Babywearing Basics: Benefits and Safety Tips

Babywearing, using a carrier or wrap to keep baby close while keeping your hands free, is practiced around the world and has been for centuries.

Many parents find it helpful for soothing baby, getting things done, and bonding. Here's what you should know about doing it safely.

Important: Safety is paramount in babywearing. Follow the guidelines below and the manufacturer's instructions for your specific carrier. If you have questions, consult with a babywearing educator or your pediatrician.

Benefits of Babywearing

For baby:

Close contact with caregiver is soothing and regulating. Being upright can help with reflux and digestion. Exposure to your movements, voice, and activities supports development. Studies show carried babies often cry less.

For parents:

Hands free to do other tasks. Easier to move around, especially in crowded places. Can support breastfeeding (with practice). Promotes bonding through closeness.

Types of Carriers

Wraps: Long pieces of fabric you tie around yourself. Very customizable but have a learning curve. Great for newborns.

Ring slings: Fabric threaded through rings, worn over one shoulder. Quick to put on, good for short carries and quick ups and downs.

Soft structured carriers (SSC): Padded carriers with buckles and straps, similar to backpacks. Often the most user-friendly for beginners. Many work from newborn through toddlerhood.

Meh dais (mei tais): Square body with ties for straps. A blend between wraps and structured carriers.

Different carriers suit different situations, body types, and preferences. Many parents own multiple carriers for different purposes.

Safety Guidelines: TICKS

The TICKS acronym summarizes safe babywearing:

T - Tight: Carrier should be snug. Baby should be held close enough to kiss on the head. Loose carriers allow baby to slump, which can compromise breathing.

I - In view at all times: You should always be able to see baby's face by glancing down. Fabric should not cover the face.

C - Close enough to kiss: Baby's head should be close enough to easily kiss the top of their head.

K - Keep chin off chest: Baby's head should be positioned so their chin is not pressed against their chest. There should be at least a finger's width between chin and chest to keep airways open.

S - Supported back: Baby's back should be supported in a natural position. For young babies, a slightly rounded back is normal.

Positioning by Age

Newborns: Should face inward, toward your body. Their spine and hips are still developing and need support. Make sure airways are clear.

Older babies (when they have head control): Can face inward or outward, depending on carrier design and your preference. Forward-facing should be limited in duration as it's more stimulating.

Hip carry: Once baby has good head control, can be an option with some carriers.

Back carry: Once baby has good trunk control and head control, back carries work well for older babies, giving them a view while keeping weight off your front.

Common Mistakes

Carrier too loose: Baby should be snug against you, not sagging.

Baby too low: Baby's head should be at kissable height, not down by your waist.

Incorrect leg positioning: For healthy hip development, legs should be in an "M" position with knees higher than bottom, not dangling straight down.

Covering baby's face: Always keep airways visible and clear.

Using unsafe carriers: Some older or poorly designed carriers don't support baby properly. Look for carriers from reputable companies and check for recalls.

Getting Started

If babywearing is new to you:

Start at home: Practice putting the carrier on and taking it off in a safe environment before venturing out.

Practice over soft surfaces: In case of any fumbles while learning.

Watch videos and read instructions: Each carrier works differently.

Consider a local babywearing group: Many areas have groups where you can try different carriers and get help with fitting.

Be patient: There's often a learning curve. Give yourself and baby time to adjust.

Babywearing and Breastfeeding

With practice, many parents learn to breastfeed while wearing baby. This takes some experimentation and isn't possible with all carriers or positions. Safety rules still apply: airways must stay clear and baby must be visible.

If you want to try this, practice at home first and ensure you're comfortable with both babywearing and breastfeeding separately.

Signs Baby Has Had Enough

Watch for cues that baby wants out:

Fussing or crying. Trying to push away. Overheating (check for sweating). Falling asleep at a time when you need them awake.

Some babies love being carried for long stretches. Others prefer shorter intervals. Follow your baby's lead.

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BabyZone helps you track your baby's activities and daily care, creating records you can look back on.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Follow carrier instructions and consult your pediatrician with questions.