Help! My Baby Cries in the Sling: 7 Common Reasons (and What to Do)
- Emma – Little One Snug
- Jun 21
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 13
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If you're expecting a baby or already navigating life with one, you're in the right place. I'm Emma, a qualified babywearing consultant based in Hastings (UK), helping families across East Sussex choose, fit, and use baby carriers safely and confidently.
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This guide is for you if...
✔ Your baby cries in the sling, and it feels unbearable
✔ You want to feel reassured
✔ You're worried that you're doing things wrong or baby isn't safe
You finally buy a sling, carefully follow the instructions, pop your baby in…
…and within seconds they're crying, or the whole procedure is too much to even finish getting them in! If this sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone.
One of the biggest misconceptions about babywearing is that babies automatically love being carried from the moment they're placed in a sling. In reality, while some baby's settle instantly, others need a little time, and sometimes a few adjustments to feel comfortable, and confident can affect how baby responds too.
The good news is that crying doesn't necessarily mean your baby dislikes the sling. It just means this is the place where most of the crying is occurring - let's look at why it can feel like a trigger.
1. The fit needs adjusting
This is probably the first thing I check during a consultation.
A carrier that's too loose, too low or not adjusted for your baby's size can feel uncomfortable for both of you.
Sometimes even a small tweak to the straps or fabric makes a surprising difference.
2. Your baby has another need not yet met
Babies don't only cry because of the sling.
Before assuming the carrier is the problem, ask yourself:
Are they hungry?
Are they tired?
Do they need a nappy change?
Are they feeling unwell?
Are they overstimulated?
The carrier may simply be where they're expressing that need.
3. They're not used to being carried yet
Just like adults, babies often need time to get used to something new.
If babywearing hasn't been part of your routine so far, your baby may simply need a few short, positive experiences before it starts to feel familiar.
There's no need to force long sessions straight away.
4. They're too hot (or too cold)
Temperature can make a big difference.
Remember that your body heat and the carrier itself both count as extra layers.
Regularly check your baby's chest, back or neck and adjust clothing if needed.
5. They wanted movement
Some babies settle beautifully once you begin moving.
Standing still while adjusting the carrier may not be their favourite part!
Once everything is fitted correctly, try:
Walking around the house.
Gentle swaying.
Stepping outside for some fresh air.
Movement can be very soothing for many babies.
6. They're in the wrong carrier for your family
Not every carrier suits every parent—or every baby.
Some families find a stretchy wrap works brilliantly.
Others much prefer a buckle carrier, ring sling or woven wrap.
This is one reason trying before buying can be so valuable.
7. They need a little patience
Some babies take to babywearing immediately.
Others take a little longer.
That doesn't mean you've done anything wrong.
Keep sessions short, choose calm moments and build positive experiences gradually.
Confidence often grows for both baby and parent over time.
When should I ask for help?
If your baby consistently becomes upset in the carrier, or you're unsure whether the fit is correct, personalised support can make a huge difference.
Sometimes just a few simple adjustments completely transform how a carrier feels.
If you're local to Hastings or East Sussex, I'd be happy to help you troubleshoot your current carrier or explore other options together.
Final thoughts
A crying baby doesn't automatically mean babywearing isn't for you.
Often there's a simple explanation, and with a little patience, practice and the right support, many families go on to love carrying their baby.
Remember, every baby is different—and it's perfectly okay if your journey takes a little time.
Happy Carrying,
Emma
X
Every baby, every parent, and carrier is different!
Articles like this can answer general questions, but they can't check your fit / comfort, adjust your sling or tell you whether your baby is positioned comfortably and safely.
That's exactly what I do during support sessions.
I'm Emma, the babywearing consultant behind Little One Snug. I offer relaxed, personalised sling consultations, carrier hire and troubleshooting sessions for families across Hastings and East Sussex, helping you carry your baby safely and confidently from newborn through to preschool. Whether you're choosing your first sling, struggling with your current carrier or simply want reassurance that everything feels right, I'm here to help.
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About the Author:
Emma is the founder of Little One Snug, a babywearing consultancy and sling library based in Hastings, East Sussex. Supporting 240 local families (and counting) since 2024 with all their babywearing needs.
