There are so many wonderful benefits of babywearing. From supporting baby’s natural posture to reducing infant crying to strengthening the bond between baby and their caregivers and more, using a baby carrier is a win-win for you and your baby - emotionally, cognitively and physically.
But if you’ve never used a baby carrier, everything is new and unknown. So, you might be asking yourself things like what kind of ergonomic baby carrier should you use? When can you start using a baby carrier? Is a baby carrier safe for newborns? What about baby carrier safety and hip dysplasia?
Here are the basic things you need to know about using a baby carrier.
1. You can start using a baby carrier from day one.
So, let’s start with the question: is a baby carrier safe for newborns? Yes, if it offers the correct ergonomic support. With the right carrier or wrap you can even take it with you to the hospital and use it the day your baby is born. Using it in the early days and weeks is a great way to bond with your new baby while keeping your hands free when you need to. Babies need to maintain a close connection with you right from the start. And while you can get that closeness by holding your baby in your arms, it’s not always convenient to hold your baby every hour of the day. In comparison, using a baby carrier is very easy and convenient. Additionally, it’s a great way to get in the benefits of skin-to-skin contact from the start. Just be sure your baby meets the minimum weight and height requirements (our carriers are largely suitable from 7lbs and our Aura Wrap is suitable from 8lbs) for your baby carrier to ensure a safe and comfortable fit (high and tight with their face in sight).
2. Do research on different baby carriers.
There are so many types of baby carriers out there. The most popular ones today are wraps, slings, soft-structured (often referred to as "buckle" carriers) and the relatively new hip seat carriers. Research types and safety reviews online, ask family and friends about baby carriers they use, and go check out different types of baby carriers in stores or visit a sling library before purchasing one.
3. Know the different baby carrying positions and when to use them.
Did you know there are different ways to hold a baby in a carrier? The main baby-carrying positions include:
- Front inward facing
- Front outward facing
- Hip carry
- Back carry
Your baby’s weight, age and developmental stage will determine when they’re ready for each of the different baby carrying positions. So, keep that in mind and check your owner’s manual to be sure you follow its minimum weight and age requirements, but the following is about when you can typically start using the four different carrying positions based on age:
- Inward facing - 0+ months (as long as baby weighs 7lbs): If you are not sure which carrier to start with, we can recommend an Embrace as it’s specially designed for newborns and a great introduction to babywearing, or our Omni Deluxe for a great all-rounder. It can be used from birth without a newborn insert all the way through toddlerhood (up to 45lbs) and allows all four carrying positions. It’s our all-in-one ready for anything carrier and is available in breathable mesh, cuddly soft cotton or a natural linen version.
- Outward facing - 5-6+ months: It’s important not to rush into facing baby outwards. To protect their airways their neck needs to be strong enough to hold up their head and they need to be tall enough for their chin to clear the panel when they’re sitting deeply in the seat. This could be as early as 5 months or not until they’re 6 months or older. It’s also best to start with short increments of time facing outwards (5-10mins) so they don’t get overstimulated. They must also never sleep in this position. See the full checklist to know when they’re ready here.
- Hip carry - 6+ months: It might be a little way off but once baby gets to the stage where they want to to constantly be up in your arms then down then up again then hip carrying is the perfect solution. It lets you have the convenience of letting your baby explore and stay curious, while allowing them the safety and comfort of staying close when they need. Some carriers allow a hip carry or you can use a specially designed hip seat. Find out if a hip carrier could be right for you by reading our blog here.
- Back carry - 6+ months: If your little one is getting more and more curious about what’s going on around them in the world, they’re getting heavier on your front or you just want some more freedom of movement with your hands, a back carry is a great option. Read everything you need to know about a back carry here.
4. Know how to practice safe babywearing.
Nothing matters more to you than making sure your baby is loved and protected. You want to keep your baby safe while in their baby carrier, and you want to feel safe and comfortable while using the baby carrier. Here are the do’s and don’ts of baby carrier safety:
- Do carry your baby in the correct position.
This means keeping baby sitting upright with their neck fully supported, airways visible and clear, chin off their chest, as well as close against you and high up on your torso (you should be able to easily kiss their sweet, little head). More on this here! Please also only use a carry position your baby is developmentally ready for (see above for more on this).
- Do sit baby in an ergonomic position.
Your baby should be sitting in a natural squat-spread - or M-shaped - position with their knees above their bottom. This ergonomic position supports the spine, hips and legs and helps to prevent hip dysplasia.
- Do secure all carrier fasteners.
Make sure that buckles, buttons etc. are tight and securely fastened. Lots of our carriers have extra elastic loops near where the buckles close to create an extra level of safety.
- Do check fabric for wear and tear.
Tears or holes can make a baby carrier unsafe. If you notice anything, please contact our customer service team.
- Don't dress your baby too warmly.
Your baby can quickly become too warm due to the close proximity to the body in the carrier. Take into account the time of year, outdoor and indoor temperatures (depending on where you are traveling), your own clothing and your planned activities to dress your baby appropriately. Remember: the baby carrier counts as an extra layer of clothing and your body heat can also act as a heater. See more on dressing baby for winter babywearing here and dressing baby for summer babywearing here.
- Don’t lie down while using a baby carrier.
Babies need to stay in an upright position in their baby carrier, so if you need to lie down, take your baby out of their carrier first.
- Don’t let baby sleep while facing outwards
Once baby reaches the appropriate developmental milestones (see above) they can face outwards in your baby carrier. However this is only safe while baby is awake so please turn them back around to face you if they start to get sleepy.
- Don’t use a baby carrier while biking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.
Light physical activities such as walking, hiking and suitable fitness exercises are fine. There are also special training courses designed for sports with baby carriers. You should avoid intensive sports activities with the baby carrier as they can endanger your safety and that of your baby.
- Don’t drink hot liquids or eat hot foods.
Biscuit crumbs on your baby's head are not a problem, but hot coffee or soup etc. could injure their sensitive scalp. Pay attention to what you eat and drink when babywearing. Top tip: the integrated privacy hood of our Omni and Adapt baby carriers is top notch crumb protection!
- Do be more cautious and alert.
Because your center of gravity changes when you wear your baby, your chances of falling can increase. Be more aware of your surroundings and careful when on or nearby stairs, slippery surfaces, curbs and other tripping hazards.
5. Practice using the baby carrier before putting your baby in it.
Whatever carrier you choose, practice using it before baby arrives to help you get used to it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by reading the manual and watching a few instructional videos.
- Try practicing taking it on and off, adjusting it and testing out the different positions. Use a baby doll or teddy bear if you want.
- Practice, practice, practice until you feel comfortable. You got this!
- Even once you feel comfortable, having someone nearby lending a helping hand the first time you use your baby carrier with your baby can bolster your confidence.
Baby carrier pro incoming - you're ready to go!
A baby carrier offers you and your baby numerous valuable benefits - from promoting physical and emotional development to being a practical solution for busy parents. If you're looking for a new ergonomic baby carrier, you've come to the right place. Our baby carriers have been carefully designed to meet different needs and preferences. We are certain you’ll find the perfect baby carrier to suit you and your little one. All our carriers are also covered by our ErgoPromise Lifetime Guarantee so you can be sure they’ll last!