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How to choose a baby carrier



What to look for when choosing a baby carrier

Baby carriers (also endearingly dubbed baby-wearing) have become extremely popular among parents nowadays.

Combining hands free carrying with safety and convenience, front and back carriers are becoming a great baby accessory amongst the Hollywood crowd and everyday people alike.

However, there have arisen some safety issues regarding using baby carriers — forward facing carriers especially — that have made some parents think twice about this baby accessory convenience.

Nevertheless, if you still desire the convenience of baby-wearing, yet are concerned about the safety of your child, here are some things to consider before making such an important decision.

Instructions

Step 1

Bring baby along

When purchasing a baby carrier, always bring your baby along to match the carrier to his size.

In addition to the size, ensure that the carrier supports his back, and that the leg openings are small enough so he can not slip through.

Step 2

The condition of the carrier

The condition of the baby carrier is just as important as finding the right size for your infant.

Therefore, look for baby carriers that are made from sturdy materials, have working components, are free from rips and tears in the fasteners and seams, and that do not have loose snaps or buttons.

Step 3

Comfort

Comfort is another vital factor to choosing the right baby carrier for you and your baby.

For instance, when purchasing a backpack baby carrier, be sure that the aluminium frame is padded for your baby’s comfort.

In addition, be sure that the baby carrier (front or back) fits you comfortably, possesses straps that can be adjusted to your comfort level, and leg openings that are edged in comfy fabric protecting your child’s thighs and legs from chaffing..

Step 4

Age and weight restrictions

As a norm, most front facing carriers are manufactured to safely carry babies from infancy to three months of age.

Whatever you do, always check the age and weight restrictions provided by the manufacturer and abide by them.

Step 5

Safety

While most retail chains stay abreast of what products have been recalled, do not hesitate to check with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Website at www.cpsc.gov to ensure the baby carrier you are looking to purchase has not been recalled.

Things Needed
• Common sense
• Safety tips
• Your baby
Tips & Warnings
• Always bend at the knees instead of the waist when using a backpack carrier. This will prevent your baby from tipping out of the carrier or hurting your back.
• Ensure that you use the restraining straps on a baby back carrier at all times. Some children (usually five months of age and older) become restless, and will brace their feet against the frame. This results in a change of weight distribution and may cause injury to your child and your back.
• Safety issues have arisen concerning infant deaths due to “positional asphyxia” caused by placing an infant in a sling-like baby carrier «in a head-forward position that can cause the airway to close», or when carrying an infant in a face forward traditional carriers. Therefore, parents are admonished to: 1.) Always ensure there is nothing around the baby’s nose and mouth, 2.) Ensure that they are given ample room to extend their necks, 3.) Ensure that the baby’s position is comfortable and does not restrict his movement, and 4.) Check the baby frequently to ensure that they are comfortable, and that nothing is blocking their airway.

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