Babywearing Safety Checklist: Essential Checks Before Every Carry
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...
✔ You're wondering about sling safety
✔ Concerned that your carrying isn't optimal
✔ You want to feel educated
✔ You're considering getting support with carrying
✔ You're thinking about buying a sling
One of the questions I'm asked most often is:
"How do I know if I'm wearing my baby safely?"
The good news is that babywearing doesn't need to feel complicated.
By getting into the habit of carrying out a few simple checks before every carry, you can build confidence and help keep your baby safe and comfortable.
I like to remember these using the simple acronym ABC.
A – Airway
Your baby's airway should always be your first priority. And when carrying we need to make sure that they are secure.
Before every carry, check that:
Your Little one's face is visible.
Their nose and mouth are not covered - you can see good airflow
Their chin isn't forced down onto their chest (an ill-fitted carrier can encourage slumping that makes this happen)
Their airways are clear of soft tissue (we need baby's face on the hard part of our chest)
You can easily monitor their breathing throughout wearing.
Propping babies hands under their chin, and a good pelvic tuck can all help to better align the head into a good position.
If you feel that baby is not held snugly against you, dangling, slipping down, or you need to move fabric away from your baby's face to see them, then a seeking professional support will be really helpful!
B – Body Position
A well-positioned baby is usually a more comfortable baby too.
Check that:
Your baby is well supported (with a correctly tightened sling)
Their spine is supported without being forced into a straightened position.
The carrier is adjusted for their current size - and with newborns this can be a bit of a skill - it is also worth noting that some sling types will fit better than others in those early weeks.
Their position follows the manufacturer's guidance for your carrier (with this said however, some instructions really are poor - and show things like material up behind baby's head – so if you are unsure checking in with a consultant can be really helpful)
Small adjustments often make a big difference to comfort.
C – Comfort
Comfort matters for both of you.
Ask yourself:
Does the carrier feel secure?
Is baby too warm or should light layers be added - think of sunburn and covering up exposed skin too. Remember your carrier is at least one layer - and that depends on how padded your sling is too.
Is your weight evenly distributed?
Is your baby settled? - Read about baby crying in the sling and what to do here
Can you move comfortably? How do you feel - ouchy?
If something doesn't feel right, stop and make adjustments before continuing.
Four extra checks worth making
Alongside ABC, I also recommend looking at these:
✔ Check your carrier for wear and tear
Look over the fabric, buckles, rings and stitching regularly for signs of wear or damage.
✔ Dress for the weather
Remember that your body heat and the carrier provide extra warmth.
Adjust clothing to suit the conditions rather than automatically adding more layers. As mentioned above think how baby is dressed too!
✔ Keep checking as your baby grows
Many carriers need adjusting over time.
Review the fit regularly as your baby's size and development change.
✔ Know when to ask for help
If you're struggling to get comfortable or something doesn't look right, personalised support can often solve the problem in just a few minutes.
Babywearing safety doesn't have to feel overwhelming
Most parents don't need to memorise dozens of rules.
Instead, focus on building good habits.
Checking your baby's airway, body position and comfort before every carry soon becomes second nature, and can help you enjoy babywearing with greater confidence.
Final thoughts
Babywearing is a wonderful way to keep your baby close while getting on with everyday life.
By carrying out a quick safety check every time you use your sling or carrier, you're giving yourself the best chance of having a safe and comfortable experience.
And remember—if you're ever unsure, asking for advice is always a positive step.
Happy Carrying,
Emma
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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.
