What Are Receiving Blankets? The Ultimate Guide on Uses for Receiving Blankets

One of the most essential items that you need to buy is a good set of receiving blankets.

But what are receiving blankets, exactly?

And what do they do?

We will answer all of your questions about these indispensable pieces of baby gear!

Receiving blankets are a type of baby blanket that is designed to be used in the first few months of a baby’s life. They are typically smaller than other types of baby blankets and are often made from lightweight materials like cotton or fleece.

Receiving blankets can be used for many different purposes, including swaddling, burping, and shielding a baby’s eyes from the light.

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What Is the Point of a Receiving Blanket?

A receiving blanket is a type of blanket that is typically used to swaddle a newborn baby. It is usually made from a soft material like cotton or flannel, and it is typically rectangular in shape.

Receiving blankets can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a nursing cover, burp cloth, changing pad, tummy time mat, and more.

While some parents may choose to use a receiving blanket for all of these purposes, others may only use it for one or two. Ultimately, it is up to the parent to decide how to use a receiving blanket, and there is no right or wrong way to do so.

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Some parents find that a receiving blanket is an essential item for their baby, while others find that it is unnecessary. There is no right or wrong answer, and ultimately it is up to the parent to decide what works best for their family.

Benefits of Receiving Blankets

There are many benefits to using receiving blankets with your baby.

They can help to keep your baby warm and comfortable.

They can also be used to help soothe a fussy baby, and can even be used as a makeshift changing pad in a pinch!

Receiving blankets are truly versatile and can be a lifesaver for new parents, making them a perfect baby shower gift (see our guide to baby showers here).

Here are just a few of the benefits of using receiving blankets:

• Receiving blankets can help to keep your baby warm.
• They can also be used to help soothe a fussy baby, swaddled babies tend to fuss less.
• Receiving blankets can even be used as a makeshift changing pad, always have a back up in your diaper bag.
• They can be used as a swaddling blanket to help your baby sleep but this depends on the material and size of the receiving blanket, you really want to use a thin blanket which is breathable. Receiving blankets tend to be made from a wide range of materials so its vital to ensure you pick one that is best for swaddling if this is your intended purpose.
• Can be used as a stroller cover if your baby should fall asleep when out and about, keeping light, noise and distraction out of the stroller. This will help your baby sleep much better!

How to Use a Receiving Blanket?

There are many ways to use a receiving blanket. Here are some of the most popular:

Swaddling:

Swaddling is a great way to help your baby feel safe and secure.

To swaddle, simply wrap the swaddle blanket around your baby so that their arms are snug against their body.

Receiving blankets can make excellent swaddle blankets, providing they are a good size and made from lightweight breathable material.

As a nursing cover:

If you are breastfeeding, a receiving blanket can be used as a nursing cover.

Drape the blanket over your shoulder and position your baby so that they can latch on.

To protect your furniture:

If you have young children or pets, receiving blankets can be used to protect your furniture from spills and accidents.

Drape the blanket over your furniture or place it on top of a chair or couch.

As a playmat:

Receiving blankets can be used as a portable playmat for your baby.

Spread the blanket out on the floor and let your baby explore.

To make a fort:

If you have older children, they can use a receiving blanket to make a fort.

Spread the blanket over a few chairs or couch cushions and let your child have fun.

What Are Receiving Blankets Made Of?

There are a few different materials that receiving blankets can be made out of.

The most common material is cotton, but you can also find them made out of fleece or flannel. All of these materials are soft and gentle on a baby’s skin, which is why they make such great swaddling blankets.

You want to make sure you choose a material that is breathable so that your baby doesn’t get too hot while they are bundled up.

All of these materials are machine washable, which is another important factor to consider when choosing the right blanket for your little one.

When it comes to receiving blankets, you really can’t go wrong with any of the materials mentioned above.

Just make sure you choose a blanket that is soft, breathable, and easy to care for.

Your baby will be spending a lot of time wrapped up in their receiving blanket, so you want to make sure it is comfortable and durable.

Do You Actually Need Receiving Blankets?

There’s no right answer to this question since every parent has different preferences.

Some parents prefer to have plenty of receiving blankets on hand, while others find that they never use them.

If you’re trying to figure out whether or not you need receiving blankets, consider your parenting style and needs.

For example, if you’re the type of parent who likes to have everything organized and in its place, you might find that receiving blankets are helpful. On the other hand, if you’re more laid back, you might not need as many.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how many receiving blankets you need. Just remember that you can always get more later if you find that you need them!

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How Many Receiving Blankets Do I Need?

The answer may depend on a few factors, such as whether you plan to use them primarily for swaddling or if you’ll also use them as burp cloths, lap pads, and so on.

If you’re not sure how many receiving blankets you’ll need, start with at least four and go from there. You can always have more on hand, and it’s better to have too many than too few.

Wash the baby receiving blanket before you use them so they’re nice and soft for your baby’s delicate skin.

Receiving blankets come in all sorts of colors, patterns, and materials, so take your time choosing the ones you like best.

FAQs on Receiving Blankets

What Is the Difference Between a Receiving Blanket and a Regular Blanket?

Receiving blankets are usually smaller than regular blankets, and they’re often made of a thinner material.

They’re typically used to swaddle newborn babies, but they can also be used as burp cloths, changing pad covers, or stroller covers.

They are better for preventing SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) because they are lightweight and breathable.

Regular blankets, on the other hand, come in all different sizes and materials.

They can be used for just about anything, from napping to snuggling to decoration, but can’t be used for things like burp cloths or stroller covers (they are too heavy).

So, what’s the difference between receiving blankets and regular blankets?

Receiving blankets are smaller and thinner, while regular blankets come in all different sizes and materials. That’s about it! Now you know the difference between these two types of blankets.

Are Swaddling Blankets the Same As Receiving Blankets?

The answer is no. Swaddling blankets are specifically designed to wrap around a baby, while receiving blankets are just larger versions of traditional blankets.

Receiving blankets can be used for swaddling, but they don’t usually have the same type of fabric or construction.

Swaddling blankets are often made of breathable materials like cotton muslin.

They’re usually a bit larger than receiving blankets, too. This size and fabric combo makes them ideal for wrapping up your little one snugly without overheating.

Receiving blankets can be made of anything from cotton to fleece.

And while they can be used to swaddle, they don’t always have the right proportions. Some are too small and others are square instead of rectangular, which can make them difficult to wrap around a baby.

So, while receiving blankets can technically be used for swaddling, they’re not always the best choice. Swaddling blankets are designed specifically for the task and will usually do a better job.

Can You Use Receiving Blankets As Towels?

Yes, you can use receiving blankets as towels. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before using them in this way.

Receiving blankets are typically made from cotton or another absorbent material. This makes them ideal for soaking up spills and moisture. However, they may not be as durable as traditional towels.

Another thing to consider is the size of the receiving blanket. Some blankets are quite small, which may make them less effective as towels.

If you do decide to use a receiving blanket as a towel, be sure to wash it frequently. Otherwise, it could become a breeding ground for bacteria.

What’s the Difference Between Muslin Blanket and Receiving Blanket?

Receiving blankets are typically smaller than muslin blankets, and they’re usually made of thicker fabric like fleece or flannel.

Muslin blankets are usually larger and made of thinner, breathable fabric. They can be used as swaddling blankets, but they’re also great for nursing or as a stroller blanket.

Why is it called Receiving Blanket?

The name “receiving blanket” comes from the fact that it is typically given to new parents as a gift at a baby shower or during the hospital stay after the baby is born.

While receiving blankets are often used for swaddling, they can also be used for other purposes such as a nursing cover, burp cloth, or even a play mat for tummy time.

Receiving blankets are usually made from lightweight materials like cotton or muslin.

Some receiving blankets even have special features like being pre-washed or having a bit of stretch to them.

How Long Do You Use Receiving Blankets?

It really depends on the baby. Some will use them until they are toddlers and some outgrow them much sooner.

We’ve had friends who have had to buy new ones every few months because they’ve used them so much!

Others have been able to use the same blanket for years.

If you’re not sure, it’s always best to err on the side of buying a few larger blankets. They’ll last longer and can always be used as a burp cloth or thrown over the stroller on a sunny day.

Ideas for Repurpose Receiving Blankets

Once your baby has outgrown the receiving blanket, there are loads of ways you can repurpose them for future use.

One of the best idea is to have them made into stuffed toys as a memento of your baby’s first year.

If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can also turn them into nursing covers, bibs, or even a play mat.

Here are some other ideas for ways to repurpose your receiving blankets:

• -A pet bed
• -A car seat cover
• -A stroller blanket
• -A play mat for toddlers
• -A picnic blanket
• -A travel blanket
• -A bed blanket for a baby doll

Whatever you choose to do with your blankets, be sure to wash them first to keep them fresh and clean. You can also add a bit of fabric softener to the final rinse to make them extra cuddly.

The Bottom Line on What to Use Receiving Blankets For

Receiving blankets are a versatile item to have around the house.

They can be used for everything from swaddling a newborn to soaking up spills. While they’re not always the best choice for every purpose, they can usually be put to good use in some way or another.

So, if you have some receiving blankets lying around, don’t be afraid to put them to good use. And, if you’re looking for a new baby shower gift, don’t forget the receiving blanket!