Choosing the best and safest baby carrier | Comprehensive Guide

1. IS THE CARRIER SAFE?

There are many baby carriers on the market that are not approved as being hip healthy nor are they safety approved. A good baby carrier should position your baby in a safe and healthy position, and the buckles and clasps should be able to hold your baby’s weight and be free from any hazards.

INTERNATIONAL HIP DYSPLASIA INSTITUTE APPROVAL

A reputable baby carrier should be recognized by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) as being hip-healthy for your baby. The IHDI evaluates whether the carrier positions a baby’s hips in the healthy "M-position," which means the hips are spread apart to the sides, with the thighs supported and the hips and knees bent. This allows for free movement of the hips without forcing them together, promoting natural hip development. 

Look for carriers endorsed by the IHDI to ensure that your baby's hips are properly supported and positioned for healthy hip development.   It's crucial to be aware that not all baby carriers promote healthy hip positioning, and some may even contribute to hip dysplasia if used improperly. Carriers that bring a baby's legs together, such as some side slings, or allow them to dangle down, can create an unhealthy hip position. The most concerning position for a baby's hips is when their legs are held straight in extension, with the hips and knees stretched out and the legs brought together, which is the opposite of the foetal position. 

Prolonged use of carriers that maintain this unhealthy position can increase the risk of hip dysplasia or dislocation. Healthy hip positioning in a carrier avoids these problematic positions, ensuring that the baby's hips are properly supported and allowing for natural hip development.

All our baby carriers are recognised by IHDI.

INTERNATIONAL SAFETY STANDARDS

2. WEIGHT AND AGE LIMITS

Manufacturers of baby carriers should conduct thorough testing and research to establish suitable weight and age limits for their products. These limits are determined based on various factors including the carrier's design, materials, and intended usage. Adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines is essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of the carrier. 

When selecting a baby carrier, choose one that is appropriate for your baby's age and size. This ensures that you get the most use out of it while keeping your baby safe and comfortable. Some carriers are designed for infants and may only be suitable for the first year of life. These are usually easier to use as there is less to adjust, but they are used for a shorter period of time. Multistage carriershave higher weight limits of up to 20kg and offer adjustability to allow different carrying positions to accommodate your baby as they grow. 

By selecting a carrier that aligns with your baby's age and developmental stage, you can ensure a secure and enjoyable babywearing experience for both you and your little one.

3. CARRYING POSITIONS

Baby carriers can offer different carrying positions to accommodate your needs and preferences. Different carrying positions are suitable for different ages 

1. Inward-Facing Position (Front Carry):  In this position, the baby is carried facing inward towards your chest. It provides close contact and promotes bonding. This position is ideal for newborns and younger babies who need extra support for their developing neck and spine. It allows you to monitor the baby's breathing and ensure their comfort. 
2. Outward-Facing Position (Front Carry): In this position, the baby is carried facing outward, away from your chest. It allows your baby to observe the world around them. This position is suitable for older babies with good head and neck control who are curious about their environment. They can become overstimulated in this position, so it's a good idea to monitor your baby's tolerance. You should ensure that your baby's legs are supported and that their hips are in a healthy position to prevent discomfort or hip dysplasia. Babies should not sleep in this position. 
3. Hip Carry: In this position, your baby is carried on your hip. It allows for freedom of movement for you while still providing close contact with your baby. It can be a more comfortable position during activities such as walking or household chores. 
4. Back Carry: In this position, your baby is carried on your back. Back carrying is often preferred for older babies who have good head and neck control. It is also more comfortable for you when your baby gets taller, and wearing them on your chest may become uncomfortable as their head sits too high up under your chin. It allows you to maintain freedom of movement while keeping your baby secure and comfortable. Babies should not sleep in this position  

Each carrying position offers unique benefits and considerations, and you may choose different positions based on your preferences, your baby's age and development, and the activities you plan to engage in while wearing the baby carrier. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for safe and comfortable babywearing in each position.

4. COMFORT

An uncomfortable baby carrier can result in neck and backache to you. Choosing an ergonomically designed carrier that can be easily adjusted to fit your body correctly, will ensure your comfort and spine health.

COMPARATIVE TABLE 

References

APPROVED BABY CARRIERS