In this blog post, our midwife Charlotte tells you everything about slings for midwives – from their importance in everyday midwifery to important tips when buying one.
What is a cradle cloth?
A cradle cloth is a soft, often lightweight cloth that is specially designed for weighing newborns.
What is it used for?
Midwives use the cradle cloth together with a hanging scale, especially in postnatal care after birth, to control the baby's weight.
Is it normal for newborns to lose weight in the first few days after birth?
Yes, it is completely normal for newborns to lose weight in the first few days after birth. This is due in part to the excretion of meconium and urine and in part to the adjustment of the body's own body. The maximum weight loss is usually reached on the fifth day after birth and should not be more than 10% of the birth weight. After that, weight should be gained slowly and steadily from day to day, which is why regular weight checks by a midwife are important. After 14 days at the latest, the newborn should have reached its original birth weight again.
What should I look for when buying a cradle cloth?
As a midwife, three things are particularly important to me: material, size and ease of care.
I definitely recommend using high-quality, soft materials so that the newborn feels comfortable. Popular options are slings made of cotton or bamboo fibers.
You should also make sure that the sling offers enough space to safely cradle the newborn in the first few weeks after birth. For example, I prefer the version without leg cutouts , so you can use it for as long and as many different purposes as possible. But this is very individual.
It is also particularly important that the cradle cloth is easy to care for , as it is used frequently in your daily work as a midwife and is therefore washed frequently. Most cradle cloths can usually be washed at up to 60°C .
Discover our super soft cradle blanket for midwives - made from 100% organic cotton. A combination of high-quality, skin-friendly materials and a lovely, timeless design - ideal for postpartum care or as a gift for your midwife colleagues.
OUR EXPERT
Charlotte I Midwife B.Sc.
