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In this article we explore the numerous reasons why many parents find babywearing - carrying their infant in a sling or baby carrier - enormously helpful and convenient.

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Around the world, babies are carried by their mothers (and fathers, siblings and community members) throughout the day. These babies spend their days sleeping in a sling, which is usually made from a simple piece of cloth. In the UK and US, the practice of carrying a baby in a sling or soft baby carrier is known as 'baby wearing'. It's less common for parents in the UK to use a sling for their babies' daytime sleep but there are many reasons why this may be helpful.

What are the benefits?

Carrying your baby in a sling while they sleep may benefit them, while also allowing you to have your hands free. Little research has looked specifically at the benefits of carrying babies in a sling while they sleep. However research in related areas suggests that keeping close contact may have benefits for both mother and baby.

The advice for new parents is that your baby should sleep in the same room as you, day and night, until they are at least 6 months old. Studies have shown this to reduce the risk of SIDS. An English study, comparing 325 SIDS babies with 1300 control babies, found that 75% of the day-time SIDS deaths occurred while babies were alone in a room . Using a sling or baby carrier may make it easier for you to keep your baby close during the day.

Research looking at newborn babies has shown that close contact helps them to sleep more quietly and for longer. They can hear your heartbeat, feel your movements and be reassured that you are close, and will not feel the stress of being separated from you. When your baby starts to stir, you will be immediately aware of it if you are wearing them. You can pick up on their feeding cues more easily and breast milk production is improved when you keep your baby close to you. Some research shows that mothers who hold their babies feel calmer, and less anxious, and show less cortisol reaction to stress .

Parents who formula feed may find that wearing their baby helps them to bond and, for Dads and partners, baby wearing may allow you to take your baby for a walk, giving your partner some time to themselves.

You can find more information on how babies sleep here

Are there any disadvantages?

Sometimes parents are worried that babies who settle to sleep in a sling or baby carrier may be less likely to settle on their own.

Parental experience highlights that there is huge variability in babies' sleep preferences. While some babies settle better when they sleep in a cot alone, others find it difficult to settle if put down for sleep alone. Studies show that babies need to have positive sleep associations and that babies whose sleep environment is calm, and for whom going to sleep is pleasant, will develop better long-term sleeping habits. For some babies a calm and pleasant sleep environment involves being in contact with their mother or other caregiver - a typical practice in many countries. Some babies therefore prefer to settle by being soothed by their parents, and not by being left alone, so these babies fall asleep happily in a sling. Some slings are easy to take off if your baby falls asleep at night time and you want to take the sling off without disturbing them. Sometimes parents choose to wear their babies until they fall asleep and then lie them down.

Is baby wearing safe?

Babies born prematurely who are carried (in skin-to-skin contact) by their parents have improved temperature regulation, increased oxygen saturation and, over time, better growth. The World Health Organisation supports 24 hour a day baby wearing for premature babies, until they reach their full gestational age, especially where modern medical care is unavailable to parents. While most parents won't need to consider wearing their babies in direct skin contact, or 24/7, this should offer some reassurance that wearing a baby can be safe and beneficial, even during a long daytime nap.

Following some simple guidelines will help you to keep your baby safe in a sling.

As with any item of baby equipment, you may want to take some time to practise using a sling or baby carrier, perhaps with another adult watching you. Be sure to follow the manufacturers' instructions for safe use of any sling, carrier or other equipment. Carefully check any sling or baby carrier that you own, buy or borrow for wear and tear. Only undertake safe activities while your child is in the sling or baby carrier - no jogging, cycling or extreme sports!

Be careful in selecting your sling, carrier or other equipment. Some 'bag style' slings are shaped in a way that leads to the baby curling up in the sling, pressing their chin towards the chest.

Further safety information and details of TICKS are available on the School of Babywearing Website and at Which? (Consumers' Association).

For information about the different types of sling available, visit www.babywearing.co.uk, or find a sling meet, group or library or a Babywearing Consultant near you on their information pages.

For more detailed information about the use of slings for daytime sleep, click here.

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Around the world, babies are carried by their mothers (and fathers, siblings and community members) throughout the day. These babies spend their days sleeping in a sling, which is usually made from a simple piece of cloth. In the UK and US, the practice of carrying a baby in a sling or soft baby carrier is known as 'baby wearing'.

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The traditional art of babywearing is becoming popular again. And as a result so are baby carriers, wraps and slings.

Often seen as a convenient, hands-free and comfortable alternative to pushchairs, carriers, slings and wraps also offer calming close contact between infants and parents.

Undoubtedly one of the biggest names in the babywearing industry is the Swedish brand BabyBjörn. Making baby products since 1961 it launched Europe's first baby carrier back in 1973 and has been synonymous with babywearing ever since.

But in recent years the brand and its carriers have come under fire from parents, and some paediatricians, for not being safe.

The main accusation being that BabyBjörn carriers aren't ergonomic and can cause hip dysplasia.

Given the fact that many parents (over 40 million) have used or are using a BabyBjörn carrier, it is something we had to look into at MadeForMums.

So, for context, we spoke to BabyBjörn and for impartiality, we also spoke to the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), to find out whether BabyBjörn carriers are safe or not.

But first, what is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia (also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip, hip dislocation, congenital dislocation of the hip and loose hips) is a hereditary condition where the bones of the hip joint are not aligned correctly.

It prevents the hip joints from functioning properly and means they wear out much faster than normal joints.

While the condition runs in the family (like heart disease or cancer can) there is no guarantee a baby will develop it.

However, there are a few things that are thought to increase the risk of hip dysplasia according to IHDI:

If a baby is a first-born child

If a baby is born in cold weather

Wrapping the legs straight and together for long periods of time is known to cause hip dislocations

Genetics

A breech birth

Want to know more about hip dysplasia, we've got all the information here.

Can carriers cause hip dysplasia?

Here's the thing, according to Dr. Price, the director of the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) there is no evidence that points directly to carriers as a cause hip dysplasia.

"There are definitely mechanical forces that can help or hurt hip development when the sockets are soft and immature.

"However, with carriers that carry babies in the traditional flex-squat (Froggy or ergonomic M-position), or "jockey" position, hip dysplasia is almost unknown," explains Dr Price.

"Also, carrying infants with the hips in optimum positions - the flex-squat position - is associated with a very, very low occurrence of hip dysplasia."

What is the optimum seating position for a baby when in a carrier?

The IHDI recommends carrying with baby's hips in a natural position during the first six months of life, with the hips bent a little more than a right angle - 90+ degrees (see pic above) - and spread so each hip is spread 40 to 60 degrees.

That's the approximate spread when the baby is held with the legs spread around the mother's waist.

Small infants often keep their hips bent up more than 90 degrees and that's OK since it's a natural position for the hips, according to the IHDI.

Do BabyBjörn carriers meet the 'natural position' or ergonomic 'M' position?

According to the Swedish brand, it does.

Very aware of the criticism being levied against its carriers BabyBjörn says it has consulted medical experts and can confirm its carriers are ergonomic, do not cause hip dysplasia and are safe for babies and parents to use.

"BabyBjörn Baby carriers comply with relevant products standards in all markets where they are available which is around 55 countries today," says Annika Sander Löfmark, Head of Public Relations at BabyBjörn.

"In addition to this we test all carriers at different test institutes, in Sweden and other countries and we have our own test facilities. Pediatricians, orthopedist and midwifes, are consulted during the whole development process. The medical experts examine the product from an ergonomic and a safe development perspective.

"We are a 55 year old family company and our mission is to provide safe and practical products for babies and parents. We would never dream of selling something if there were doubts about the safety."

Where does all the criticism come from?

There have been a few paediatricians and mums who have sworn off using BabyBjörn carriers forever and even called them unsafe. The word crotch dangler is brandished by a few, with pictures of babies in carriers looking quite uncomfortable.

So it's easy to see why some parents may be concerned. And looking at the different types of carriers (like the BabyBjörn Original - top right) it does look like little one's legs are less at an angled position.

However, there are clearly carriers in the BabyBjörn collection that offer the Froggy or ergonomic M-position, like the We and One (top left) carriers.

The main thing to remember is that all BabyBjörn carriers are safe and won't cause hip dysplasia in babies. But we know some carriers and positions can offer different levels of support and what works for one family may not be the best option for another.

At MadeForMums we recommend every babywearer follows the T.I.C.K.S guidelines and if in any doubt you should contact the manufacturer of your carrier, plus it's always a great idea to visit your local sling library.

We've got more on safe babywearing right here...

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The traditional art of babywearing is becoming popular again. And as a result so are baby carriers, wraps and slings. Often seen as a convenient, hands-free and comfortable alternative to pushchairs, carriers, slings and wraps also offer calming close contact between infants and parents.

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Before we get into different types of slings and carriers, benefits of babywearing and so on, a bit of biology to start with.

Babies like to be carried and to be close to their caregivers. Put a baby in a cot and while she might be happy for a while, she will soon start fussing. Pick her up- happy again. Ever wondered why that happens? It's really quite simple.

Humans are mammals, right? We like to think about ourselves as unique and somewhat separated from animal kingdom, but truth is we are not so much different. Each mammalian species has a specific way of taking care of its young, so let's look at some broad categories and see where we fit. The following distinction is by Nils Bergman:
Cache mammals
These include the deer and the rabbit. Cache mammals are mature at birth. Their mothers hide their young in a safe place and return to them every twelve hours. Consistent with this behavior, the milk of cache animals is high in protein and fat. It sustains the young animals for a long time, because the babies are fed infrequently.
Follow mammals
The giraffe and cow are follow mammals and like others of this group, are also mature at birth and can follow their mothers wherever they go. Since the baby can be near the mother throughout the day and feed often, the milk of the follow mammal is lower in protein and fat than that of a cache mammal.
Nest mammals
These include the dog and the cat. Nest mammals are less mature than cache or follow mammals at birth. They need the nest for warmth and remain with other young from the litter. The mother returns to feed her young several times a day. The milk of nest mammals has less protein and fat than cache mammals. But it has more than follow mammals, who feed more frequently.
Carry mammals
This group includes the apes and marsupials, such as the kangaroo. The carry animals are the most immature at birth, need the warmth of the mother's body, and are carried constantly. Their milk has low levels of fat and protein, and they are fed often around the clock.

So where do humans belong? Humans are the most immature of all mammals at birth so that would put us in either nest mammals or carry mammals category. But, since human milk is very low in fat and protein and high in carbohydrates, it becomes clear that we are carry mammals.
What does it mean? It means that babies EXPECT to be carried, to be close to parents and to be touched often. It's hardwired and cannot be changed. If they are not carried or are separated from mother, they express their dissatisfaction by fussing or crying. Carrying your baby is the biological norm. As Meredith Small says in her book Our Babies Ourselves: During 99% of human history the pattern of infant eating, sleeping and contact was that human infants were carried all the time, probably slept with their mothers and fed frequently throughout the day.

What we currently see as the "normal"- baby sleeping separately from parents, placed in a pram and expected to eat every 2-3 hours, is really our very strange attempt to fool Mother Nature. Is it successful? I guess it depends how we define success.

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Before we get into different types of slings and carriers, benefits of babywearing and so on, a bit of biology to start with. Babies like to be carried and to be close to their caregivers. Put a baby in a cot and while she might be happy for a while, she will soon start fussing....

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Everything you need to know about slings and carriers

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What is a sling or a carrier?

A sling or carrier is what you strap your child into to carry them. It's not a new phenomenon and has actually been practised for centuries in different cultures.

There are lots of types of slings and carriers so it's worth finding out about the different styles, and even trying a few before you buy one. Read our article Which baby carrier or sling is best for me? to find out more.

Are there are any benefits to using a sling?

Many parents say it's practical, whatever your lifestyle. Try tidying up or getting lunch ready for your toddler with your newborn in a baby carrier or baby sling. You'll probably see what they mean.

It's worth saying that there is a lack of evidence around some of the claimed benefits of using slings and carriers. It really is a personal decision so don't worry too much if you find it's not for you and your baby.

For example, there isn't enough evidence yet to tell us whether carrying your baby in a sling or carrier increases bonding or not. Though we know some parents say slings do help them and their child to bond.

What are the risks of using slings?

Unfortunately, some babies have been injured and even died in baby slings and carriers. Non-fatal injuries were mainly caused by dropping, while deaths were caused by positional asphyxiation (Batra et al, 2015). (Positional asphyxiation is where the baby's body position blocks their breathing and they suffocate if this goes unnoticed.)

These risks have led to tighter safety standards for slings and carriers. Safety guidelines can also help you keep your baby safe.

If your baby was born with a low birth weight or has a medical condition, please talk to a healthcare professional before using a carrier or sling. Remember to be aware of your child and check them regularly, especially if your baby is under four months old.

So how can I keep my baby safe in their sling or carrier?

When it comes to using slings or carriers, it's very important to make sure you're following a few simple guidelines. You'll need to check the manufacturer's instructions, following their advice for whether the size, weight and age of your baby is right for the sling.

Also, before you use the sling or carrier, check for signs of wear and tear. Don't use it if you have any concerns.

When your baby's in the sling or carrier, check them often, making sure nothing is blocking their nose and mouth. Also make sure you read and follow the UK Sling Consortium's TICKS checklist:

(T)ight: Slings and carriers should be tight enough to hug your baby close. Any loose fabric will allow your baby to slump down in the carrier, which can hinder their breathing and pull on your back.

(I)n view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby's face just by glancing down. The fabric of a sling or carrier shouldn't close around your baby so you have to open it to check on them. In a cradle position your baby should face upwards, and not turned in towards your body.

(C)lose enough to kiss: Your baby's head should be as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head forward, you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.

(K)eep chin off the chest: A baby should never be curled so their chin is forced onto their chest as this can restrict their breathing. Make sure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby's chin.

(S)upported back: In an upright carrier, your sling should carry you baby comfortably close to you to support their back in its natural position. Their tummy and chest should be against you. Test this by putting your hand on your baby's back and pressing gently, they should not uncurl or move closer to you.

If your baby is in a cradle carry or pouch, their bottom must be in the deepest part of the sling. This way, the sling doesn't fold your baby and press their chin to their chest (UK Sling Consortium, 2015).

Baby positions for slings and carriers

Baby sling and carrier positions do sound a lot like yoga moves. The spread squat is a sling and carrier technique and it's also known as the jockey position or M-position.

The spread squat is where the baby has their thighs spread around the wearer's torso. The baby also has their hips bent so their knees are slightly higher than their buttocks, or at buttock level with the thighs supported.

We don't yet know whether any particular positions or carriers are good or bad for your baby's hips. Read more about hip dysplasia (hips growing abnormally)

Can I breastfeed in a sling?

It's definitely possible to breastfeed your baby in a sling but it does take a certain knack and practice. It's also important to be aware of the risks. Do make sure you check the manufacturer's instructions as some suggest you don't breastfeed in their slings. Here are our tips.

1. Make sure you check your baby can breathe easily and that there are no trip hazards for you.

2. Support your baby at all times.

3. Change your baby's position after feeding so that their head is facing up and is clear of the sling and your body.

4. You can do this vertically or in a more laidback position. While you will have to use your hands, it can give you more freedom to move. It also frees up one hand to help you get your latch sorted.
This page was last reviewed in February 2021
Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of our Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

For more information on the slings available, find your nearest NCT sling library. Our sling libraries have a wide variety of slings and carriers to try and hire so you can find which one works best for you.

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Everything you need to know about slings and carriers

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A sling or carrier is what you strap your child into to carry them. It's not a new phenomenon and has actually been practised for centuries in different cultures. There are lots of types of slings and carriers so it's worth finding out about the different styles, and even trying a few before you buy one.

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Different kinds of slings and carriers

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Types of baby slings or carriers

For all slings or carriers, make sure you check the manufacturer's instructions. Many manufacturers also offer demonstration videos on their websites.

Baby wraps

These slings are long pieces of fabric that wrap around you and your baby. You can choose from stretchy or woven varieties.

This type can be super-comfy. The fabric can spread across your whole back without digging in. This makes sure you use your back and shoulder muscles equally.

Although you must check that the sling is correctly tied each time, it can be left tied on when baby has been taken out, which saves some precious minutes.

Woven wraps can be used from birth to toddlerhood and beyond, and worn in lots of different ways. Stretchy wraps, on the other-hand, might not be supportive enough for larger babies or those over six months old.

One problem is that they can get sweaty. Stretchy wraps might get hot in warmer weather, as you need a few layers wrapped around to give baby enough support.

Learning how to tie the knots for woven wraps or use these wraps at all can be more difficult than using some other types of carrier.

Meh dais

They might sound like a type of cocktail but they are in fact Asian-style baby carriers. They are made of what is usually a square or rectangle of fabric with four straps. One set of straps is tied around the wearer's waist and the other over their shoulders. The fabric forms a pocket for the baby.

You have options as they can be worn on the front, hip and back, depending on your baby's age, weight and size.

The straps spread the weight over your shoulders and hips through the straps. This means they can be comfortable even when you're carrying older babies and toddlers.

Soft structured carriers (SSCs)

These are a cross between meh dais and a backpacker's rucksack. They have a structured waist and padded shoulder straps that can fasten with buckles or straps.

Many of them are good for beginners, as most are easy to use but some can be complicated.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions but the upper weight limit might allow you to carry more weight and therefore an older child. This can come in handy if you need to carry your little one when they're tired at the end of a long walk.

Ring slings and pouches

Ring slings and pouches are worn over one shoulder. Ring slings are pieces of cloth with two rings sewn at one end. The free end is looped through the rings, forming a pouch for the baby, with the tail of the fabric hanging down.

Pouches are made of one folded length of material that forms a pocket for the baby. They are worn over the body like a sash but this style means the weight of your baby might not be spread evenly.

Bag-style slings

Absolutely avoid bag-style slings. They are unsafe as they put babies into a dangerous position - bringing their chin to their chest - and cover a baby's face with fabric. Both of which put babies at risk of suffocating (CPSC, 2010).

Sling libraries

If you're staring at the list of options thinking you have no idea where to start, an NCT sling library is a good idea. Click on the following link to see whether you have a nearby NCT sling library.

Pop in and you can test a variety of slings and carriers. You can hire slings for a small charge and choose which one suits you best.

Non-NCT sling libraries may also offer a sling consultation service where you can take your own sling and ask for advice on how to use it. Just be aware that sling libraries and consultants do not have standardised accreditation and that their training will vary.

Baby sling safety

You'll want to keep a few safety considerations in mind when choosing a sling. A good place to start is the manufacturer's instructions. You'll need to follow their advice for whether the size, weight and age of your baby is right for the sling.

The UK Sling Consortium offer guidelines for safe use of slings and carriers. They recommend you go through a safety checklist called TICKS to keep your baby safe in their sling. The letters in the TICKS checklist stand for 'Tight', 'In view at all times', 'Close enough to kiss', 'Keep chin off the chest' and 'Support back. Read more in our article Everything you need to know about slings and carriers.

We don't yet know whether any particular positions or carriers are good or bad for your baby's hips. Read more about hip dysplasia (hips growing abnormally)

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of our Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

For more information on the slings available, find your nearest NCT sling library. Our sling libraries have a wide variety of slings and carriers to try and hire so you can find which one works best for you.

Anisfeld E, Casper V, Nozyce M, Cunningham N. (1990) Does infant carrying promote attachment? An experimental study of the effects of increased physical contact on the development of attachment. Child development. 61(5):1617-1627. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2245751 [Accessed 1st February 2018]

Babywearing International. (2015) Babywearing research - part 2: relevant research. [Accessed 30 August 2016].

Barr RG, McMullan SJ, Spiess H, Leduc DG, Yaremko J, Barfield R, Francoeur TE,

Hunziker UA. (1991) Carrying as colic "therapy": a randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics. 87(5):623-630. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2020506 [Accessed 1st February 2018]

Batra EK, Midgett JD, Moon RY. (2015) Hazards associated with sitting and carrying devices for children two years and younger. The Journal of pediatrics. 167(1):183-7.doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2015.03.044. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25917769 [Accessed 1st February 2018]

Fearon RP, Bakermans-Kranenburg MJ, van Ijzendoorn MH, Lapsley AM, Roisman GI.(2010). The significance of insecure attachment and disorganization in the development of children's externalizing behavior: a meta‐analytic study. Child development, 81(2):435-456. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.2009.01405.x. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20438450 [Accessed 1st February 2018]

St James-Roberts I, Hurry J, Bowyer J, Barr RG. (1995)Supplementary carrying compared with advice to increase responsive parenting as interventions to prevent persistent infant crying. Pediatrics. 95(3):381-8. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7862477 [Accessed 1st February 2018]

Walker AM, Menahem S. (1994) Intervention of supplementary carrying on normal baby crying patterns: a randomized study. J Dev Behav.Pediatr.15(3):174-178.

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Which baby carrier or sling is best for me?

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For all slings or carriers, make sure you check the manufacturer's instructions. Many manufacturers also offer demonstration videos on their websites. These slings are long pieces of fabric that wrap around you and your baby. You can choose from stretchy or woven varieties. This type can be super-comfy.

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Sling safety recommendations for parents

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A local mother called Libi runs a sling consultancy service.   She offers 1:1 home visits, and group sessions. Her price for a 1:1 home visit is £55 and lasts for around 

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A local mother called Libi runs a sling consultancy service.   She offers 1:1 home visits, and group sessions. Her price for a 1:1 home visit is £55 and lasts for around 

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Close to my Heart Slings, London, United Kingdom. 69 likes · 2 talking about this. My name is Libi and I'm a qualified Sling Consultant, offering private assistance for parents on carriers,...

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This lovely article is by my friend and client Lara Curry:

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Babyccino Kids: Daily tips, Children's products, Craft ideas, Recipes & More

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Yes, hello, it's me, the woman who is often seen breastfeeding in public - and often while on the go! And not just sometimes, but absolutely wherever and whenever the baby wants to be fed. I am not one to sit on a park bench completely covered up while I feed. Sometimes I use a scarf if it is cold or we are in a formal setting - like during a wedding - but in general I think breastfeeding is and should be the most natural thing in the world, so I don't feel anxious about doing it in public.

The super casual breastfeeding attitude didn't happen immediately, it happened out of necessity and with a bit of experience. When my first baby was a newborn, I used to plan a whole day out, but inevitably it would take me ten times longer than I'd planned to get anywhere because of all the breastfeeding 'pit stops.'

Then one day she began to cry those hungry cries! (The worst!) And as the crying got louder and louder, I became increasingly upset that I couldn't soothe her. When she looked up at me in her little baby carrier, so super hungry, and so desperate to be fed, how could I refuse? That sweet little hungry babe! So I just decided to slip my breast out of my dress and my nipple into her mouth. And instant relief! calm! happiness! milk induced bliss!... Ahhh. Relief for both of us! It was really the only option, especially since I was on a very busy and slightly grotty, London street, without a picnic bench or place to sit. What choice did I have?

That was the day I mastered the art of 'breastfeeding on the go,' and it was a total game changer for me. It was convenient, comfortable, and most of all, it was so very easy! I could breastfeed while walking, shopping, talking, or commuting on public transport with her in the baby carrier. Multi-tasking the whole time. Which meant I could enjoy feeding more, and also get more accomplished. It was so convenient that we continued this feeding until she was two years old, at which time I was pregnant so avoided carrying the heavy toddler around!

With my second child, I would feed him in the carrier while pushing my eldest in the buggy. We would get so much done, and often as he doze off for a nap, I would get to enjoy some one-on-one time with my daughter.

Often if we are somewhere remote, I will even just hold the baby and feed him in my arms while we are walking, without the need for a sling or carrier.

This idea to breastfeed on the go is by no means a case of 'a woman should do everything at once,' but rather the exact opposite. This is a way to make life that much smoother, easier, and to enjoy the joy of feeding while doing other things.

Breastfeeding 'on the go', however, isn't without some moments of comedy. Numerous times I have had a dad friend want to see 'the new baby' so they have moved the scarf or shawl aside to realise it wasn't just a newborn head they were staring at. Um, 'I am feeding them right now,' I would say.

A friend of mine with four children told me that the concept of breastfeeding in the carrier had never even occurred to her before I mentioned it, but it had transformed her life! She started doing it right away when the baby was a newborn so everyone gets used to it - her, her back, her milk supply, and her baby. Then she could easily enjoy time with her eldest three while having her hands free, and feeding the little one at the same time. Everyone was a winner. And I love that I was able to teach a mama of four this handy trick!

Feeding on the go is quite simple, but might require an additional helping hand at first (of your partner probably)! Of course you need to make sure the baby is totally secure in the carrier, and slightly adjust it so it is a bit lower than normal (normally you should be able to kiss your babies head, so a little bit lower than that). You want to make sure the baby has proper ways to breath, because safety first, of course! This video is helpful. And these illustrations shows a range of styles - some I have never tried but like the looks of.

Remember to wear something you can easily unbutton, move around, or pull down. You will become a pro in no time with dressing and breastfeeding and carrier wearing! And don't wear a playsuit! It makes going to the toilet impossible after the baby has fallen asleep in a milky dream! In colder months, I often wear a cardi or coat over the carrier and a scarf around my neck and upper chest so that it keeps things warmer too when your top is unbuttoned. But we have lots of great nursing clothing suggestions too.

Supposedly not everyone can breastfeed in a carrier even if they are happy to feed in public. Another friend of mine says she is unable to breastfeed in the carrier because her breasts are too big and it's too uncomfortable. I suppose it might also depend on the size of your torso, and maybe even your carrier (some are easier to adjust than others).

I would love to hear your thoughts about breastfeeding 'on the go.' Have you ever tried it? And what do you think of breastfeeding in public? Or while multi-tasking and walking, talking, shopping, etc?

Good luck however or wherever you feed your baby!

Lara x

And a few other interesting breastfeeding posts to shed light on different scenarios... Tandem Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding in Public, and also a helpful post about being on the go... Travelling Mamas without the Papas.

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Breastfeeding on the go -- while travelling, walking, shopping, and more

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Yes, hello, it's me, the woman who is often seen breastfeeding in public - and often while on the go! And not just sometimes, but absolutely wherever and whenever the baby wants to be fed. I am not one to sit on a park bench completely covered up while I feed.

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When a La Leche League Leader (volunteer breastfeeding counsellor) taught me how to breastfeed while wearing my baby in a sling, my world changed. I could actually get up and do things while breastfeeding! Amazing! After we have our babies we often have to concentrate so hard on breastfeeding. We have to sit up in a certain way or always be lying down. We have to use our IPhones as flash lights in the middle of the night to see and we pretty much put the rest of our world on hold while we breastfeed. So it's pretty darn amazing when you can master the art of breastfeeding while moving around! The picture above is of me taken last year, breastfeeding while doing some Christmas shopping. Not only was he happy in there breastfeeding but he was so relaxed he fell asleep. I did not have to sit in one of those stinky, loud annoying parent rooms and stop shopping. I could keep on truckin' while feeding my baby. In the picture and video I am wearing an Ergo but you can use a similar baby carrier (such as the Beco) in the same way. I will also be putting up a video very soon on how to breastfeed in a sling.

So what is so great about it besides getting some shopping done while you are breastfeeding? It can also be an excellent way to settle your baby. For some babies, if they are cranky and clearly would like to sleep or breastfeed but keep unlatching, all it takes is popping them in a baby carrier and trying to breastfeed them while moving. It can work like a charm. Babies love movement and this way you can get up and settle them while breastfeeding but still have your hands free. I have (among many other activities) cooked, cleaned, shopped, and brushed my other children's teeth while breastfeeding my baby in a baby carrier. Often times it's the magical solution! For more on settling cranky babies head HERE.

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Breastfeeding In Your Ergo...The Why And How With An Instructional Video From Meg | The Milk Meg

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Total: 4.8K 4.2K 651 1 0 Check out my book! It has a 5 star rating on Amazon! If you would like my newsletter, "Boobie Chronicles" sign up here! This way you will receive my breastfeeding articles right in your inbox when I post them.

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Before I get to the 10 reasons, here's a little bit about who I am, and what babywearing is. My name is Ciarán, also known as Ciarán the Babywearing Dad. I'm living in Ireland, a first time dad to a gorgeous little boy and an advocate for babywearing dads. Once I had been babywearing for a little while I discovered that there were not many proud babywearing dads in Ireland. I set up a Facebook page to promote babywearing and cloth nappies, and went to work letting dads know the benefits, that they are not alone and that there are wraps and carriers out there for dads. I have found that the main reason dads won't babywear is that the slings/carriers/wraps are too 'girly'. Mums are the main babywearers, so the majority of carriers are marketed at women but there are loads of 'manly' carriers available, many of which I have reviewed.

Babywearing can be defined as "carrying your baby in a soft carrier close to your body as you go about the business of your life", and this is one of the reasons why I babywear. Babywearing can be done using a wide array of carriers, broadly categorised as wraps, soft structured carriers (SSC's) and ring slings. Whatever you use be sure to use them correctly so it is safe and comfortable for baby and parent, and always follow the babywearing T.I.C.K.S. (Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, Supported back). With all that out of the way I hope you enjoy my 10 reasons for babywearing!

1. Bonding

I didn't start babywearing until my little man was six weeks old, and I found that until that point he preferred to be with his mum. Now, this may have been in my head but it always seemed like his mum could settle him better. Once I started babywearing however, he was always happy to be with me, I could settle him (or maybe the babywearing settled him!). He got to know my smell and the sound of my voice, he knew I was his dad and started to smile when he heard me and follow my voice around the room. Most parents know that skin to skin is great for bonding for mum and baby, but it's also great for dads. Babywearing allows you to get skin to skin hands free.

2. Gives Mum a break

This one is very important! We all need a break from time to time, mums and dads. Babywearing allows dads to go do pretty much anything with a contented baby. Even if it's just a walk with the dogs, both hands are free, and my baby has never lasted an entire walk in a carrier awake! I have taken my little man up hills, down to rivers, even just out to do the shopping while mum gets to have a lie in, a bath, just recharge, or do their own thing for a while.

3. Settles babies quickly

Nothing settles a baby faster than having them up close to you, all cuddled up snugly and feeling safe and loved. From teething to crankiness as soon as he sees a wrap or carrier coming he immediately cheers up, and once he's wrapped up tight it's a matter of minutes before he is calm and usually asleep! The upright position that babywearing provides relieves babies of colic and helps bring up wind.

4. Hands free hugs

This one is my favourite. I love hugging and cuddling my little boy but sometimes as a dad I also need to do stuff. Babywearing allows me to do all the things that need to be done and cuddle my boy, plus I get to sneak kisses and cuddles all the time! I regularly babywear shopping, feeding the dogs, hanging out the washing, anything really!

5. Sleepy dust

Everyone who babywears will testify that all wraps and carriers come with sleepy dust. Being warm, held tightly, feeling safe and secure and hearing your heartbeat, they can't help but fall asleep. This is especially useful at nap times, when little baby is fighting sleep (because you know they will miss something really important!), or when they are sick and need to get some rest.

6. Makes you stronger

Every time I wear my baby now, I am carrying around an extra 10kg of weight, it's like having a free gym. If I go out for a brisk walk I really feel it! With the right carriers the weight is spread nicely and doesn't dig in or pull in anyway, he can be practically weightless on my back and shoulders, but it will make you break a sweat in a power walk!

7. It lets you get stuff done

I honestly don't know how parents get anything done without babywearing! If he is any bit clingy or upset and needs to be constantly interacted with or placated, babywearing allows you to do this while doing the washing up/ making bottles/ washing nappies/ playing Xbox or Playstation/ fighting zombies, whatever needs doing!

8. Easy access everywhere

Ever tried to push a buggy around a really busy shop, or up a mountain, or have to push an empty buggy and carry your child? Not easy and very cumbersome. Babywearing eliminates all these problems. You can easily walk around the busiest of shops, do some hill walking, and if your kiddo is of walking age but gets tired, a lot of carriers/wraps pack up small and can be kept in a bag until needed.

9. Looks awesome

Some people think that babywearing isn't manly, or it looks girly. Is it girly or not manly to want to be a great dad?! There are lots of carriers and wraps that look awesome and are 'manly' or dad friendly. You don't have to wear flowers and rainbows if you don't want to (I would and have, don't mind it at all, just love having my baby close to me). There are loads of places that do custom carriers too, and you can get pretty much anything on them; I have a Batman one!

10. Feeding on the go

Most people know that mums can breastfeed while babywearing, but you can also bottle feed. I often have to take a bottle out while walking out shopping and feed the little man, and it's great. I still have one hand free and can continue shopping and he gets fed. Works great at home too when its nap time and he's fighting it. A small bottle with wrap cuddles and he's out like a light, then I can transfer him to the cot and I'm free to do whatever!

If you are interested in babywearing and don't know where to start or find all the options a bit overwhelming I would highly recommend going to your local sling meeting. These are great places to find like-minded parents and to get really good advice on how to use slings and carriers correctly. You can also find certified babywearing consultants who can help you learn to use the various carriers so you can find the ones that are right for you. There are sling libraries where you can rent carriers before you buy, which is great as some of them can be very expensive and you might find that you didn't like that particular one at all! If you have any babywearing questions, don't hesitate to contact me, I'm always happy to help or point you in the right direction.

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10 Reasons for Dads to Babywear - Attachment Parenting UK

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Before I get to the 10 reasons, here's a little bit about who I am, and what babywearing is. My name is Ciarán, also known as Ciarán the Babywearing Dad. I'm living in Ireland, a first time dad to a gorgeous little boy and an advocate for babywearing dads.

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WHY I LOVE MY SLING:

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An NCT article on baby-wearing (using a baby carrier): 

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An NCT article on baby-wearing (using a baby carrier): 

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Here are two diagrams which show how the original Baby Bjorn sling (1st diagram) puts pressure on a baby’s hips:

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Here are two diagrams which show how the original Baby Bjorn sling (1st diagram) puts pressure on a baby’s hips:

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HanaBaby is a UK manufacturer of bamboo baby wraps, organic cotton buckle carriers and swaddle pods.

Registered company address (not for returns):
Hanababy Ltd. Kemp House,
152 -160 City Road,
London EC1V 2NX.

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Hana Baby Wraps - Bamboo Baby Wraps, Baby Carriers & Swaddle Pods

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HanaBaby is a UK manufacturer of bamboo baby wraps, organic cotton buckle carriers and swaddle pods. Registered company address (not for returns): Hanababy Ltd. Kemp House, 152 -160 City Road, London EC1V 2NX.

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Boba Wrap - Gray The Boba Wrap baby carrier is the ideal solution for babies from birth, including preemies. The incredibly soft material includes a 5% spandex content, making the wrap easy to use for beginner and advanced babywearers alike. Simply tie the wrap snug against your body and it will ...

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The Papoozle baby carrier will allow you to give your baby cuddles while your hands are free.

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Baby Slings | Baby Carrier Wraps | Kari Me

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Kari Me, award winning baby carriers wraps. Our baby carrier slings and baby wraps are made in the UK and are comfortable, safe and secure for both newborn baby, infants and carer.

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The Ergo needs an insert for newborns, but parents absolutely love it:

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The Ergo needs an insert for newborns, but parents absolutely love it:

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The Ergobaby 360:

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ergobaby baby carrier collection 360 (5.5 - 15 kg)

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Ergobaby baby carrier collection 360 (5.5 - 15 kg), Dusty Blue

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FOUR ERGONOMIC POSITIONS The Four Position 360 Baby Carrier provides four comfortable and ergonomic ways to wear baby: Front-Inward, Front-Outward, Hip and Back carry positions. For the first time, Ergobaby gives parents the option of four comfortable and ergonomic ways to wear baby: Front-Inward...

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A more breathable version of an Ergobaby carrier:

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A more breathable version of an Ergobaby carrier:

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Ergobaby 360 Baby Carrier All Carry Positions: Cool Air Mesh - Carbon Grey

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Cool & breathable, the 360 Cool Air Mesh - Carbon Grey offers every carry position to get out and about with baby, from summer hikes to leisurely strolls.

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Caboo NCT - Multi Position Baby Carrier | Close Parent | Award winning pop-in reusable cloth nappy and caboo baby slings carriers

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Caboo, Caboo Lite, Lite, Baby wearing, Baby Carrying, Frog legged position, M position, Why carry when you can Caboo?, Newborn baby carrying, Baby carriers, baby slings, caboo carrier, caboo baby carrier, caboo soft carrier, soft baby carrier