The baby wearing safety tips you need to know

Just like anything else, when it comes to baby wearing, your baby’s safety comes first. While baby wraps are perfectly safe to use, you will still need to follow the best practices to keep your little one out of harms way.

Below are some considerations you will need to take on board when using a baby wrap or similar baby carrier…

Follow the instructions

If you have never been a fan of reading instruction manuals then please, make an exception this time. The effectiveness of your baby wrap relies on you using it correctly. Instructions may vary for the make and model of your baby wrap. Be sure to reread the instructions each and every time you purchase a baby wrap as a precaution.

Use an appropriate wrap

Baby’s come in all shapes and sizes. While it would be lovely for a one size fits all baby carrier, this simply is not a reality. When shopping have your baby’s weight and height on hand so that you can correctly choose a suitable baby wrap.

Wrap in one go

Do not leave your baby unattended when you are in the process of preparing your baby wrap. Like with any piece of material, your baby can easily become entangled, or worse, suffocate. If you need to stop wrapping for whatever reason, remove your baby from the fabric until you are prepared to complete the process in one sitting.

Be attentive

Even though your baby is close at hand you will still want to glance down every now and then to check up on him. Check and make sure your baby is in a comfortable position, can breath easily and that the carrier is not so tight that it cuts off circulation. Your baby does not have the luxury of telling you himself that he is in an uncomfortable position.

You will also want to be aware of your babes circle of reach. Baby’s love to grab onto anything within their near vicinity. You will be want to be particularly wary if back carrying as your little one can reach objects that will be outside of your field of vision.

Comfort is key

While it is important that your baby is snug and cozy in a baby wrap you shouldn’t forget about your own comfort. If you are suffering from a sore back or poor posture due to wearing a baby wrap then seek medical advice before continuing its use.

Check your wrap for signs of wear

Check your baby wrap for signs of wear before each use. Look for frays or tears in the fabric and if found, discontinue its use. The last thing you want is for your baby wrap to tear, sending your baby tumbling to the ground.

Aerobic Exercise and baby wraps don’t mix

According to the American Chiropractic Association, you should never baby wear while exercising. This includes activities such as jogging, running or aerobics.

Your baby’s body is still developing and is much more susceptible to sudden changes of direction than your own. The up and down movements associated with aerobic exercises can damage your baby’s neck, spine or even brain.

Monitor your baby’s airway

Be mindful of positions that curl your baby’s chin against his chest. This can place strain on your baby’s airway and restrict the ability to breath.

Also take care to never allow the wrap fabric, or any other material, to cover your baby’s head or face. Not only does this prevent you from being able to check on your baby but can also be a suffocation hazard.

Do not baby wear and cook

There is so much that can go wrong when baby wearing and cooking that it is simply not worth the risk. Hotplate burns, pan handles being pulled and spitting oil are but a few of the risks to your baby if you cook while wearing your little one.

Or baby wear and drive

This should be an obvious point but is still worth mentioning as your baby’s safety is at risk. While baby wraps come with all manner of benefits, they simply are not designed for car use.

In case you needed any more motivation, it is a requirement for babies to be secured by car seats when driving and fines can be issued for non compliance.

The above list is by no means exhaustive and you should always trust your own instincts when it comes to your baby’s safety.

While all these safety tips may prove daunting, they are little more than common sense. If used correctly a baby wrap is safer than carrying a baby in your arms.

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