby hammocks.