Keep your baby’s airway clear
Young babies can suffocate in a carrier if their face presses into fabric or your body, or their chin curls onto their chest. The risk is highest under 4 months, and for babies born early, with low birth weight, or with a cold. Every time you carry:
- Face visible, not covered by fabric or pressed against you.
- Chin off the chest, so the airway stays open.
- Close enough to kiss: your baby’s head sits high on your chest.
- Check often, especially if your baby falls asleep.
Talk to your pediatrician before carrying a baby who was born early or has breathing problems.
Wrap or buckle carrier?
| Stretchy wrap | Buckle carrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | The first months, snug and soft | Newborn to toddler, quick on and off |
| Learning curve | Takes practice to tie | Clip and adjust |
| Weight limit | Lower (Solly: 25 lb) | Higher (Ergobaby Omni Classic: 45 lb) |
| Hip position | The hip-dysplasia institute says wraps generally support healthy hips | Look for a wide seat that supports the thighs |
Frequently asked questions
When can I start using a carrier?
From the maker’s newborn minimum: 7 lb for the Ergobaby and BabyBjörn, 8 lb for the Infantino and Solly, always facing in. Take extra care under 4 months.
When can my baby face out?
Only once your baby has strong, steady head control, usually around 5 months. Each carrier sets its own limit: about 30 lb on the Ergobaby, 26 lb on the BabyBjörn. Ergobaby says not to let a baby sleep facing out.
Are carriers safe for newborns?
They can be, used as directed. The AAP says to keep your baby’s neck straight, chin off the chest and face visible, and to check often that nothing blocks the mouth and nose.