A Beginner’s Guide to Baby Wearing

Most expectant parents spend countless hours contemplating which stroller, car seat, or travel system to purchase. However, studies have proven that mothers often find a baby wearing a more convenient way to get around and soothe their baby than a stroller. Check out our beginner's guide if you are on the fence about baby wearing. 

What is baby wearing?

"Baby wearing" is common practice in many developing nations, and uses a length of fabric or baby carrier to wear a baby close to a person's body. It has become more commonplace in the Global North in recent decades, likely due to the uptake of attachment parenting.

What are the different types of baby wearing carriers?

Baby wearing equipment comes in many forms, but the common thread is that the baby is held close to the body and allows for hands-free mobility so that you can transport your child with ease. Here are some of the most common types of baby wearing devices:

Soft-Structured Carriers

SSCs look similar to those on offer by Diono. A padded waist belt connects with a strong buckle, and the padded straps are worn over the wearer's shoulders. The baby can be worn either on the front or the back. SSCs are great for heavier babies and older toddlers up to 50 lbs though an infant insert can make carrying a newborn easier.

Slings

Slings are a cloth form of baby carrier that is worn over one shoulder and often connected with a large ring where the wearer's breast pocket might be. The fabric forms a pouch-like seat that the baby or child sits in.

Stretchy Wraps

These extra-long lengths of stretchy fabric can seem intimidating at first. The elaborate crisscross pattern to affix a baby takes practice, but the learning curve is steep. Stretchy wraps are fantastic for newborns and toddlers up to about 20 pounds, but they are only front or side wearing.

Hybrid Wraps

Hybrid wraps combine stretchy wraps for tying the wrap to the wearer and a stiffer fabric for holding the baby. These are appropriate for back wearing, whereas stretchy wraps should never be used for carrying a baby on your back. 

What type of baby carrier is best?

The best baby carrier is an entirely personal choice and might change as your baby grows. Some people swear by the ring sling, whereas others find the weight-bearing being all on one shoulder to be painful. The critical factor is to ensure your baby is safe and you are both comfortable.

Is baby wearing safe?

Baby wearing is entirely safe and has been practiced for generations worldwide. Each type of baby carrier has a different set of regulations and precautions, so ensure that you read up about the particular type. However, with all baby wearing equipment, follow the TICKS guideline, which stands for:

• Tight
• In View
• Close Enough to Kiss
• Supported Back

Can a person wear two babies at once?

Wearing two babies at once or in tandem is entirely feasible, depending on the load that the wearer can bear. For example, some people choose to baby wear twins, and others carry children of varying ages. This typically requires two different baby carriers being worn simultaneously.

Baby wearing enhances the connection between wearer and baby and can assist with breastfeeding. In addition, skin-to-skin contact is beneficial for regulating body temperature, breathing, and heartbeats in newborns. Conversely, parents and caregivers will appreciate the convenience of hands-free travel while ensuring the baby is always close.