Introduction
One of the important decisions parents make for their babies is where they sleep and how comfortable it will be for them. However, you must do the necessary research to give your baby a safe and sound sleep pattern. One of the numerous options is a hammock. Like other options like cribs, bassinets, and many others, a hammock is also a sleep option for babies.
Is there a hammock for babies? What do they look like? Are there various types of baby hammocks? Are baby hammocks safe for babies to sleep in? What are the disadvantages and advantages of putting my baby in a hammock?
All these and many other doubts will be cleared as you read further. Let us go deep into the real deal.
Are there baby hammocks?
Just as the name implies, baby hammocks are hammocks for babies. Baby hammocks are not small as adult hammocks as many had thought. They are hammocks specifically designed for babies to sleep in. Baby hammocks are made from natural fibers. The hammock is attached to a crib, fastened to a pole, and hangs from the ceiling or any sturdy stand. A cotton-filled mattress is placed in the hammock to ensure comfortable sleep for the baby.
Advantages of putting your baby to sleep in a hammock
● Baby hammocks allow your babies to sleep in a womb-like manner. How baby hammocks are designed gives room for this, giving a baby a sense of security.
● The swinging motion of the hammock also creates a soothing environment for the baby to sleep better.
● A baby hammock ensures even distribution of your baby’s weight. This helps to minimize the stress on the baby’s muscles and joints.
● A baby hammock allows babies to sleep on their back, which is the best and safest sleeping position for babies.
● Baby hammocks are featherweight and do not take much space. They are portable.
● A properly designed baby hammock naturally allows babies to sleep with their heads slightly raised. This sleeping position is helpful for babies with chronic reflux.
● A properly designed baby hammock helps keep the head’s shape round. It prevents the back of the head from being flat, often with a baby constantly lying in a cot.
● With a baby hammock, babies can create a swinging motion by themselves. So, this hammock allows babies to sleep for a longer period. With
Possible disadvantages of putting your baby to sleep in a hammock
Hammocks appear to have few downsides for babies. However, there are tips you can follow to avoid these downsides. If you would be purchasing a baby hammock, you can keep the following in mind:
● Putting your baby to sleep in a hammock can lead to shaking syndrome. This can be as a result of the usual oscillatory motion of a baby hammock. However, you can swing your baby’s hammock slowly and gently to prevent this. Also, do not swing your baby’s hammock for too long.
● When you lay your baby in a hammock, if care is not taken, your baby may fall off. You can put a horizontal hammock barrier in your baby’s hammock to prevent this.
Should babies sleep in a hammock?
If hammocks are correctly built and designed, you can consider them a sleeping option for your baby. However, there are risks associated with allowing a baby to sleep in a hammock. However, the risks can be prevented.
If you would be buying a hammock for your baby, ensure that you consider the following when putting your baby in a hammock.
• Advisably, let your baby be up to at least three months old before sleeping on a hammock.
● Place a horizontal barrier in the hammock to prevent the baby from falling while sleeping.
● Do not oscillate the hammock for too long and too fast to prevent it from the baby’s nervous system.
● Pick a soft, removable, and easy-to-wash hammock fabric and ensure frequent washing.
● Ensure you hang the hammock in a firm and sturdy place.
Also, be careful of poorly constructed hammocks. They could expose your baby to risks. Consider the following safety measures when buying a hammock for your baby.
Strength of the hammock
Consider the hammock’s strength and ensure that it is properly tested before you purchase it.
The material the hammock is made of
To ensure a safe environment for your baby, ensure you buy a hammock made from natural fibres. Do not buy hammocks made from netting or string.
How the hammock is designed
The best sleeping position for babies is on their backs. An adequately designed baby hammock allows a baby to sleep on his/her back and not roll over on the stomach.
The type of clip used in hanging the hammock
All the clips and the hanging technique of the hammock must be adequately tested to ensure they are sturdy enough.
Final thoughts
A baby can sleep in a hammock. When opting for baby hammocks for your babies, follow the guides noted above. This will help you make the best hammock choice for your babies.
