A receiving blanket is a thin, lightweight blanket that is typically square or rectangular in shape and is used to keep a baby warm. It is usually made of soft materials such as cotton, flannel, or plush, and is easy to launder and maintain. Receiving blankets are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks related to early infancy, including swaddling, burping, nursing, changing, tummy time, and as a stroller or car seat cover. They are also useful beyond the infant phase and can be used as a keepsake or repurposed for something just as functional. The name "receiving blanket" comes from the fact that this item is usually the first blanket used to wrap up newborns so that their parents can officially "receive" their newest family member. While receiving blankets are similar to swaddling blankets, they are not the same. Swaddling blankets are made to stretch to tightly wrap babies of varying size, come in several materials for different temperature conditions, and may have features like velcro or specially designed shapes or flaps to facilitate swaddle wrapping.