The Importance of The Ollie’s Elastic Band

If you’ve checked out the Ollie Swaddle, you’ve probably noticed the elastic band located at the bottom. This band is a HUGE important component of the swaddling process. We promise, it isn’t just there for fun! So, what is this elastic band all about and why is it important? First, we’ll share the importance of the elastic band compared to the design of other swaddles, and then we’ll talk sleep safety.

Have you ever heard of hip dysplasia?

Since your baby’s hip sockets are made of soft, pliable cartilage, it is very easy for her hips to dislocate or become misaligned. As she grows, the sockets will harden until they are completely bone as an adult.

Some swaddles can constrict hip movement, in turn affecting hip development and putting infants at risk of developing hip dysplasia. To avoid this, swaddles should allow your little one free range of motion at the hips and legs. This allows for natural development of the hip joints.

This is why we designed the Ollie Swaddle with a stretchy material and the elastic band to secure the bottom. The stretch of the fabric allows your little one to move without much constriction while still maintaining the swaddle on her torso where the Ollie is secured with Velcro.

The elastic band allows the swaddle to be closed at the bottom around her feet while still allowing 100% free range of motion. This also helps the Ollie to grow with your little one.

Do you know the safe sleep guidelines?

Safe sleep guidelines for infants were created by the American Academy of Pediatrics to help parents take precautions and reduce the risk of SIDS for babies. The guidelines include:

• Always place your baby on his or her back during sleep
• Always use a firm sleep surface like a crib or pack-and-play. Car seats and other sitting devices should be avoided for sleep
• Baby should sleep in the same room as the parents, but not in the same bed
• Keep soft objects or loose bedding out of the crib. This includes pillows, blankets, toys, and bumper pads
• Avoid overheating

When we designed the Ollie, we did so with the recommended safe sleep guidelines in mind. Since loose blankets, pillows, and toys are not allowed in baby’s crib, ensuring that the Ollie is secure is crucial. If the elastic band is not secured, the extra fabric could be considered a loose blanket, increasing the risk that the blanket slips up and covers your little one’s face.

As a bonus, the elastic band at the bottom of the Ollie Swaddle also allows for super easy diaper changes! You don’t have to unswaddle your little ones in the middle of the night and worry about disrupting their comfort…or about having little hands waving around! As always, we are here to be of support to you. Please contact us anytime Care@theollieworld.com