Swaddling article

A method of swaddling a baby includes providing a blanket having a pair of spaced-apart sleeves attached to the blanket and a pair of leg openings that extend fully through the blanket. Each leg opening is located generally beneath a respective one of the sleeves. The method includes: positioning the baby generally between the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a first arm of the baby into a first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a first end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a first leg of the baby, the first leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the first arm, through a first one of the leg openings, the first one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a second arm of the baby into a second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a second end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; and guiding a second leg of the baby, the second leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the second arm, through a second one of the leg openings, the second one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a U.S. non-provisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/754,560, filed Jan. 19, 2013, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Additionally, the entirety of U.S. Pat. No. 7,587,769, issued on Sep. 15, 2009 and entitled “SWADDLING ARTICLE,” is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to articles of dress and clothing for babies and, more particularly, swaddling blankets.

The practice of baby swaddling dates back centuries, and is still common in many cultures. Swaddling involves tightly wrapping a baby securely from shoulders to feet with a small blanket.

Swaddling is useful for soothing and calming a fussy baby. Many believe that a tightly enwrapped baby feels secure because it represents a facsimile of being in the womb. Swaddling also keeps a baby warm, which is important because a newborn cannot regulate body temperature as well as an adult. Swaddling also helps newborns sleep longer because it prevents sudden movements that can cause waking. Other benefits of swaddling are also apparent. For instance, swaddling helps restrain a baby's arms and legs keeping them out of the way of breastfeeding and making the baby easier to hold, and prevents a baby, who has limited control over his arm and leg movements, from scratching himself with his nails.

Some babies need to adjust to swaddling in the beginning. Accordingly, babies must be given the chance to become comfortable with swaddling before the practice is abandoned. If a baby does not seem to like swaddling, it is recommended that one or both of his arms be left free. Proper swaddling, however, requires that the blanket fit snugly, but not so tightly as to impede blood circulation. Swaddling usually works well for babies from birth to about three or four months of age. However, babies who are used to swaddling may enjoy it for a longer period of time.

Swaddling is, accordingly, characterized as tightly enwrapping a baby from shoulders to feet with a small blanket. However, through normal movement a swaddled baby can often loosen the swaddle provided by the blanket and scratch himself with his nails or awaken from sleep. Accordingly, given the benefits of swaddling and the shortcomings of using a small blanket to swaddle a baby, a need exists for a swaddling blanket capable of keeping a baby safely swaddled overnight while keeping the baby pacified and comfortable. This, and other needs, is addressed by one or more aspects of the present invention.

SUMMARY

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a first aspect includes a method of swaddling a baby. A blanket is provided that has a pair of spaced-apart sleeves attached to the blanket and a pair of openings that extend fully through the blanket. Each opening is located generally beneath a respective one of the sleeves. The method includes: positioning the baby generally between the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a first arm of the baby into a first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a first end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a first leg of the baby, the first leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the first arm, through a first one of the openings, the first one of the openings being located generally beneath the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a second arm of the baby into a second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a second end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; and guiding a second leg of the baby, the second leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the second arm, through a second one of the openings, the second one of the openings being located generally beneath the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves.

In a feature of this aspect, the method may further include tucking the first and second end flaps underneath the baby.

In other features of this aspect, the blanket may include a pacifier retaining structure having at least one row of openings, each opening being sized to accommodate a portion of a pacifier; the at least one row of openings may be located along an edge of the blanket; and/or the method may further include placing a portion of a pacifier through a selected one of the at least one row of openings that is adjacent to the mouth of the baby.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a second aspect includes a method of swaddling a baby.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a third aspect includes a swaddling blanket substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fourth aspect includes a swaddling blanket having a pair of openings, each adapted to accommodate the leg of a baby, substantially as shown and described.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a fifth aspect includes a method of swaddling a baby. A blanket is provided that has a pair of spaced-apart sleeves attached to the blanket and a pair of leg openings that extend fully through the blanket. Each leg opening is located generally beneath a respective one of the sleeves. The method includes: positioning the baby generally between the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a first arm of the baby into a first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a first end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a first leg of the baby, the first leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the first arm, through a first one of the leg openings, the first one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a second arm of the baby into a second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a second end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; and guiding a second leg of the baby, the second leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the second arm, through a second one of the leg openings, the second one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves.

In features of this aspect, the method may further include tucking the first and second end flaps underneath the baby.

In other features of this aspect, the blanket may include a pacifier retaining structure having at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings, each pacifier-receiving opening being sized to accommodate a portion of a pacifier; the at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings may be located along an edge of the blanket; and/or the method may further include placing a portion of a pacifier through a selected one of the at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings that is adjacent to the mouth of the baby.

In another feature of this aspect, the spaced-apart sleeves may be substantially parallel relative to an upper edge of the blanket.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a sixth aspect includes a method of swaddling a baby. A blanket is provided that has a pair of spaced-apart sleeves attached to the blanket, a pacifier-retaining structure, and a pair of leg openings that extend fully through the blanket. Each leg opening is located generally beneath a respective one of the sleeves. The method includes: positioning the baby generally between the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a first arm of the baby into a first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a first end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a first leg of the baby, the first leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the first arm, through a first one of the leg openings, the first one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; tucking the first end flap underneath the baby; guiding a second arm of the baby into a second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a second end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a second leg of the baby, the second leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the second arm, through a second one of the leg openings, the second one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; and tucking the second end flap underneath the baby.

In features of this aspect, the pacifier retaining structure may include at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings, each pacifier-receiving opening being sized to accommodate a portion of a pacifier; the at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings may be located along an edge of the blanket; the method may further include placing a portion of a pacifier through a selected one of the at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings that is adjacent to the mouth of the baby; and/or the spaced-apart sleeves may be substantially parallel relative to an upper edge of the blanket.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to a seventh aspect includes a method of swaddling a baby. A blanket is provided that has a pair of spaced-apart sleeves attached to the blanket; a pacifier-retaining structure having at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings, and a pair of leg openings that extend fully through the blanket. Each pacifier-receiving opening being sized to accommodate a portion of a pacifier. Each leg opening is located generally beneath a respective one of the sleeves. The method includes: positioning the baby generally between the spaced-apart sleeves; guiding a first arm of the baby into a first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a first end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a first leg of the baby, the first leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the first arm, through a first one of the leg openings, the first one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the first one of the spaced-apart sleeves; tucking the first end flap underneath the baby; guiding a second arm of the baby into a second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; wrapping a second end flap of the blanket, adjacent to the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves, across the baby's chest; guiding a second leg of the baby, the second leg being on a side of the baby opposite to the second arm, through a second one of the leg openings, the second one of the leg openings being located generally beneath the second one of the spaced-apart sleeves; tucking the second end flap underneath the baby; and placing a portion of a pacifier through a selected one of the at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings that is adjacent to the mouth of the baby.

In features of this aspect, at least one row of pacifier-receiving openings may be located along an edge of the blanket; and/or the spaced-apart sleeves may be substantially parallel relative to an upper edge of the blanket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

FIG. 1is a perspective view of an embodiment of a swaddling article20in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. The swaddling article20includes a soft, broad, flat, pliant blanket21having opposed upper and lower edges22and23, opposed side edges24and25, an outer face26, and an opposed inner face27, which defines a body-receiving surface or area28between sides edges24and25of blanket21extending from upper edge22of blanket21to lower edge23of blanket21. Outer and inner faces26and27are opposed, coextensive major faces of blanket21. Upper edge22is substantially parallel relative to lower edge23, side edge24is substantially parallel relative to side edge25, and upper and lower edges22and23are substantially parallel relative to side edges24and25. Edges22,23,24, and25are each hemmed in the present embodiment and each has a length, and cooperate together forming a perimeter29of blanket21. In the present embodiment, perimeter29is generally rectangular in shape, in which blanket21is overall generally rectangular in shape. In this respect, the lengths of upper and lower edges22and23are substantially equal, and the lengths of side edges24and25are substantially equal and much shorter than the lengths of upper and lower edges22and23as illustrated. Blanket21is formed of soft, pliant woven or unwoven material, such as cotton, polyester, fleece material, or the like or a selected combination of such materials or other similar materials.

Blanket21is formed with opposed, spaced-apart arm-receiving sleeves40and41, in accordance with the principle of the invention. In the present embodiment, sleeves40and41are formed at inner face27. Sleeve40is elongate and is disposed between upper and lower edges22and23of blanket21and between body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21and side edge24of blanket21. Sleeve41is elongate and is disposed between upper and lower edges22and23of blanket21and between body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21and side edge25of blanket21. Sleeves40and41opposed one another, and are spaced-apart relative to each other each being disposed on either side of body-receiving area28. Sleeves40and41are provided to receive the arms of a baby positioned back first against body-receiving area28of blanket21, in which instance sleeve40is to receive the left arm of the baby and sleeve41is to receive the right arm of the baby. Sleeve40is substantially parallel relative to upper edge22of blanket21, and also lower edge23of blanket21. Sleeve41is substantially parallel relative to upper edge22of blanket21, and also lower edge23of blanket21. Sleeves40and41are each located substantially centrally between upper and lower edges22and23of blanket21.

ReferencingFIGS. 1 and 3, in this specific embodiment, sleeve40is formed by an elongate, rectangular piece of material50having opposed upper and lower end edges51and52, opposed side edges53and54, and opposed inner and outer surfaces55and56. End edges51and52are applied to inner face27of blanket21, which is also viewed inFIG. 4, and are each secured with stitching and/or a suitable fabric adhesive. End edges51and52are spaced-apart, are substantially parallel relative to each other, and are each substantially parallel to upper edge22of blanket21and lower edge23of blanket21. Piece of material50extends away from inner face27of blanket21, and inner surface55confronts and cooperates with inner face27of blanket21forming an arm-receiving channel57referenced inFIG. 4.

Looking toFIGS. 1 and 3, sleeve40has a proximal end denoted generally at60and an opposed distal end denoted generally at61. Proximal end60of sleeve40is directed toward body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21, and distal end61is directed toward side edge24of blanket21. An opening62into channel57, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge53and the confronting portion of inner face27of blanket21, defines proximal end60of sleeve40. An opening63into channel57, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge54and the confronting portion of inner face27of blanket21, defines distal end61of sleeve40. Arm-receiving channel57extends from proximal end60to distal end61, and is to receive an arm of a baby extending into channel57through opening62into channel57formed at proximal end60. If desired, distal end61of sleeve40may be closed. A length L1of blanket21extends from distal end61of sleeve40to side edge24between upper and lower edges22and23. Length L1of blanket21constitutes a flap65of blanket21, in accordance with the principle of the invention.

Like sleeve40, in this particular embodiment sleeve41, as viewed inFIG. 1, is formed by an elongate, rectangular piece of material70having opposed upper and lower end edges71and72, opposed side edges73and74, and opposed inner and outer surfaces75and76. End edges71and72are applied to inner face27of blanket21, which is also viewed inFIG. 4, and are each secured with stitching and/or a suitable fabric adhesive. End edges71and72are spaced-apart, are substantially parallel relative to each other, and are each substantially parallel to upper edge22of blanket21and lower edge23of blanket21. Piece of material70extends away from inner face27of blanket21, and inner surface75confronts and cooperates with inner face27of blanket21forming an arm-receiving channel77.

Looking toFIGS. 1 and 3, sleeve41has a proximal end denoted generally at80and an opposed distal end denoted generally at81. Proximal end80of sleeve41is directed toward body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21, and distal end81is directed toward side edge25of blanket21. An opening82into channel77, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge73and the confronting portion of inner face27of blanket21, defines proximal end80of sleeve41. An opening83into channel77, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge74and the confronting portion of inner face27of blanket21, defines distal end81of sleeve41. Arm-receiving channel77extends from proximal end80to distal end81, and is to receive an arm of a baby extending into channel77through opening82into channel77formed at proximal end80. If desired, distal end81of sleeve41may be closed. A length L2of blanket21extends from distal end81of sleeve41to side edge25between upper and lower edges22and23. Length L2of blanket21constitutes a flap85of blanket21.

With continuing reference toFIGS. 1 and 3, a pacifier retaining structure90is formed in blanket21adjacent to sleeve40proximate to upper edge22, and a pacifier retaining structure91is formed in blanket21adjacent to sleeve41proximate to upper edge22. Pacifier retaining structure90relates to sleeve40and is adapted to receive and retain a pacifier relative to blanket21proximate to sleeve40, in accordance with the principle of the invention. Pacifier retaining structure91relates to sleeve41and is adapted to receive and retain a pacifier relative to blanket21proximate to sleeve41, in accordance with the principle of the invention. Pacifier retaining structures90and91are identical, and functional attributes of pacifier retaining structure90is discussed below, with the understanding that the ensuing discussion of pacifier retaining structure90applies in every respect to pacifier retaining structure91.

As seen inFIGS. 1,3, and5, pacifier retaining structure90consists of a pacifier retaining flap101having opposed upper and lower edges102and103, opposed side edges104and105, an outer surface106, and, as viewed inFIGS. 4 and 6, an opposed inner surface107. Outer and inner surfaces faces106and107are opposed, coextensive major faces of flap101. As viewed inFIGS. 1,3, and5, upper edge102is substantially parallel relative to lower edge103, side edge104is substantially parallel relative to side edge105, and upper and lower edges102and103are substantially parallel relative to side edges104and105. Edges102,103,104, and105each have a length, and cooperate together to form a perimeter109of flap101. In the present embodiment, perimeter109is generally rectangular in shape, in which flap101is overall generally rectangular in shape. In this respect, the lengths of upper and lower edges102and103are substantially equal, and the lengths of side edges104and105are substantially equal and much shorter than the lengths of upper and lower edges102and103as illustrated.

Flap101is formed of soft, pliant woven or unwoven material, such as cotton, polyester, fleece material, silk, or the like or a selected combination of such materials or other similar materials. Flap101is attached to blanket21, is considered an extension of blanket21, and is considered part of blanket21.

Flap101is applied to inner face27of blanket21in the present embodiment of the invention. Inner surface107of flap101faces inner faces27of blanket21, lower edge103is applied to inner face27of blanket between sleeve40and upper edge22of blanket21, and flap101extends along inner face27of blanket21and outboard relative to upper edge22of blanket21to upper edge102of flap101, which is disposed outboard of upper edge22of blanket21. Side edge104of flap101is directed toward side edge24of blanket21, and side edge105of flap101is directed toward side edge25of blanket21as viewed inFIG. 1. Lower edge103of flap101and approximately half the length of each of side edges104and105are affixed to inner face27of blanket21with stitching denoted at110, although a suitable adhesive may be used, if desired, heat-bonding, etc. A pocket120, denoted inFIGS. 4 and 6, is formed in pacifier retaining structure90, which, in the present embodiment, is formed between inner face27of blanket21and inner surface107of flap101. Pocket120extends from side edge104of flap101to side edge105of flap101, and from lower edge103of flap101to upper edge22of blanket21between upper and lower edges102and103of flap101. An opening121into pocket120from inner face27of blanket21is also formed in pacifier retaining structure90, and in this instance is formed between upper edge22of blanket21and inner surface107of flap101, and extends from adjacent to side edge105of flap101to side edge105of flap101. Flap101, and pocket120and opening121formed between upper edge22of blanket21and sleeve40, are parallel relative to sleeve40, oppose sleeve40and extend between proximal and distal ends60and61of sleeve40, according to the principle of the invention.

ReferencingFIGS. 1,3, and5, a plurality of equally spaced-apart openings123are formed through flap101, which are arranged in a row124between upper and lower edges102and103of flap101. Row124of openings123extends from adjacent to side edge104to adjacent to side edge105, opposes and is disposed proximate to upper edge22of blanket21, and is substantially parallel relative to sleeve40and to upper edge22of blanket21. Openings123each extend through flap101from outer surface106to inner surface107opposing inner face27of blanket21, and communicate with pocket101formed between inner surface107of flap101and inner face27of blanket21. In the present embodiment there are five openings123, and less or more may be employed in other embodiments as may be desired.

As previously mentioned, pacifier retaining structures90relating to sleeve40is adapted to receive and retain a pacifier relative to blanket21. InFIG. 6there is seen a conventional and well-known and readily available pacifier130consisting of a broad pacifier base or body131having opposed inner and outer faces132and133, and a nipple134attached to body131, which extends outwardly and away from inner face132of body131. To apply pacifier130to pacifier retaining structure90in accordance with the principle of the invention, pacifier130is taken up, such as by hand, and is inserted into pocket120through opening121directing outer face133toward inner face27of blanket21and inner face132toward inner surface107of flap101. Nipple134is, in turn, directed into and through one of openings123, as viewed inFIG. 5, in which nipple134projects away from inner face27of blanket21and outer surface106of flap101so as to be easily taken in by mouth. InFIG. 5nipple134is directed through the central one of openings123, and yet pacifier130may be located elsewhere in pocket120for locating nipple134relative whichever one of openings123one may desire along the length of flap101from side edge104to side edge105, in accordance with the principle of the invention.

Swaddling article20is used to swaddle a baby, such as baby140illustrated inFIGS. 2,7, and8. As a matter of reference and understanding, baby140is generally representative of a human baby ranging in age from newborn to approximately three to four months of age. To swaddle baby140, swaddling article20laid out flat onto a supporting surface, such as the surface of a bed or changing table or floor or other selected supporting surface, directing outer surface26against the supporting surface directing inner face27of blanket21outwardly and upwardly as illustrated inFIG. 7. Next, baby140is carefully taken up, such as by the hands of parent or caregiver, and is laid back first against body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21between proximal ends60and80of sleeves40and41, in which head143of baby140extends upwardly relative to upper edge22of blanket21and waist144of baby140is located along lower edge23of blanket21such that the baby's legs extend downwardly and away from lower edge23of blanket21. Body-receiving area28of inner face27formed between proximal ends60and80of sleeves40and41is sufficiently large to accommodate baby140between proximal ends60and80of sleeves40and41. At this point, left arm141of baby140is inserted into sleeve40through proximal end60, and right arm142of baby140is inserted into sleeve41through proximal end80. As viewed inFIG. 7, sleeves40and41are each sufficiently long so as to prevent the hands of baby140from extending outwardly from distal ends61and81of sleeves40and41, respectively.

To complete the swaddling process in this particular example with reference toFIG. 8, flap65formed proximate side edge24of blanket21is taken up and snugly wrapped over the front of baby140drawing inner face27of blanket21extending from proximate area28to side edge24across baby's140chest and belly between baby's140head143and waist144and flap65is tucked underneath the back of baby140between the back of baby140and body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21, in which the chest and belly of baby140is covered by blanket21from his head143to his waist144and left arm141(FIG. 7) of baby140is, in turn, drawn across the front of baby140. InFIG. 8it is seen that blanket21extends along the front of baby140from upper edge22drawn along the bottom of baby's140head144to lower edge23drawn along baby's140waist145, in which the location of pacifier retaining structure90as herein specifically described is such that it is, in turn, drawn across the region of baby's mouth146referenced inFIG. 7, in accordance with the principle of the invention. By tucking in flap65underneath the back of baby140between the back of baby140and body-receiving area28of inner face27of blanket21, left arm141of baby140held in sleeve40is restrained across the front of baby140in turn locating pacifier retaining structure90along the region of baby's140mouth146.

At this point, flap85formed proximate side edge25of blanket21is taken up and snugly wrapped over the front of baby140drawing inner face of blanket21extending from proximate area28to side edge25across baby's140chest and belly across blanket21previously snugly wrapped about baby140and flap85is tucked underneath the back of baby140along outer face26of blanket21extending across the baby's140back, in which the chest and belly of baby140already covered by blanket21is again covered by blanket21and right arm142of baby140is, in turn, drawn across the front of baby140relative to baby's140left arm141thereby swaddling baby140as illustrated inFIG. 2. By tucking in flap85underneath the back of baby140, right arm142of baby140held in sleeve40is restrained across the front of baby140relative to baby's left arm141. To un-swaddle baby140, the foregoing operation described to swaddle baby140need only be reversed.

Because the location of pacifier retaining structure90as herein specifically described is such that it is drawn across the region of baby's mouth146(FIG. 7) when baby140is swaddled with swaddling article20as herein described, a pacifier, such as pacifier130, received and retained by pacifier retaining structure90as previously described not only retains pacifier130preventing it from falling away from blanket21, but also presents nipple134(illustrated only inFIGS. 5 and 6) of pacifier130relative to baby's mouth146allowing baby140to take in nipple134of pacifier130by mouth at will. Should baby140spit out nipple134of pacifier130received and retained by pacifier retaining structure90, the provision of pacifier retaining structure90retaining pacifier130relative to blanket21inhibits pacifier130from dislodging and falling away from blanket21, in accordance with the principle of the invention. Also, the soft, pliant characteristic of flap101provides a comfortable, soft presentation against the region of the baby's mouth146.

Openings123extending in row124across flap101of pacifier retaining structure90from side edge104of flap101to side edge105of flap101define different pacifier receiving locations of pacifier retaining structure90across flap101from side edge104to side edge105. The different pacifier receiving locations defined by openings123accommodates babies of varying sizes and subtle variations in how a parent or caregiver may swaddle a baby with swaddling article140, and allows a parent or caregiver the freedom to locate a pacifier relative to any one of openings123across the length of flap101for locating the pacifier at various locations along the length of flap101from side edge104to side edge105for ensuring the pacifier is registered relative to the baby's mouth when the baby is swaddled by swaddling article20, in accordance with the principle of the invention.

As previously mentioned, pacifier retaining structure91is identical in every respect to pacifier retaining structure91. Accordingly, to utilize pacifier receiving structure91in the same manner as pacifier receiving structure90baby140may be swaddled by first wrapping flap85about baby140and then flap65, thereby presenting pacifier retaining structure91relative to baby's140mouth146. Furthermore, because sleeves40and41are each sufficiently long so as to prevent the hands of baby140from extending outwardly from distal ends61and81of sleeves40and41, respectively, baby140is prevented from scratching himself with his fingernails while swaddled with swaddling article20.

After being swaddled with swaddling article20, it is to be noted that the bottom and legs of baby140remain unrestrained as clearly illustrated inFIG. 2. As a result, the baby's diaper may be easily changed as needed without having to un-swaddle baby140from swaddling article20, in accordance with the principle of the invention.

The invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment, and those having regard for the art will readily appreciate that an exemplary swaddling article20is disclosed, which is easy to use, easy to construct, and in use provides for the efficient swaddling of a baby and efficiently retains a pacifier relative to the baby's mouth, which may be taken by the baby by mouth at will. Those skilled in the art will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to the embodiment without departing from the nature and scope of the invention. As a matter of example,FIGS. 9 and 10illustrate front and rear plan views, respectively, of another embodiment of a swaddling article200in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. In common with swaddling article20, swaddling article200shares blanket21including upper edge22, lower edge23, side edges24and25, outer face26(FIG. 10), inner face27(FIG. 9), area28(FIG. 9), and sleeves40and41. In the embodiment of swaddling article200, rows124of openings123of pacifier retaining structures90and91, although positioned relative to sleeves40and41in exactly the same manner as with swaddling article20, row124of openings123relating to sleeve40are formed through blanket21from outer face26(FIG. 10) to inner face27(FIG. 9) between upper edge22and sleeve40, and row124of openings123relating to sleeve41are formed through blanket21from outer face26(FIG. 10) to inner face27(FIG. 9) between upper edge22and sleeve41. In the present embodiment, pacifier retaining structures90and91lack pockets. To retain a pacifier, such as pacifier130, pacifier130is simply received and held by one of openings123. In particular, and with respect to each opening123of pacifier retaining structures90and91of swaddling article200as illustrated inFIG. 11, pacifier130is taken up, such as by hand, and nipple134is inserted through the selected opening123from outer face26of blanket21to inner face27of blanket21bringing inner face132of body131against outer face26of blanket21, in which nipple134extends through and is retained by the designated opening123and projects outwardly away from inner face27of blanket21so as to be easily taken in by mouth. Other than the designated differences between the pacifier retaining structures of swaddling articles20and200, the use and function of swaddling article200is identical in every respect to swaddling article20.

There are some pacifiers that have a handle that is attached to and extends rearwardly relative to the pacifier base or body. One such pacifier is offered under the exemplary SOOTHIE® trademark, and there may be others. The SOOTHIE® pacifier, as a matter of example, is a premium pacifier designed for newborns and babies without teeth who are successfully bottle or breastfeeding. The SOOTHIE® pacifier has a one-piece construction adheres to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. If desired, the outer face of the base of such a pacifier or other similar pacifier may be presented against inner face27of blanket21of swaddling article200and the handle thereof passed into and through one of openings123, relating either to pacifier structure90or pacifier structure91as may be desired, so as to retain the pacifier relative to blanket21of swaddling article200, in accordance with the principle of the invention.

FIG. 12is a perspective view of still another embodiment of a swaddling article300in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. The swaddling article300includes a soft, broad, flat, pliant blanket321having opposed upper and lower edges322and323, opposed side edges324and325, an outer face326, and an opposed inner face327, which defines a body-receiving surface or area328between sides edges324and325of blanket321extending from upper edge322of blanket321to lower edge323of blanket321. Outer and inner faces326and327are opposed, coextensive major faces of blanket321. Upper edge322is substantially parallel relative to lower edge323, side edge324is substantially parallel relative to side edge325, and upper and lower edges322and323are substantially parallel relative to side edges324and325. Edges322,323,324, and325are each hemmed in the present embodiment and each has a length, and cooperate together forming a perimeter329of blanket321. In the present embodiment, perimeter329is generally rectangular in shape, in which blanket321is overall generally rectangular in shape. In this respect, the lengths of upper and lower edges322and323are substantially equal, and the lengths of side edges324and325are substantially equal and much shorter than the lengths of upper and lower edges322and323as illustrated. Blanket321is formed of soft, pliant woven or unwoven material, such as cotton, polyester, fleece material, or the like or a selected combination of such materials or other similar materials.

Blanket321is formed with opposed, spaced-apart arm-receiving sleeves340and341, in accordance with the principle of the invention. In the present embodiment, sleeves340and341are formed at inner face327. Sleeve340is elongate and is disposed between upper and lower edges322and323of blanket321and between body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321and side edge324of blanket321. Sleeve341is elongate and is disposed between upper and lower edges322and323of blanket321and between body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321and side edge325of blanket321. Sleeves340and341oppose one another, and are spaced-apart relative to each other each being disposed on either side of body-receiving area328. Sleeves340and341are provided to receive the arms of a baby positioned back first against body-receiving area328of blanket321, in which instance sleeve340is to receive the left arm of the baby and sleeve341is to receive the right arm of the baby. Sleeve340is substantially parallel relative to upper edge322of blanket321, and also lower edge323of blanket321. Sleeve341is substantially parallel relative to upper edge322of blanket321, and also lower edge323of blanket321. Sleeves340and341are each located substantially centrally between upper and lower edges322and323of blanket321.

Sleeve340is formed by an elongate, rectangular piece of material350having opposed upper and lower end edges351and352, opposed side edges353and354, and opposed inner and outer surfaces355and356. End edges351and352are applied to inner face327of blanket321and are each secured with stitching and/or a suitable fabric adhesive. End edges351and352are spaced-apart, are substantially parallel relative to each other, and are each substantially parallel to upper edge322of blanket321and lower edge323of blanket321. Piece of material350extends away from inner face327of blanket321, and inner surface355confronts and cooperates with inner face327of blanket321forming an arm-receiving channel357.

Sleeve340has a proximal end denoted generally at360and an opposed distal end denoted generally at361. Proximal end360of sleeve340is directed toward body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321, and distal end361is directed toward side edge324of blanket321. An opening362into channel357, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge353and the confronting portion of inner face327of blanket321, defines proximal end360of sleeve340. An opening363into channel357, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge354and the confronting portion of inner face327of blanket321, defines distal end361of sleeve340. Arm-receiving channel357extends from proximal end360to distal end361, and is to receive an arm of a baby extending into channel357through opening362into channel357formed at proximal end360. If desired, distal end361of sleeve340may be closed. A length L3of blanket321extends from distal end361of sleeve340to side edge324between upper and lower edges322and323. Length L3of blanket321constitutes a flap365of blanket321. Beneath sleeve340and positioned, in part, in flap365is an opening397that extends fully through blanket321. Opening397is sized to fit comfortably around the leg of a baby when the leg is inserted through opening397during the swaddling process, as explained in more detail below.

Like sleeve340, sleeve341is formed by an elongate, rectangular piece of material370having opposed upper and lower end edges371and372, opposed side edges373and374, and opposed inner and outer surfaces375and376. End edges371and372are applied to inner face327of blanket321and are each secured with stitching and/or a suitable fabric adhesive. End edges371and372are spaced-apart, are substantially parallel relative to each other, and are each substantially parallel to upper edge322of blanket321and lower edge323of blanket321. Piece of material370extends away from inner face327of blanket321, and inner surface375confronts and cooperates with inner face327of blanket321forming an arm-receiving channel377.

Sleeve341has a proximal end denoted generally at380and an opposed distal end denoted generally at381. Proximal end380of sleeve341is directed toward body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321, and distal end381is directed toward side edge325of blanket321. An opening382into channel377, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge373and the confronting portion of inner face327of blanket321, defines proximal end380of sleeve341. An opening383into channel377, which is formed by the cooperation between side edge374and the confronting portion of inner face327of blanket321, defines distal end381of sleeve341. Arm-receiving channel377extends from proximal end380to distal end381, and is to receive an arm of a baby extending into channel377through opening382into channel377formed at proximal end380. If desired, distal end381of sleeve341may be closed. A length L4of blanket321extends from distal end381of sleeve341to side edge325between upper and lower edges322and323. Length L4of blanket321constitutes a flap385of blanket321. Beneath sleeve341and positioned, in part, in flap385is an opening398that extends fully through blanket321. Opening398is sized to fit comfortably around the leg of a baby when the leg is inserted through opening398during the swaddling process, as explained in more detail below.

With continuing reference toFIG. 12, a pacifier retaining structure390is formed in the blanket321proximate to the upper edge322. Pacifier retaining structure390includes two rows391and392of spaced-apart openings394and395formed through the blanket321. The first row391of spaced-apart openings394is situated generally above and substantially parallel to sleeve340, and the second row392of spaced-apart openings395is situated generally above and substantially parallel to sleeve341. Pacifier retaining structure390relates to sleeves340and341and is adapted to receive and retain a pacifier relative to blanket321proximate to sleeves340and341. The rows391and392may include any desired quantity of openings394and395. In one contemplated embodiment, each row391and392includes eight equally spaced-apart openings394and395. Other aspects and features of the pacifier retaining structure390, including the use and function thereof, are the same or similar to aspects and features of the pacifier retaining structures90and91, which are described above in connection withFIGS. 1-11.

Openings394and395of the pacifier retaining structure390are adapted to accommodate a portion of a pacifier. In one contemplated embodiment, a nipple portion of a pacifier is positioned through one of the openings394and395so as to be easily taken in by mouth when the baby is swaddled. In another contemplated embodiment, a handle portion of a pacifier is positioned through one of the openings394and395so as to permit the nipple to be easily taken in by mouth when the baby is swaddled. In either case, the pacifier can be positioned relative to whichever of openings394and395is located adjacent to the baby's mouth. When the baby is swaddled with the swaddling article300, the pacifier retaining structure390helps to retain the pacifier in proper position so that the baby can be soothed by the pacifier while swaddled.

FIGS. 13-16illustrate a method of swaddling a baby310using swaddling article300.FIG. 13is a perspective view of baby310initially positioned relative to the swaddling article300ofFIG. 12.FIGS. 14 and 15are perspective views of baby310shown partially swaddled by the swaddling article300ofFIG. 12.FIG. 16is a perspective view of baby310shown fully swaddled by the swaddling article300ofFIG. 12. As a matter of reference and understanding, baby310is generally representative of a human baby ranging in age from newborn to approximately three to four months of age.

With reference toFIGS. 12-16, swaddling article300is laid out flat onto a supporting surface, such as the surface of a bed or changing table or floor or other selected supporting surface, directing outer surface326against the supporting surface and directing inner face327of blanket321outwardly and upwardly. Next, baby310is carefully taken up, such as by the hands of parent or caregiver, and is laid back first against body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321generally between proximal ends360and380of sleeves340and341, in which the baby's head extends upwardly relative to upper edge322of blanket321and the baby's waist is located along lower edge323of blanket321such that the baby's legs extend downwardly and away from lower edge323of blanket321.

The baby's right arm is inserted into sleeve341through proximal end380. As illustrated inFIG. 14, flap385is taken up and snugly wrapped over the front of baby310such that the inner face327of blanket321extends across the baby's chest and belly. The baby's left leg is placed through opening398, and the blanket321is pulled snugly against baby310. As illustrated inFIG. 15, flap385is tucked underneath baby310between the baby's back and the body-receiving area328of inner face327of blanket321. The baby's chest and belly are covered by blanket321and the baby's right arm is drawn across the baby's front. The blanket321is held in position both by the flap385being tucked underneath the baby's back and by the baby's left leg extending through opening398.

The baby's left arm is inserted into sleeve340through proximal end360. Sleeves340and341are each sufficiently long so as to prevent the baby's hands from extending outwardly from distal ends361and381of sleeves340and341, respectively. Flap365is taken up and snugly wrapped over the front of baby310such that the inner face327of blanket321extends across the baby's chest and belly. The baby's right leg is placed through opening397, and the blanket321is pulled snugly against baby310. As illustrated inFIG. 16, flap365is tucked underneath baby310. The weight of baby310helps to retain flap365underneath baby310, thereby keeping baby310safely swaddled. The baby's chest and belly are covered by blanket321and the baby's left arm is drawn across the baby's front, generally over or adjacent to the baby's right arm. The blanket321is held in position both by the flap365being tucked underneath the baby's back and by the baby's right leg extending through opening397.

Though the swaddling process using swaddling article300is described above with respect to the baby's right arm being swaddled first, it is contemplated that the swaddling process can be implemented in reverse manner, with the baby's left arm being swaddled first, followed by the baby's right arm.

When swaddled with swaddling article300, the baby's chest and belly are effectively covered by both end flaps365and385of blanket321. The baby's arms are restrained comfortably in front of baby within sleeves340and341, and the baby's legs are tucked through openings397and398. With the baby's legs extending through openings397and398, the blanket is effectively kept away from the baby's head and neck, and the blanket321is much less likely to be removed or unswaddled inadvertently by the baby's movement. To un-swaddle baby310, the foregoing operation described to swaddle baby310need only be reversed.

As further illustrated inFIG. 16, pacifier retaining structure390is, in turn, drawn across the region of baby's mouth when the baby310is swaddled with swaddling article300. In this regard, a portion of pacifier330can be received and retained by pacifier retaining structure390, which effectively prevents the pacifier330from falling away from blanket321. Openings394and395define different pacifier receiving locations of pacifier retaining structure390. The different pacifier receiving locations defined by openings394and395accommodates babies of varying sizes and subtle variations in how a parent or caregiver may swaddle a baby with swaddling article310. Furthermore, the variety of openings394and395allows a parent or caregiver the freedom to locate a pacifier330relative to any one of openings394and395for ensuring the pacifier330is in proper position relative to the baby's mouth when the baby is swaddled by swaddling article310.

When pacifier330is retained within one of openings394and395, the nipple of pacifier330is presented in such a way relative to baby's mouth such that the baby310can take in the nipple by mouth at will. Should baby310spit out the nipple of pacifier330, the pacifier retaining structure390inhibits pacifier130from dislodging and falling away from blanket321.

As pacifier retaining structure390includes two rows391and392of spaced-apart openings394and395, it is contemplated that the pacifier retaining structure390can be utilized to retain a pacifier330irrespective of which flap365and385is wrapped across the baby's chest first.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.