Security Blankets

What Is a Security Blanket?

A security blanket is a small, soft blanket that becomes your bub’s special comfort object. Half the joy of buying one is giving it a name (we recommend Pooky, Blankie and Bo Bo). These simple pieces of fabric transform into cherished companions that help children feel safe, and eventually become treasured keepsakes tucked away in memory boxes for decades.

What Are the Benefits of Security Blankets for Babies?

Security blankets offer genuine developmental and emotional support:

• Emotional comfort – Provides reassurance during stressful moments, separation from parents, or new experiences. Helps babies learn to self-soothe, an important emotional skill.

• Sleep support – The familiar scent and texture signal bedtime, helping babies settle more easily. Many parents incorporate security blankets into their bedtime routine alongside safe sleeping practices and other calming rituals like gentle baby massage.

• Familiarity at home and on-the-go – Brings a piece of home to unfamiliar places. The same blanket that comforts at bedtime works magic in the car, at Nanna's, or during doctor visits.

• Transition aid – Makes big changes less scary. Think starting daycare, moving to a big bed, or overnight stays away from home. Having their special blanket along helps children feel brave.

How Do You Choose the Right Security Blanket?

Consider these factors when selecting a security blanket:

• Age suitability – Security blankets are safe from 12 months onwards when used in sleep. Before 12 months, they can be used during supervised awake time but must be removed for sleep to follow safe sleep guidelines.

• Fabric & materials – Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or fleece work best. Choose materials that feel lovely against skin and hold up to constant washing. Natural fibres are gentler for sensitive skin.

• Size & portability – Smaller blankets (around 30-40cm square) are easier for little hands to hold and carry everywhere. They also fit in nappy bags for outings.

• Easy to replace – Buy two or three identical blankets. When "Blankie" inevitably needs washing or gets lost, having a backup saves meltdowns. Rotate them so they wear evenly and smell the same.

• Machine washable – Security blankets get loved hard! They need frequent washing. Choose durable fabrics that maintain softness through repeated washes.

What Safety and Care Considerations Should Parents Know?

Security blankets aren't safe in cots under 12 months. We always recommend you use safe sleep essentials and swaddling (which may need to stop before 12 months - depending on development) instead. From 12 months onwards they're safe for sleep. Wash weekly with gentle detergent and check regularly for loose threads or holes that could pose choking hazards. Repair or replace as needed.

The Final Word

Years from now, that tattered, well-loved blanket might sit in a memory box, or get passed down to the next generation, or show up in wedding speeches. Security blankets are small things that become big memories and a beautiful yet tangible reminder of when your child was small, safe, and reaching for comfort in a simple square of soft fabric.