Are Baby Carriers Absolutely Safe for Your Child?

Like many parents, I wondered about baby carrier safety. After I’ve researched the danger of babywearing, I find out that baby carriers are not dangerous if used correctly. Here are the essential safety tips that you must know before using a baby carrier.

When done correctly, transporting a baby in a baby carrier is safe. Make sure your baby carrier provides enough support for your baby’s head and neck. Also, learn how to position your baby correctly in the carrier. Follow these safety guidelines, and you’ll benefits from babywearing without putting your baby at risk.

Uncertain about which baby carrier to get? Take a look at this list of the best baby carriers. I have put lots of hours into this baby carrier buying guide, and you’ll find the ideal carrier for your child!

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When is it safe to start using a baby carrier?

Several future moms are packing a baby carrier into their hospital luggage because they plan on using it with their newborn baby. Whenever it’s possible, a newborn must be close to his parents. Therefore, you should carry your baby as much as you can in the first days/weeks.

Nevertheless, before 5 months, your baby’s neck muscles are not strong enough to safely support his head. Consequently, choose a baby carrier with enough support for your newborn baby’s neck. Also, I advise to look into the owner’s manual and make sure your baby fits the minimum weight requirement for the carrier.

How old does my baby have to be for a carrier?

You could walk out of the hospital, with your newborn in the baby carrier. Still, if you plan on using a baby carrier in the first 5 months, I strongly advise picking a carrier that provides adequate head support.

Also, the comfort of the carrier is essential for a newborn baby. Because for baby to fall asleep, he needs to feel comfortable and safe.

Are baby carriers safe for newborns?

A baby carrier is safe for newborn, but it’s not every type of carriers that are meant for the freshly-out-of-the-oven babies. To protect your baby from hip problems, like dislocation and hip dysplasia, you absolutely need a model designed with proper support.

Is it safe for baby to sleep in a carrier?

Babywearing is actually a great help for your baby to fall asleep naturally and safely. In the first weeks, your newborn might have a hard time falling asleep in his cradle. This is where the baby carrier could be more reassuring for him to sleep in.

Moreover, studies have proven that babies sleeping close to their parents are less at risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Can a newborn sleep in a carrier?

A newborn baby can sleep in a carrier; however, your baby might find the sturdiness of the head support and the vertical position uncomfortable at first.

For this reason, multiple parents prefer to use a baby sling made of soft fabric, and that provide a comfortable curl-up position to sleep more naturally.

From experience, my two kids didn’t have any problems to sleep inside the carrier. Actually, they would fall asleep almost instantly when I carried them. Plus, most of my friends used the carrier instead of the wrap, and none had problems with their baby, not sleeping.

Are baby carriers safe for baby hips?

A baby carrier is safe for baby’s hips if you make sure your baby is transported in a proper position and with enough support.

The International Hip Dysplasia Institute as research and demonstrate that the safest position for your baby to be carried is called the Frog position.

In this position, your baby looks like he’s performing a spread squat. His hips naturally spread apart on each side, with bent knees and hips, supported by his thighs.

Moreover, I strongly advise making sure your baby match the weights and size for the carrier you are using.

For more information, check out my other article about baby carrier causing hip problems.

Can baby carriers cause hip dysplasia?

In the first months of your baby’s life, the danger of hip dysplasia or dislocation is significant. Babies devices, such as a baby carrier or sling, could put your baby’s hips at risk if not used correctly.

Parents using a baby carrier without proper support or simply unsuitable for their baby’s size, are putting their child at risk of hips dysplasia.

Therefore I strongly advise reading the owner’s manual of your baby carrier to make sure of using it correctly since day one.

For more information about hip dysplasia, visit The International Hip Dysplasia Institute website here!

Can baby carriers cause bowlegs?

A baby carrier won’t cause bowlegs to a child because this condition is part of his natural growth. It could be a disease or a bone malformation that could cause the legs to bow.

Bowlegs is a condition in which the baby’s knees are spread apart even when the ankles are together. This condition can lead to arthritis in the knees and hips.

For more information about bowlegs symptoms and cause, visit childrenshospital.org

Can baby carrier cause mastitis?

A baby carrier could indirectly cause mastitis. Because the pressure on a women chest cause by babywearing can obstruct the milk flow, which can lead to mastitis.

Mastitis, mostly affecting breastfeeding mothers, is an inflammation of breast tissue that leads to breast pain.

To relieve the pressure being put on your chest from babywearing, I recommend back carrying. Also, make sure it’s not the carrier straps that are digging into your chest.

How long can you transport a baby in a carrier?

A newborn baby can be transported in a baby carrier and carried for as long as you want. However, the weight of your baby might dictate for how long. At some point, it could hurt your back, especially if you’re carrying a baby older than 6 months.

When to stop using a carrier?

Most baby carriers are meant to hold a baby’s weight up 40 pounds. Which approximately represent a 4 years old child.

However, it’s common among parents to stop using a baby carrier when their kid has learned to walk. During that particular period, parents cease carrying their baby all the time and encourage them to walk more. At that point, the baby carrier becomes useful to carry your child when he’s tired of walking (just like with a stroller).

For more information, check out this complete article I wrote about when to stop using a baby carrier.

Is it safe to wear a baby carrier while pregnant?

Carrying your baby is totally fine and safe while being pregnant. However, it’s not recommended to lift an object exceeding 20 pounds for pregnant women.

Why can’t a pregnant woman lift heavy things?

Studies have suggested that women who are lifting objects heavier than 20 pounds are increasing their risk of having a miscarriage and preeclampsia. Lifting heavy objects could cause premature labor and increase the risk of low birth weight.

Also, while pregnant, your joints are less stable, and you are more at risk of injuries. Your gravity center is shifting forward, putting more pressure on your lower back, which can put you off balance and at risk of a dangerous fall.

Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to avoid lifting objects heavier than 20 pounds.

How much weight do baby carriers hold?

Depending on the brand or model of the baby carrier you choose, the weight limit may vary. Most baby carriers are designed to support a 40 pounds kid.

In general, a newborn baby weight approximately 7 pounds and he will gain another 15 pounds during the next year. It’s around his fourth birthday that your kid reaches the 40 pounds limit of the baby carrier.

Is it safe to carry a child on your back?

The weight of your child is much more comfortable to carry on your back. Also, everyday tasks are much easier to perform with your child on your back rather than on the front.

However, I recommend waiting until your kid is 1 year old before carrying him on your back. Because in the first 12 months, your baby needs constant supervision that is more practically performed by having your kids on your chest.

Do baby carriers hurt your back?

Even if you can wear your baby kid on the front, carrying him for a long time might cause you back pain. To avoid back pain, I recommend adjusting the carrier properly and wearing your kid close to your body as possible.

When your kid gets heavier, approximately around 20 pounds, it’s easier to carry him on your back.

Are front-facing baby carriers safe?

After six months, your baby will be safe and comfortable facing forward in the carrier. However here’s the top reason not carrying your baby facing out.

While facing forward, the position of your baby is not suitable for the healthy development of his joints and hips. Plus, his fragile legs are exposed to possible injuries.

Moreover, the forward-facing position cannot support the natural curve of your baby’s back. His spine becomes unnaturally straightened and pushed forward. Your baby weight forces his body into a hollow back position, putting unnecessary pressure on his delicate spine.

On top of that, if your baby doesn’t have proper neck control, his head will be bouncing all-around.

All the pressure is put directly into your baby’s crotch, which is very uncomfortable and might have a negative impact on the blood flow.

You must consider that while sitting face forward, your baby might be exposed to many stimuli. Also, he won’t be able to cuddle in or hide if needed. Plus, it will be challenging to fall asleep comfortably for your baby.

You won’t be able to see your baby’s face, and it will be harder to respond to his needs.

Finally, the facing out position is also uncomfortable for you, because your center of gravity is shifted even more forward. All of which will put more stress on your back and spine.

When can I carry my baby facing outward?

As I mentioned earlier in this article, your baby is more comfortable to sleep while facing you. For this reason, I strongly recommend avoiding to transport your baby facing outward in the first 6 months. So he can comfortably rest his head on your chest and sleep while listening to your heartbeat and breathing.

After 6 months, your baby’s neck becomes strong enough to support his head. That is the perfect moment to start carrying your baby facing outward. While facing outside, your baby can see what’s going on around, plus his arms and legs have more liberty to move.

Whenever your baby feels afraid or sleepy, simply switch position, so he’s facing you. In general, it’s an excellent idea to alternates between outward-facing and inward-facing, as it releases pressure from your shoulders and back.

For more information, check out my this article I wrote about front-facing in a baby carrier.

Are baby slings safe?

Just like a baby carrier, baby slings are safe if used correctly.

Improper use of a baby sling can cause severe injuries, and it has also lead to death. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recorded more than 159 incidents with baby slings. Most of the fatal accidents were babies who became unable to breathe correctly while being in the carrier.

How to use a baby sling safely

Make sure you can see your baby’s face all the time, and that include the eyes, the nose, and mouth. Plus, do not cover his head and make sure your baby nose and mouth are clear from obstruction.

Even if the majority of slings are designed to carry small babies (8 pounds or more), the CPSC is advising parents to be extra careful while wearing a newborn baby (less than 4 months).

The risk of suffocation is higher within this group of babies because they aren’t capable of holding their head correctly.

Head and neck support

Before 4 months, your baby need help to support his head and neck properly. Therefore, you must learn how to keep his head supported all the time. From holding his head with your hands, to safely adjust the carrier straps and support, you must be vigilant.

You baby’s head weight represent almost 1/3 of his entire weight. It goes without saying, that facing-forward position is seriously dangerous before 4-5 months.

How to dress your baby in the baby carrier

When dressing your baby, you must take into account the extra layers of the carrier. Depending on the thickness of the materials, it can easily count for 1 or 2 additional layers of clothing.

Being extremely sensitive to temperature, it essential to dress your baby correctly.

Baby carrying in winter

During cold weather, your first reflex is to put your baby in his winter jacket, but it’s more suitable to dress in layers. Because if your baby is overheating, you’ll simply need to take off one layer.

Also, you must consider the exposed limbs coming out of the carrier, and therefore, putting an extra jacket or pair of pants to your baby. A scarf is the most important thing to avoid, as it could block your baby’s airway.

Make sure the legs are well covered, and that your baby still has his winter boots. Every now and then, I recommend reaching for his shoes, to make sure they didn’t fall off while you were walking. You don’t want his little feet to freeze. Talking about footwear, make sure YOU wear proper winter shoes with enough traction. Slipping on ice could lead to a nasty fall for you and your baby.

Baby carrying in summer

During warm weather, dress your baby as light as possible to avoid overheating. Make sure your baby’s skin is protected from the sun. Therefore, a breathable hat and sunscreen will do the job.

Also, make sure to bring enough water to keep you and your baby hydrated.

Safety rules

Here are the most important safety rules that every parent should know about baby carriers.

1. Support

It’s critical to get a baby carrier with the proper support for your baby’s head and back. Always double-check all straps and buckles to make sure they are securely locked in place. Your baby needs adequate support to be safely transported in the carrier.

2. Position

Transport your baby close to your body in a vertical position. His tummy and chest should be against yours. Plus, his legs should be spread in an M-like shape, with bent knees, higher than his rear. This upright position prevents the baby from sinking in the carrier and potentially obstruct his airway.

Also, you should never lie down while wearing your baby in the carrier, because it could interfere with the airflow.

3. Airway

While being in the carrier, you should regularly check that your baby’s airways are not obstructed. Especially during the first 4 months or if your child has respiratory problems.

A good rule of thumb is always to keep eye contact with your baby. His head should be close enough to kiss him. The safest position for your baby’s head is slightly turned on the side with his cheek resting against your chest and clear from the fabric.

4. Nursing

Feeding your baby while being transported in the carrier, can be done in a horizontal position. However, make sure to come back to a vertical position as soon as you finish nursing.

5. Hips

Your baby’s hips are especially fragile in the first 4 months of his life. That’s why pedestrian performs regular tests and check for symptoms of hip dysplasia or dislocation.

Therefore you should take extra care of your baby while being transported in the carrier. A safe position for your baby’s hips is the Frog position, in which your baby’s legs are placed in an M-like shape, with bent knees.

6. Confort

It is essential for you, and especially your baby, to feel comfortable with the carrier.

7. Preventing falls

While using the carrier, the absolute focus should be on how your baby is carried and preventing a nasty fall. It’s very dangerous for a baby to fall from your chest height.

You’ll inevitably need to pick something from the ground while wearing your baby (pacifier, bottle, toys). To do so, you must use a safe technique. Otherwise, your baby is at risk of a back dive off the carrier.

While doing so, it’s important not to bend your torso or your hips, but only your knees. This way, your baby will stay in an upright position.

Also, remember that your newborn baby does not have the required muscle to support his head and neck adequately. Therefore, the baby carrier should have an extra piece of fabric that supports the back of your baby’s head.

In the beginning, I recommend always to keep one hand on your baby even if you think he is securely fastened in the carrier. It’s easy to be distracted, forget a loose strap, and in a fraction of a second, your baby could slip from the carrier. It’s just safer to keep one hand on your baby all the time.

8. Get help

At first, it’s safer to use the baby carrier over the bed or couch until you feel confident adjusting the straps. Also, I recommend asking help from your partner to make sure the baby is secured and adequately supported in the carrier.

9. Maintenance

After you purchase the baby carrier and start using it, you should frequently inspect it for any sign of wear and tear that could interfere with the safety of the product. If you see any indication of irregular damage, you should contact the manufacturer and ask if they can repair or replace the carrier.

10. Brand

I advise you to pick a baby carrier from a well-known brand and make sure it complies with the highest safety standard. Also, check if your baby carrier is on the Safe Product list from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.

11. Extra security tips

Don’t transport your baby in a carrier while riding a bicycle or driving a car.

While carrying your baby, never drink coffee or any other hot beverages.

A baby carrier is not meant to transport your baby while doing sports activities such as running or skiing.

Don’t overdress your baby while being in the baby carrier because the extra layer of fabric from the carrier and the heat from your body might cause your baby to overheat.

Never cover your baby’s head with a piece of fabric because you must be able properly to supervise him while being in the carrier. You should always be able to see your baby’s face and make sure that he’s breathing properly.

New baby sling safety guidelines

For parents to feel more confident in using a baby carrier safely, new safety guidelines have been created. Since February 1st, 2018, the latest safety guideline recommended by the CPSC has to be applied to all new baby carrier.

These new safety standards required all manufacturer to detail the instruction on how to use the carrier. Moreover, these instruction have to include visual illustrations to help you understand how to position your baby in the carrier safely.

These new safety guidelines also I have an impact on the strength and durability of the carrier. All carrier manufactured after February 1st, 2018, must be able to hold up tree time the maximum weight recommendation. Additionally, the durability of the carrier must be improved to avoid irregular tears.

Takeaway

Transporting your baby in a carrier is safe if you take the time to figure out how to install your child into the carrier safely. The most important thing to focus on is the baby position and how to safely fasted your child in the carrier.

The benefits of babywearing are too exceptional to be missed. From my experience, baby carrying has been very helpful when I was multitasking around the house while taking care of my newborn and 14 months old daughter.

Bottom line makes sure to read the owner’s manual, and everything’s going to be okay.