As a new babywearer, it can be challenging to distinguish between safe and unsafe practices. To help you learn the proper way to wear your baby in a carrier, I’ve compiled a collection of images that illustrate safe techniques. Unfortunately, with many movies, TV shows, celebrities, and influencers not following safe babywearing practices, it can be confusing for new wearers to understand the best practices.

Fortunately, the babywearing industry is continually evolving, researching new technologies and techniques to improve safety and comfort for both the wearer and the baby. It is important to stay informed and educated on the latest guidelines and recommendations because what was once considered safe may no longer be the case.

When babywearing first gained popularity in the early 90s, narrow-based carriers were among the original soft-structured carriers to hit the market. However, as more research was conducted, baby carrier designs have evolved to better support both the baby and the wearer ergonomically.

While non-ergonomic carriers, also called suboptimal or narrow-based carriers, may not necessarily be unsafe for your baby, they may not provide the most optimal position for hip and spinal development. It’s important to note that any carrier that securely holds the baby with open, unobstructed airways, in accordance with the TICKS guidelines, is considered safe. However, an optimal carrier provides all of these safety features and more.

The optimal position for a baby is in its natural and most beneficial position for hip and spinal development. As discussed in our ‘Babywearing in the First Year’ article, the optimal position changes as the baby grows older. Some people choose to switch to a different type of carrier as their baby develops, while others prefer to stick with the same carrier from birth until toddlerhood. These practices are not unsafe as long as the wearer follows the manufacturer’s guidelines for using the carrier.

Forward Facing Carry

Forward-facing carrying can be an enjoyable way to connect with your baby and introduce them to the world, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Before you start, ensure that your baby is developmentally ready, usually around 6-9 months when they have better neck, spine, and muscle control and can sit independently. Exposing younger babies to this position can harm their neck, spine, and hips because of their weaker muscles and inability to support their head.

It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when forward-facing your baby, which often recommend a limit of 20-30 minutes per session. However, this position can tire some babies quickly and be overwhelming for them. Pay close attention to your baby’s body language and facial cues to determine when it’s time to return them to an inward carrying position where they can rest their head on the carrier for better support and fall asleep comfortably on your chest.

Remember, your baby’s safety and comfort should always come first. So, enjoy forward-facing carrying with your baby, but only when they are developmentally ready, and pay attention to their cues to ensure a happy and safe babywearing experience.

Back Carry

• Read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for use. Each carrier is different and has specific guidelines for use, so make sure you understand them.
• Ensure you can see your baby’s face at all times. Do not let your baby’s face press into your body, and avoid covering their face with a blanket, swaddle wrap, nursing cover, or any fabric that restricts their breathing.
• Make sure your baby’s head and neck are gently and completely supported, with their chin off their chest. If their chin is pressed tightly to their chest, it can restrict their airway. Check by slipping two fingers between their chin and chest to ensure proper positioning.
• If your infant was born with a low birth weight, such as a preemie or twins, or has respiratory illness or other respiratory problems, always consult a medical professional and/or babywearing consultant. These babies require extra vigilance.
• After breastfeeding in a carrier, remove your baby from your breast and return them to the proper carrying position with their head above your breasts and face free of fabric, turned away from your body.
• Check on your baby often, especially those under 4 months of age, and observe their breathing and warmth to ensure they do not overheat in warmer weather.
• Always remember and refer to the T.I.C.K.S guidelines for safe babywearing: Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, and Supported back.
• If you are ever in doubt, reach out to a professional and ask for help. Babywearing consultants and medical professionals can provide guidance and answer any questions you may have.