Babywearing has become a recommended practice even for newborns. It promotes a stronger bond, making the baby directly feel the warmth and the heartbeat of the parent. And the best part: keeping your hands free, allowing you to multitask while carrying your child.
Best Baby Carriers Australia
Is it time to use a baby carrier? Will your baby be safe? What baby carrier should you buy? These are just some of the usual questions by parents when it comes to using baby carriers. So here’s a quick guide on how to choose the best and most comfortable baby carrier.
Choosing the Right Type of Carrier
You can go for the softer fabric options like wraps and sling pouches. Then there are the soft padded and buckle carriers, usually worn in front. Some of these buckled carriers also have the option to carry the baby on the wearer’s back or hip. Rigid and structured backpack carriers are also used by older infants or toddlers.
These different types of carriers are somewhat age and weight-appropriate, which can also guide the parents. Hybrid and convertible carriers are also now available, making these more convenient and long-lasting.
Remember T.I.C.K.S.
What needs to be remembered in using a baby carrier? Experts narrowed it down to 5 things through the T.I.C.K.S. rule.
- Tight
- In View at All Times
- Close Enough to Kiss
- Keep Chin off Chest
- Support Back
The basic principle is to keep the baby close and snug to the parent while giving enough support to the baby’s head, neck, back and hips. The baby’s airway must also never be restricted or blocked in any way.
It is also recommended that the baby’s lower body is in the hip-healthy ‘M’ position, where the knees are apart and slightly above the bottom while supporting the thighs and the hips. This also helps reduce the risk of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), where the joint of the hip does not match that of the thigh.
Forward Facing or Inward Facing
Inward facing carriers are best used during the baby’s first few months. It allows them to feel secure and constantly able to see the face of their parents.
But as the infant reaches the sixth month, or once they have better neck and head control, parents can switch to a forward-facing carrier. It also helps satisfy the baby’s curiosity, allowing the chance to see more of the surroundings.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Aside from the baby’s safety, the wearer’s comfort must also be considered. The straps must be comfortable and sturdy without pulling on the parent’s back. The material’s breathability and bulkiness must also be per the wearer’s preference. The carrier should also be adjustable if other people use it while caring for the baby.
But the most important consideration: the carrier must be handy enough to be worn and secured with all its straps, clips and buckles without any additional help!
Baby carriers should be beneficial for both the wearer and the infant. But it’s not just about grabbing the newest or trendiest baby wearing device on the market. It has to be safe, comfortable for both the infant and the parent and will not hinder the baby’s development.
