How to Carry a Baby in a Sling

Carrying your baby in a sling has many benefits. It allows you move around freely, without the worry of maneuvring steps, narrow spaces and crowds of people with a stroller. A sling is also convenient for breastfeeding in public as it helps to protect a mom's modesty and creates a barrier between baby and potential distractions. When used correctly, a baby sling can make life a whole lot easier and actually be safer than carrying your infant in your arms. Before you try it, however, make sure you know exactly how it should be worn and what you need to be aware of to ensure your baby is safe and comfortable at all times.

Things You'll Need

  • Baby sling

Instructions

    • 1

      Test lots of different slings as many styles are available and what is right for another parent might not work for you. Think about the size of the sling and how comfortable it is on your body. Your height, shoulder width and bust size are factors that will affect the style of sling you choose. Ensure the sling you choose can be easily adjusted.

    • 2

      Read the instructions provided with your sling and practice putting it on, adjusting it and taking it off. Place a large stuffed toy inside the sling to get used to carrying something around. Move in different ways such as bending down, leaning to the side and stretching, to determine how each motion affects the stuffed toy. Anticipate every circumstance to keep your baby's safety your primary concern.

    • 3

      Practice carrying your infant in the sling indoors several times before venturing outside. Do this when you and your baby are both relaxed and happy. Ask your partner or a friend to keep an eye on you until you become confident using the sling. This person should stay close to you while you are carrying your baby in the sling and be ready to point out any problems or potential dangers.

    • 4

      Ensure your baby has an open airway and can breathe at all times when she is in the sling. Check regularly that her chin is not curled downward toward her chest, which can restrict her breathing. Newborn infants do not have sufficient muscle control to keep the airways open. Keep the fabric of the sling away from your baby's head and face as this makes her breathe in the same air and can be dangerous. Check her regularly to ensure she has good airflow. Ensure your baby is well supported in the sling, whatever position she is in.

    • 5

      Position your baby in the most appropriate way for his age and weight. A newborn baby may be placed in the sling diagonally across your body as he would lie if you were cradling him in your arms, or held vertically against your body -- with his head resting just above your chest and his feet curled beneath him. Older infants (more than 3 months) may be carried facing outward or sitting astride one of your hips. Many types of slings are suitable from birth until 2 years or older, depending on the weight of the infant.

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