A Realistic Babywearing Checklist for New Parents

If you're expecting a baby and looking into babywearing, you may already have discovered that the internet can be overwhelming.

Some articles make it sound as though you will need several carriers, specialist clothing, accessories and an encyclopaedic knowledge of babywearing before your baby has even arrived. (Of course, through my own experiences, I ended up with a sling-library) but for most the reality is much simpler, and most families need a lot less than they think.

As a babywearing consultant, one of the things I often reassure expectant parents about is that you really don't need to buy everything at once. My favourite tip is to try things antenatally (I actually offer a bump to baby package), or hold off entirely until baby arrives! You can always adapt things to suit your needs (if you wish) as baby grows!

So, what do I think are essentials, what you can skip, and how do you avoid wasting money? Have a read of my checklist and top-tips below to find out more...

What you actually need to get carrying

1. A developmentally suitable carrier, that works well with the age of the baby you are looking to carry

A consultant, or sling library can suggest what might work - and as always I do recommend trying before buying so you can understand good, optimal fit, and avoid dissappointment if some features of the carrier simply don't work well for you.

The "best" carrier isn't necessarily the one with the biggest social media following or the highest price tag. Equally something that sounds too good to be true 'i.e. it was such a bargain' often is!

The best carrier will be the one that:

• Supports and fits your baby safely and securely

• Fits your body comfortably

• Suits your lifestyle

• Feels manageable for you to use

  
  

Remember, every family is different. A carrier that works brilliantly for your friend may not be the right choice for you. Here is so more info about the types of carriers on the marketplace and what might suit you.

2. Basic Safety Knowledge

Before using any carrier, it's important to understand safe positioning. Safety is important, and especially so if you are planning to carry your baby prior to 4m old. If you're baby is premature then it really is recommended to seek support as their are more considerations beyond 'just being small' A generic summary

• Keeping baby's airway clear

• Ensuring baby's face is fully visible

• Supporting baby's body appropriately (slight curved spine J shape, knee to knee, correctly tightened carrier)

• Checking comfort - temperature falls into this category - and adjusting layers as needed so baby isn't too hot or too cold.

A little knowledge can go a long way towards building confidence. Here's a more in-depth post on safety

3. A Willingness to Practise

Babywearing is a skill.

Like learning to install a car seat, breastfeed and many other firsts you'll experience as a parent it often takes a little practice.

Most parents don't feel completely confident the first time they use a carrier, and that's perfectly normal. Getting support can really help in spades though! Here's what you can expect if you do have a consultancy session with me

What You Probably Don't Need

This is the part that parents often find most reassuring.

Multiple Newborn Carriers

If you have been gifted one or multiple slings / found a right bargain you couldn't resist taking advantage of, while this can be great and work well, be aware that sling-types might fall under the same category - I've often seen people who have 3 gifted carriers all doing a very similar job, so working out preferences can be really useful here. Equally I've seen parents with a range of slings none of which are developmentally suitable either. Getting advice on your gifted sling re the pros and cons might be helpful if you're keen to use something passed on (it likely won't be coming with an instruction manual either!)

Here's a separate post on my tips for preloved / gifted items.

Here's also some sling types that work well for newborns and why If you are after carriers for an older baby you'll likely have more options (though you may, brand-depending, not get as much longevity), which again is why it can be helpful to see someone who really gets carrying, to try things safely, and who also has their fingers on the pulse of the marketplace - as they can really talk you through brands to consider, avoid and more!

Lots of Accessories

Many accessories are marketed as essential. Most aren't.

You can usually wait and see whether you genuinely need things like:

• Carrier covers

• Storage bags

• Additional inserts

• Seasonal accessories (winter-covers, sun-covers)

Specialist Babywearing Clothes

There are some lovely babywearing clothing options available, and while they can be handy they're not essential. Most families find that they make use of clothing they already own, adding layers as needed depending on the weather. Here are some posts I've done on adjusting carrying for those incredibly hot summer days, and for the chillier winter ones too.

Do I need the most expensive carrier?

Price doesn't automatically equal comfort. You will always be paying for aesthetics and the brand over functionality. The goal is finding something that works for you, not winning a babywearing popularity contest. Here is a blog post comparing one of the most expensive buckles out there and something much more affordable

Is the cheapest going to be bad quality?

Potentially, yes. But not always! If budget is low consider a well-trusted brand at a cheaper price – getting support can be really valuable here! A consultant may even know of another library moving things on at good prices etc.

Questions to ask before buying a carrier

Before clicking "add to basket", consider:

• Have I really considered my options / could I try it in advance, and/or compare this with something contrasting to see if I really will like it?

• Is an influencer affilliated with the promotion that drew me to the product, (remember they won't be trained, may have even only tried that sling and have been promised money in return for advertising.

• Will it fit my baby? Although something is marketed as newborn, the amount of slings that won't fit a newborn is greater than those which do. You can read the truth about weight limits here.

• How long do I need this sling to last - is marketing overpromising here?

• Would it actually save me more money in the long-run and make more sense to check in with someone who really gets it (consultant, sling library) in advance of buying? Be aware that retailers (such as staff in big stores like John Lewis) won't have had specialist training to support you with getting a good, safe fit, and will be only selling those brands with best marketing budget.

  
  

Final Thoughts

When it comes to babywearing taking time is key.

One developmentally suitable carrier, a basic understanding of safe positioning and a little confidence are often all that's required to get started.

If you're unsure which carrier might work best for your family, really do consider hiring before buying or seeking personalised support.