Babywearing 101!
Types of Carriers
1: Soft structured carrier. These are also known as buckle carriers. Popular brands include Ergo, Beco, Lillebaby, Tula, and Kinderpack. There are many different brands at all different price points. SSCs are suitable from newborns to toddlerhood and beyond. Some require an insert for an infant, some have snap modifications. They can be worn on the front and back and some on the hip. There are many different types so trying them on is important; what works for me may not be the most comfortable choice for you!
Ring sling: A piece of fabric that is threaded through 2 rings. These can be made of many different materials. They are great for newborn through toddlers and can be worn on the front and hip. Very experienced wearers with willing older children can do back carries. These are available in different lengths, fabric blends, and patterns.
Woven wrap: a woven wrap is a long piece of material. They are very versatile but have the highest learning curve. There are many different types, brands, patterns, and price points. Woven wraps can be used for newborn’s through toddlers and beyond. They are good for front, hip, and back carries. There are hundreds of different carries that can be used.
Meh Dai: A Meh Dai is a panel of fabric with 4 long straps. They can be used from newborn through toddlers. They can be used for front, hip, and back carries and tend to be very customizable. They work well for caregivers of different sizes because of the ability to customize the fit.
Stretchy wrap: this is the wrap most people start with. Moby and sleepy wrap are 2 week known names. This is a long piece of fabric that has some stretch to it. They are best for newborns and small infants. They are good for front carries only due to needing 3 layers of fabric to be secure.
Safety:
A: Airway. Make sure babies face is clear of any fabric and their chin is off their chest. Make sure they are close enough to kiss so you can monitor their airway.
B: Body position. Ensure that babies spine is supported in its natural curve. Ideally their knees should be higher than their bum in an “m” position.
C: Comfort. Babies are good at letting you know when they are uncomfortable. If you find your carrier uncomfortable there are tweaks that can be made to make it more comfortable.
D: Don’t drop your baby. When you are learning a new carry, especially a back carry, use a spotter or practice over a soft surface like a bed or couch.
FAQ:
Can I wear while pregnant?
The answer is usually yes. Unless your provider has given you a restriction, you are almost always able to wear while pregnant. Finding a comfortable carrier is very important. Fit adjustments may need to be made, especially as pregnancy progresses, to remain comfortable.
Can I nurse my baby in their carrier?
Yes! I always recommend that the nursing relationship be well established before trying but nursing in a carrier is one of the huge benefits of wearing. It’s often not totally handsfree, especially with a newborn or young infant who lacks good neck control. Many people prefer using a ring sling to nurse in, but it is possible in all carrier types. If you use the cradle position to nurse (or bottle feed) be sure to return baby to an upright tummy to tummy position once they are finished feeding. I often use my Rumina Pump and Nurse tank to feed my baby on one side in a ring sling while pumping on the other side. This allows us to be close and bonded while still allowing me to have a hand free.
What about the Bjorn? Will it cause Hip Dysplasia?
Research has shown that front pack carriers such as the Bjorn do not cause any hip issue but they can aggravate one if it is pre-existing. If your child’s provider suspects hip dysplasia be sure to consult them before wearing in any carrier type. In those cases, a carrier with a wide base to fully support the hips is usually the preferred choice.
When can I wear my baby facing out? How about on my back?
Typically around 4 months proper head and neck control is achieved and it becomes possible to wear baby front facing out for short periods of time. This position can become over stimulating so it is important to observe baby closely for signs of that. Also ensure that baby is turned back to facing their caregiver at any sign of sleepiness or if they actually fall asleep.
Back carries depend on a few factors. Carrier type is one. Babies can be worn on the back in woven wraps from birth with an experienced wrapper. With a soft structured carrier there are a few requirements. Baby should fit in the carrier without any modifications (no insert needed and able to use the wider setting on carriers not requiring an insert). Typically developing babies should be sitting independently or very close. They need to have good head and neck control and core strength.
What is the best carrier?
The best carrier is the one that you feel comfortable safely using! This will differ for each person.
I’m on a budget, where can I get a carrier?
There are several budget friendly options that can be found in stores. There are also many swap groups where you can purchase a previously loved carrier. Last, many areas offer babywearing meetings that maintain libraries of carriers for rental.
What are the benefits of babywearing?
Babywearing offers so many benefits for both caregivers and babies. Wearing can facilitate bonding between caregiver and baby. It helps free up hands while still providing babies with the comfort they seek. It can help with postpartum depression and anxiety by providing a means to comfort baby. Babywearing can be a healing tool for people who have suffered past trauma. The benefits are endless!
