Babywearing is a practice that involves carrying a baby close to your body in a sling or carrier. This practice, common in many cultures for centuries, has recently gained popularity in Western countries. While it’s a great way to bond with your baby, it’s essential to do it safely. This guide will help you understand the basics of babywearing, including the do’s, don’ts and some helpful tips.

The Do’s of Baby Wearing

Do Choose the Right Carrier: There is a wide variety of carriers available, including wraps, slings, and structured carriers. The right carrier for you will depend on your body type, your baby’s age and weight, and your personal preference. A babywearing educator can help you find a carrier that fits you and your baby properly.
Do a Safety Check: Before and after each use, check your carrier for any signs of wear and tear, such as rips or frayed seams. If you’re using a buckle carrier, make sure all buckles are securely fastened and tightened.
Do Position Your Baby Correctly: The “M” position, or “froggy” position, is the safest for a baby’s hips. The baby’s knees should be higher than their bottom, and their legs should be spread wide enough to support their hips. The baby’s back should be a gentle “C” shape, not a straight or rigid “I” shape.
Do Support Your Baby’s Head and Neck: A newborn or young baby without head control needs proper head and neck support. The carrier should be adjusted to keep their head close enough to kiss.
Do Check for Airway Clearance: The baby’s chin should be off their chest to ensure their airway is open. You should be able to fit at least two fingers between their chin and chest.
Do Use a Mirror to Check Your Baby’s Position: Using a mirror will allow you to see your baby’s position in the carrier, ensuring they are positioned correctly and safely.
Do Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Babywearing can be a workout, especially as your baby grows. Make sure you drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed.

The Don’ts of Baby Wearing

Don’t Use a Damaged Carrier: A carrier with any signs of damage, such as tears, rips, or broken buckles, should not be used.
Don’t Overdress Your Baby: Your body heat and the carrier can make your baby warm. Dress your baby in light layers and check their temperature regularly.
Don’t Rush the Process: It’s important to take your time when putting on the carrier and positioning your baby. Rushing can lead to an unsafe position. Practice with a doll or stuffed animal until you feel comfortable.
Don’t Overlook Your Own Comfort: Babywearing should not be painful. If you experience any pain in your back, shoulders, or hips, it could be a sign that the carrier isn’t fitted correctly. A babywearing educator can help you adjust the carrier for a comfortable fit.
Don’t Wear Your Baby While Doing Certain Activities: You should never wear your baby while cooking, driving, or engaging in any activity that could put your baby at risk.

Some Tips to get used to baby wearing

Practice with a Doll or Stuffed Animal: Before you try babywearing with your baby, practice with a doll or stuffed animal. This will help you get a feel for the carrier and master the different carrying positions.

Start with Short Periods: Start with babywearing for short periods, and gradually increase the duration as you and your baby get used to it.

Attend a Baby wearing Meetup or Class: Meeting other babywearers can be a great way to learn new tips and get advice. Many communities have babywearing groups or educators who offer classes.

Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Take your baby out of the carrier and try again.

Seek Help from a Certified Babywearing Educator: A certified babywearing educator can provide personalized advice and hands-on help. They can help you find the right carrier, teach you how to use it safely, and address any concerns you may have.

I have four (yes, FOUR): Ergobaby 360, Stokke, Baby Bjorn, and an Infantino carrier from Target. I’ve used all of them, and I guess it should come as no surprise that the Ergobaby is by far my favorite. It’s the most versatile, softest, and my daughter’s booty and legs make the perfect “M” shape they should make, allowing me to feel a little less anxious about the effects baby wearing may or may not have on her tiny joints.

But getting to this point was not easy. Like most moms, I had anxiety about baby wearing, so since most moms have anxiety about baby wearing, I decided to enlist the help of Amber Navarro, CLEC (Certified Lactation Educator Counselor) and fellow doula-sister, to help answer some questions. She is not only a veteran baby-wearer, but also went through babywearing-specific training with Laura Brown from Ergobaby. She knows everything there is to know about any carrier on the market and is passionate about educating mamas on how to find and use the perfect one for them.

Q: What should moms know about babywearing?

A: A common worry is that babywearing might “spoil” a baby. Research shows the opposite—babywearing supports bonding and attachment. For breastfeeding moms, it also makes it easier to notice hunger cues since baby is right there with you.

Another concern that comes up often is hip dysplasia. While it’s a buzzword in mom circles, there’s no current data linking babywearing to this issue.

And remember—babywearing isn’t just about bonding. Sometimes a mom simply needs two free hands, and that’s reason enough!

👉 Learn more about hip dysplasia here.

Q: How does a mom go about finding the right baby carrier for her and her little?

A: There are several styles to try—soft structured carriers (like Ergobaby), ring slings (Sakura Bloom), stretchy wraps (Solly Baby), and woven wraps (Tula, Girasol). If one doesn’t feel right, try another.

The best way to find your match is to test carriers in person. Groups like So Cal Babywearers in Orange County host free playdates where parents can try different styles with guidance from experienced babywearers and educators. To join, start with their Facebook group—that’s where I learned the ropes myself.

Q: Any absolute “do’s” or “don’ts” when it comes to babywearing?

- A: DO always follow proper positioning when wearing your baby: tight, in view, close enough to kiss, keep their chin off their chest (unobstructed airway), and support the back.

DO ask for help if you’re having trouble with a carrier’s fit or if you feel uncomfortable.

DO buy used (if open to that idea). Facebook is full of buy/sell/trade groups where caregivers can purchase reputable, safety-tested, carriers that are budget-friendly. I would purchase a pre-loved carrier before a homemade carrier from a site like Etsy (for example) that was not safety tested.

Q: What are the best online stores or brands for mamas to read about or purchase specific baby-carriers?

A: My go-to brands:

Resources: Amber Navarro of Mamá Sol Birth

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Baby Wearing 101: The Do’s, Don’ts and Tips from a Babywearing Educator