Questions people ask
How do I wear my baby safely?
Babylist's guide uses the TICKS checklist: Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, and Supported back. It says to always keep your baby's face in view, make sure their chin never touches their chest, and monitor their breathing at all times. Follow your carrier's manual, and ask your pediatrician if you have concerns.
What about hips, newborns and facing out?
Babylist says the M-position is recommended for hip-healthy babywearing: thighs spread around your torso and supported, with knees slightly higher than their bottom. Because newborns lack any head or neck control, babywearing educator Cassidy Eisenfeld tells Babylist the carrier should support them so their head is not flopping. Pediatrician Dr. Whitney Casares tells Babylist to keep your baby inward-facing until they are five months of age and their neck muscles are strong enough to support them facing outward. Eisenfeld says the absolute minimum is four to six months with strong head control, and recommends not exceeding 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Can my baby nap in a carrier?
Babylist says sleeping in an outward-facing position is not recommended because of the risk of asphyxiation. If your baby falls asleep in the carrier, it says to watch them consistently to make sure they're positioned correctly and can breathe easily, and Dr. Whitney Casares tells Babylist to transfer them to a safe, flat sleeping area as soon as possible.
Should I get a wrap or a structured carrier?
Babylist says putting on a wrap is a multi-step process while a structured carrier is much more straightforward, and that a wrap or sling tucks into a diaper bag while a structured carrier takes more space.
