Your Guide to Preloved Sling Safety | How to Check a Secondhand Baby Carrier Is Safe

Testing and safety for carriers is not done with a real baby. Here's what does happen and how you can know what to look for in terms of will

The fourth trimester (those first 12 weeks postpartum) can feel overwhelming, but how you navigate it can make a huge difference to your recovery — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Discover the top 5 baby carriers for newborns, including wraps, slings, and buckle carriers. Learn what makes a carrier safe and supportive.

Discover how to choose the right babywearing position for your needs with this helpful guide.

Thinking of using a secondhand or gifted baby carrier? Learn how to safely check preloved slings and wraps for wear, fit, and ABC babywearing safety with Little One Smug’s expert guide.

If you’ve ever Googled “best baby carrier” and seen some at rather extortionate prices (the Artipoppe is at least £300), you’re definitely not alone. The good news? A safe, comfy, supportive carrier doesn’t have to cost a fortune. What is worth considering however is how much use you'll be getting out of it, and factoring that into things (thinking about it like a daily cost), assuming that it will fit when you expect etc. Some of the more bargain options out there may then a

One of the most common questions I get from expectant and new parents is: “What’s the best buckle carrier for my very tiny newborn, thats going to last me a while?” Your options are definitely fewer and while my answer is 'This will always depend on your preferences, your body, and your baby, there are three carriers I find myself showing parents with wee ones again and again: the Mamaruga Zensling, the Dracomom Hatchling and the Izmi Breeze . Read on to see what boxes these

Staying snug, safe and happy whatever the forecast! British weather, it's very unpredicatable (to say the least!) One minute it’s blue skies, the next it’s sideways rain or the wind picks up, and you've no idea how to dress for it, and are even considering putting off your favourite baby group. The good news is you can absolutely babywear safely and comfortably in the rain or wind . In fact, if you know what you're doing, you can remain cosy and dry even on the most miserabl

Babywearing is such a lovely way to keep your little one close, your hands free, and it can certainly make your days feel a little calmer (see how it's helped me in my parenting journey here) , but it’s a skill you do have to practice and learn together with your baby. I'd compare learning to breastfeeding (for something that should feel natural, at first it won't necessarily feel it!). Working with families during 1-1 carrying consultations since setting up a few years a

Hip carriers seem to be everywhere right now. If you’ve scrolled Instagram, you’ve probably seen the Senara hip carrier (and plenty of other dupes exactly like it) popping up all over your feed. They look convenient, but here’s the catch – this brand / many others like it have not been safety tested . If the brand seems relatively new to the marketplace that can be a big red flag in my opinion. When it comes to baby carriers, that’s always my first thought: safety before any

Becoming a parent can often feels like a juggling act—feeding, soothing, and trying to get through the day with a little bit of balance. Especially in those early weeks, when you are just trying to get everything established. If you are breastfeeding - this is a type of attachment parenting. And a tool known well to aid attachment parenting is babywearing, simply because it keeps baby close. On their own, each provides comfort and connection. But together, they can transform

When I first started babywearing I actually used a pre-tie style of stretchy wrap, which was a Baby K'tan (if you know, you know, don't judge me!). Of course I know now due to their lack of adjustability, really these are better being described as a carry assist. (Needing one hand to support your little one at all times). Had I known what I know now, I'd of instead purchased a stretchy wrap (2-way stretch - more on that later) or an adjustable pre-tied adjustable wrap like a

Hana & Matylda Guest Blog By Hana, co-founder of Matylda Baby Last summer, I became a new mum during a brutal heatwave — and my baby...

Facing your baby outwards can be exciting for them, but it’s not always the comfiest position for either of you. With the right guidance, it can be enjoyed safely in short bursts. Here’s everything you need to know. Remember Your ABCs Whenever you carry your baby, always think ABCs : Airways, Body position, Comfort . Airways: Never let your baby fall asleep while facing out. Make sure their chin is off their chest and they can breathe freely. When carrying baby inward-fac

Safety regarding exercise classes and carriers

These three letters crossover and can really help when it comes to your safety checks each time you carry. A is for AIRWAYS Each carry layer (main panel) should support into the nape of neck (no higher, as this can actually push babys chin on chest, OR for baby's with good head control right into the armpits. Fabric should be away from face, so make use of flips, if using a hood have one side up, not beyond baby's ear so you can still see a good half of their face and mouth e

Booking a 1:1 babywearing consultation can be a game-changer for parents navigating the world of carriers. Whether you’re new to babywearing, feeling unsure about your current carrier, or want to try a few options a personalised session offers practical guidance, confidence, long-term savings, and tips you'll use for years to come! invest on a carrier once, and find the right option for you and baby Before deciding that your baby “isn’t a sling baby,” a carrier fitting walkth