When my children are born, I have found that the one way I can get them to sleep soundly is if I hold them. I don't believe that you can spoil a newborn...ever. I also believe that having mom at arm's reach is the best for baby.   I don't co-sleep unless I am beyond tired and really need the sleep. Then, my babies are right next to me. Have you ever noticed that the times a newborn is most calm (MOST of the time) is when they are close to mom? There is a reason for this and that reason is bonding. Babies know their mom's scent even before they are born...isn't that incredible? Just as they can see, hear and feel in the womb, they can also smell. They know mom's voice at birth and recognize her smell as well. This is one of the reasons I stay away from perfume when I am giving birth or just coming home with a new baby. I don't want the baby to be confused with different scents...I want them to know me.
Well, if you are the parent of a preemie or a baby that needs to be separated from you for any reason at all, then you are going to love this next product that I am reviewing for my Baby Shower Gift Guide!
Snoedels are blankets that are used for comfort and bonding in newborns and infants. They are made out of 100% cotton flannel and the head is stuffed with pure, clean and carded sheep's wool. First developed by a Dutch woman, the Snoedel was created for a friend who had a premature infant in hopes that the infant would thrive by smelling the scent of his mother. "Snoedel" is Dutch for "snuggle" and this makes perfect sense!

Here is a bit more about Snoedel and how it can help you and your baby cope with moments of separation...


I have never had a baby in the NICU, nor have I ever had to leave a baby in the hospital for any reason but I know people who have and this product would have been perfect for them!
So, for this review I was sent a Unisex Pastel Snoedel to touch, feel and "get to know". As you all know I have a baby due in just 4 short weeks and am very excited to try out this blanket at that time.
This blanket is SUPER soft and cuddly. I can see why it would be needed for a preemie or newborn. Their skin is so delicate and needs to be handled so carefully, I would have no problem putting a Snoedel next to a sleeping baby. Snoedels measure about 18" by 18"...as you can see in the above photo, it is a good size.
I also love the detailed stitching along the edges...isn't it pretty? The fact that this blanket is for a boy or a girl also comes in handy as I do not know what sex baby I am having. :) Works out fine for me! Oh yes, and it is also noteworthy to mention that all Snoedels are handmade right here in the USA, in newborn friendly environments containing no tobacco or perfumes!
Snoedel's come in a variety of colors and patterns and you can also purchase sets containing a Snoedel and a baby blanket. The price for a Snoedel is $25.95 and the sets retail for $41.95.

Make sure you also check out Snoedel on Facebook and give them a shout on Twitter too! They will be very glad that you did. :)

So, in my opinion...Snoedel is such a cute and innovative product!  I love how soft and snuggly it is and how it works to keep your baby close to you. If you or someone you know currently has or has had a preemie, then you know how important the bonding process is. Snoedel takes the guess-work out of making sure your baby knows you and feels you close to them. I would definitely recommend this product to any new parent...for now and for down the road. You won't regret giving your baby the best start that they can get!

Now for the fun part...one of my readers has the opportunity to WIN a Snoedel for themselves...their choice!! A HUGE thank you to the sponsor for this wonderful giveaway. Here are your entry options...


a Rafflecopter giveaway