Please remember Safety is paramount......

when Babywearing. That is why I am posting these safety tips, with thanks from the DC Metro Babywearing group in the US who put it together.


*When learning to use any new carrier it is best to have another adult “spot” you in case you need assistance. Practicing over a soft surface like a padded mat or bed can help, too!

*Baby should be well fed, well rested, and have a clean nappy before practicing….you will be more successful in ensuring a safe and secure babywearing experience for you both!

*Baby’s position and posture in a sling should mimic holding baby in your arms. A high, snug carry that places baby over your center of gravity will help ensure that baby doesn’t slip and the caregiver’s back will benefit.

*The principles of healthy back positioning and posture apply even moreso when you are wearing baby. As always, to protect caregiver’s back, keep load (i.e. baby) close to you and when you must lift something, bend only with your knees and not your back. It is probably not a good idea to wear high heels for an extended period while wearing baby in a carrier.

*Use all your senses to constantly monitor baby. Look at baby for proper positioning. Listen often to monitor airflow. Feel and touch baby’s skin to gauge the temperature and tone. Avoid “chin to chest” posture of baby, as it can obstruct the airway. Mirrors, car windows, and other reflective surfaces can be very helpful in monitoring baby.

*Take extra precaution with respect to your personal space when babywearing. Avoid tight fits around door frames, sharp corners, revolving doors, automatic doors (like on public transportation) and other tight spaces. Remember that you are bigger when baby is attached to you, just like in pregnancy.

*SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) can happen anywhere, even in baby carriers. Thus, it is important to incorporate SIDS safety tips everywhere. Do not put soft bedding items, toys, etc in the area of the baby carrier with your child, as it could pose a potential suffocation hazard. Avoid smoking with a baby in the home. Make sure nothing is covering baby’s face. Avoid over bundling them in clothing. Remember that when wearing baby, your own body heat is added to theirs. A single layer of clothing may be all you need for you and baby.

*Babies love skin to skin contact and some experts think that it can regulate baby’s temperature and other natural responses. Therefore, you may want to choose thin layers of breathable materials and avoid excessive padding in your clothes and your choice of baby carrier. Never use any accessory that has not been specifically tested and approved for your type of carrier

*Some common activities are made more dangerous when wearing a baby in a carrier. Cooking near hot stoves, cleaning with harsh chemicals and jogging come to mind. You may want to avoid these activities when babywearing.

*Always inspect carrier before use for loose seams and other signs of wear. Replace a carrier with any sign of wear that may be dangerous.