Facing out: top tips for safe and comfortable babywearing

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-facing, it’s easy to keep them close—hands near the chin or “close enough to kiss.” Facing out, however, the head can droop forward, compressing the chest and potentially compromising airways. Always monitor your baby carefully.

Body Positioning and Comfort

Use an Ergonomic Soft Structured Carrier (SSC) Suitable for Facing Out

Soft Structured Carriers (SSC) with adjustable widths are ideal for facing out. Set the leg openings slightly narrower to support the spread squat position or frog-leg position, which promotes healthy spine and hip development. Seat your baby deep in the carrier and tilt the legs slightly upwards—this stops them from dangling and makes the carry more comfortable for both of you.

Make Sure Your Baby is Developmentally Ready

Your baby should have good head control and be at least four months old. Their head must clear the carrier panel comfortably. After 12 months, facing out can put too much pressure on your back, so it’s not recommended beyond that age.

Keep It Short

Limit facing-out carries to around 30 minutes at a time. This position is stimulating for your baby, and unlike arms-out holding, the carrier is fixed—so your baby can’t shift as easily. Watch for signs of overstimulation or drowsiness.

Remove Slack

Tighten all straps and passes to support your baby’s natural spinal curve. A properly snug carrier prevents slumping, improves comfort, and helps keep airways clear.

Consider a Hip Carry

If your carrier allows, a hip carry can be more comfortable. It combines inward- and outward-facing benefits and allows longer carrying periods. Babies can even nap safely in this position if they can sit unaided and the straps are correctly crossed. Stretchy wraps, Meh Dai, woven wraps, and buckle carriers can all work, depending on your setup.

Back Carries Can Be a Better Option

A back carry may feel more comfortable for you and safer for your baby. While newborns can be back carried with certain slings, most buckle carriers are better for babies around 6 months—once they have good head and torso control. Back carries are also sleep-friendly and allow your baby to nuzzle into your back instead of facing out. Start with front carries first to gain confidence with your sling, wrap, or Meh Dai.

Final Thoughts

Facing out can be fun for your baby, but it’s best done in short, safe bursts. Keep the ABCs in mind, use a suitable SSC, and monitor your baby closely. If you’re ever unsure, try hip or back carries—they often feel more comfortable for longer wear.

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