If you’re a new mum or expecting, you’ve probably stocked up on muslin swaddles. Soft, breathable, and gentle on baby skin, they’re a go-to for wrapping your newborn. But muslins are more than just swaddles—they’re one of the most versatile baby essentials out there.

Here at Mothercare Malaysia, we’re always looking for ways to help mums make life a little easier. So we put together a list of ten smart, everyday uses for your muslin swaddles that go beyond the basics. You might already know a few of them, but we’re betting there are some you’ve never thought of.

Let’s take a look.

1. Nursing Cover On the Go

Featuring Essential Cotton Muslin Swaddle 4 Pack in Piece of My Heart by Aden+Anais

Need privacy while breastfeeding in public? A muslin swaddle works beautifully. It’s light enough to keep baby from overheating, yet gives you just the right amount of coverage. Just toss it over your shoulder or secure it with a safety pin. Done.

Bonus: because it’s breathable, it won’t trap heat or block airflow—perfect for Malaysia’s warm climate.

2. Sunshade for the Pram or Car Seat

Featuring Extra Large Muslin Swaddle 2pk in You Me & the Sea by Mothercare Malaysia

Out for a walk or a quick grocery run? Use your muslin swaddle as a pram or car seat cover to keep the sun off your little one. Clip it onto the handle or drape it lightly over the canopy.

A study by the Skin Cancer Foundation shows that 23% of a person’s lifetime sun exposure happens before the age of 18. That’s a big reason to keep your baby shaded early on.

3. Soft Surface for Tummy Time

Featuring Swaddle Set 3Pk in Dino Land by Joey&Mom

Tummy time is essential for helping your baby build strength. Lay a muslin swaddle down on any clean surface—bed, floor, even a mat at the park—and you’ve got a comfy space for your baby to explore.

And if there’s a little spit-up? No worries. Muslin is super absorbent and machine washable.

4. Burp Cloth That Covers More

Featuring Luxury Muslin Swaddle 1pk in Lovable Bear by Mothercare Malaysia

Burp cloths are usually small. A muslin swaddle gives you way more coverage for your shoulder, which means fewer outfit changes for you. Whether your baby spits up a little or a lot, muslins have you covered—literally.

According to experts, newborns can spit up as often as once after every feeding, especially in the early months.

5. Reusable Changing Mat

Featuring Bamboo Muslin Swaddle 3pk in Safari Party by Not Too Big

Out and about with no changing table in sight? No problem. Fold your muslin swaddle and lay it down on any flat surface. It creates a soft, clean layer between your baby and whatever’s underneath.

Unlike disposable mats, muslins are easy to wash and reuse—better for the planet and your wallet, too.

6. Makeshift Bib for Mealtimes

Featuring Bamboo Muslin Swaddle 3pk in Elephant by Not Too Big

We all forget the bib sometimes. Luckily, a muslin swaddle can stand in. Just tie it loosely around your baby’s neck or tuck it into their shirt. It’s wide enough to catch drips, crumbs, and all those mealtime messes.

Little hacks like this help stretch your budget.

7. Emergency Towel or Blanket

Featuring Extra Large Muslin Swaddle 2pk in Lion by Mothercare Malaysia

Spills happen. Baths happen. Sudden rain showers? They happen too. A muslin swaddle in your diaper bag means you’ve always got something absorbent and soft to dry off your baby or wrap them up if they get chilly.

It’s quick-drying and lightweight and folds down to nearly nothing.

8. Toddler Comforter or Sleep Buddy

Featuring Essential Cotton Muslin Swaddle 4 Pack in Bunnies by Aden+Anais

As your baby grows into a toddler, they might form attachments to certain objects. Muslin swaddles are soft and familiar, which makes them perfect as transitional comforters. They smell like home and feel like love—especially after being in your arms for months.

This kind of attachment can actually help with sleep training, according to the Sleep Foundation.

9. Teething Cloth

Featuring Iced Gem Bamboo Swaddle Cloth - 3 Packs in Pink by Not Too Big

You know how everything goes into a baby’s mouth during teething? Wet a corner of your muslin swaddle with cold, filtered water, wring it out, and chill it in the fridge. Then offer it to your baby to chew on—it’s gentle on sore gums and totally safe.

Just be sure to supervise and wash it after each use.

10. Photo Backdrop for Baby Milestones

Featuring Swaddle Set 3Pk in Apple Blossom by Joey&Mom

Monthly baby photos? Flat lays of baby outfits? Muslin swaddles make the perfect backdrop. Lay one out on the floor or in the cot, add a wooden milestone disc or toy, and start snapping.

Choose a patterned swaddle for more character or a plain white one to make your baby stand out. Either way, it’s a simple way to create memories you’ll treasure.

Why Muslin Swaddles Are a Parenting Staple

What makes muslin so special?

• It’s breathable, reducing the risk of overheating

• It gets softer with every wash

• It’s durable enough for everyday use

• And most importantly—it adapts to your needs

That’s why muslins have stood the test of time. In fact, muslin fabric dates back over 2,000 years and was once considered a luxury textile. Now, it’s a nursery must-have for mums everywhere.

Final Thoughts

Being a mum means being prepared for anything, and muslin swaddles help you do just that. They’re more than just blankets. They’re shade, comfort, coverage, and support, all rolled into one.

At Mothercare Malaysia, we carry a beautiful range of muslin swaddles made from high-quality cotton, perfect for everyday parenting. Browse our collection online or visit one of our stores today.

Your baby’s comfort starts with the little things. And sometimes, those little things turn out to be the most useful.