Are you on a quest to find the best baby carriers for bad back?
Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of models.
In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.
- Product Details (Including advantages and disadvantages)
- Benefits of Baby Carrier
- Baby Carrier for Bad Back Buyer’s Guide
- Types of Baby Carriers
- Tips of Using a Baby Carrier
- Safety Tips
- Babywearing Tips for Those with High Back Pain
- …
I will also answer some common questions.
- What is a Baby Carrier?
- Why Use a Baby Carrier?
- How to Wear a Baby Carrier if You Have Back Pain?
- When Should I Change the Carry Position?
- Are Baby Wraps Safe?
- When Will My Baby be Ready for a Front or Outward Facing Carrying Position?
- At What Age am I Able to Put My Child in a Back Carry Position?
- …
Without further ado, let’s begin!
It is no secret that back pain can be one of the most commonly occurring conditions for mothers carrying their young children for most of the day. While there are many manufacturers will proudly claim their baby carriers can keep strain off the back, many of them can actually make matters worse.
Nevertheless, there are several specially designed carriers and slings that allow the pressure from the baby to be distributed across the back and shoulders. This allows many more muscle groups from across the body including the strong legs and core muscles to support the additional weight.
While there is endless beauty and health benefits for both mothers and babies being so close, carrying a baby in your hands can become very tiring on the shoulders and back. The good news is the right type of baby carrier can help you save your back while toting your tiny tot.
The selection should be made with plenty of information to ensure you select the best bad back baby carrier for your specific body type and purpose. The whole point is to make your life easier not increase the aggravation.
What is a Baby Carrier?
THe baby carrier is a specially designed fabric or frame used to carry the baby with you wherever you go. This could be in the form of a backpack or sling, worn either in the front or back, sometimes both. The whole point is to free up the hands so that you can get on with your mommy things and still hold your youngster close.
There is a plethora of designs, styles and features to choose from. Therefore, it is a good idea to know what you are looking for in a baby carrier before making the best selection for you. The ideal carrier will be suitably sized to support your baby during the rapid growth they experience in their first couple of years.
Why Use a Baby Carrier?
There are several important benefits for a baby being carried in this way. Proponents of baby wearing say that babies that are kept close to their mother are calmer and feel stressed much less. This is a point that pediatricians also agree upon.
As a matter of fact, being close to the mother is very important for the early social and emotional development of the baby. It also provides the child with an important introduction to this strange new world from the safe proximity to the mother. When safe and secure a child will more easily open up and take in as much from their surroundings as possible.
As for the parent, the benefits of a free set of hands can allow you to catch up on all the important to dos your day may include. A new baby certainly takes a lot of attention, and a little extra help can be a major benefit. The baby carrier is also a great way to get to know your baby and build a strong bond with them. This such a beneficial point that daddies everywhere are jumping on the baby-wearing trend to make a good connection with their juvenile offspring.
Baby-wearing is a great option for the social, emotional and physical health of the child and the apnet too. A baby carrier should never cause so much discomfort that your attempt to take pain medication to ease the suffering. If you have acquired a good option with a suitable design and quality materials, your baby will sit snugly and comfortably with their weight evenly distributed across the back, shoulders, hips and waist.
Benefits of Baby Carrier
- Carried babies are better entertained and positive.
- Close interactions optimizes milk production and breast feeding.
- A great form of exercise!
- Promotes better speech recognition and patterns.
- Convenient option
- Safe
- Promotes better infant health
Comparison Table
In order to help mothers and father make the best decision possible on the baby carrier for their specific needs, we reviewed some of the best carriers on the market. These were evaluated in terms of durability, ease of use, durability, versatility and longevity.
Each of these baby carriers keeps your baby close to you and your center of gravity, this causes minimal strain on your extremities and keeps muscles properly balanced as opposed to cramping up.
Best Baby Carriers for Bad Back
- Boba Wrap, Grey, 0-18 Months
- Ergobaby 360 All Carry Positions Award-Winning Cool Mesh Ergonomic Baby Carrier
- Infantino Sash Wrap and Tie Baby Carrier
- Baby Tula Ergonomic Carrier
- BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Original
- Boba 4G Carrier, Dusk, 0- 48 Months
- Baby K’tan Original Baby Carrier
- Moby Wrap Baby Carrier for Newborns + Toddlers Soft Baby Sling Baby Wrap
- Lillebaby The Complete Airflow 360° Ergonomic Six-Position Baby & Child Carrier
- Beco Gemini Baby Carrier
1. Boba Wrap, Grey, 0-18 Months – Best Seller
- Simple, no-guess tying instructions and just one size make this wrap...
- Stretchy and SOFT, machine washable fabric that will keep your baby...
- ERGONOMIC seat for baby, ergonomic weight distribution for mom and...
- EASY to tie and easy to breastfeed in. It even acts as a privacy...
- Bond with your little one while getting back into the swing of things:...
This stretchy baby carrier has become tremendously popular and propelled its designers at Boba into the forefront of the industry. The intention is to keep babies closer to their mothers, simplifying bonding and breastfeeding and making it easy to ensure that a youngster develops in a healthy way. The original Boba Wrap is suitable for babies anywhere from newborn up to 35 pounds. It’s a one-size-fits-all carrier that’s entirely machine washable.
The Boba Wrap just might be your constant companion between birth and the age of 18 months. The Boba Baby Wrap is a modern take on classic traditional wraps, keeping your baby secure without any buckles, straps, or snaps to worry about. Your baby is held snug and close to your body, your heartbeat, and your voice as you go about your daily routine. It makes discreet breastfeeding a breeze, and the quality easy-to-clean fabric is extra stretchy.
- Simplicity
- Comfort
- Easy cleaning process
- May not be as convenient for full-figured moms
- Can become less comfortable in high temperatures
2. Ergobaby 360 All Carry Positions Award-Winning Cool Mesh Ergonomic Baby Carrier – Editors’ Choice & Professional’s Choice
- Breathable, lightweight all-mesh carrier
- All carry positions, including ergonomic, forward facing option
- Lumbar support for extra back comfort as your baby grows
Sometimes “ergonomics” is just a marketing buzzword that implies nothing about the design of a product. At other times, it means a designer has sweated buckets over making a product as comfortable and healthy to use as possible, and it’s this latter meaning that applies to the Four Positions 360 carrier. One of the best baby carriers on the market, the 360 has a structured bucket seat, a weight-supporting waistband, and cushioned shoulder straps. The waistband is fully adjustable so that it can be worn comfortably by a wide range of body types. It can also be used effortlessly in a forward-facing configuration.
In order to make it suitable for a newborn, you need to add the Ergobaby Infant Insert. This ensures that your baby is positioned healthily with their knees over their hips and their spine properly supported in a natural curve. You can easily adjust the seat settings with toggle buttons, and the right adjustments make the carrier perfectly suited to a range of different ages and sizes. There’s an extendable panel that can be rolled down when your baby is facing out or pulled upward when you’re carrying your passenger face-inward. The panel makes sure your baby gets ideal support for the head, neck, and back no matter how you choose to carry.
- It’s effective in multiple configurations.
- It’s comfortable for both infants and mothers.
- The ErgoBaby Infant Insert is included with the carrier.
- Quality is guaranteed for two full years.
- Weight distribution and fit are excellent when adjusted properly.
- It’s easy to adjust and use.
- The carrier lacks pockets or storage spaces.
- The velcro closures could be annoying.
- This carrier is not designed for discreet nursing.
3. Infantino Sash Wrap and Tie Baby Carrier – Best Budget Baby Carrier
- Carry children from 8-36 pound / 3.6-16.3 kgs
- 3 ways to carry: facing-in, hip-hugger and backpack
- Includes detachable hood for sun protection and sleepy time
- Buckle-free wrap and tie design
- Machine washable.Extra wide padded straps
The Sash Wrap carrier from Infantino is a high-quality product that’s both comfortable and wonderfully affordable. The idea is to facilitate the traditional form of baby-carrying known as Mei Tai. The Sash Wrap uses no buckles or straps and can be tied in a variety of ways to accommodate the unique shape of your body. The Sash Wrap can be used in three different carrying positions: backpack, facing-in, and hip-hugger. The sash delivers outstanding ergonomic support for toddlers and comes with a detachable hood. This can be used to protect a child from sun, rain, or wind. It also makes an ideal cover for use during discreet nursing.
Infantino’s Sash Wrap is a simple, reliable solution for the problem of carrying your baby. All you need to do is secure the wrap with a double knot and take off. One great advantage is that you can adjust the Sash Wrap in either a standing or a sitting position, usually without needing to remove your child first. The wrap is provided with a comprehensive step-by-step manual and instructional videos demonstrating how the Sash Wrap should be tied for each carrying position. There are also sewn-in details on the wrap itself that provide handy anytime directions, so you can always be sure that your child is carried safely.
- The Sash is easy to wear and adjust.
- It folds up into a very compact package for storage and carrying.
- It works equally well for moms of all shapes and sizes, petite to plus size.
- The provided instructions make it easy to learn.
- The Sash material is a little too good at picking up lint and hair.
4. Baby Tula Ergonomic Carrier
As its name suggests, the latest carrier from Tula is designed with great emphasis on providing healthy support for your baby. Versatility is also a key feature here. The primary goal of the Tula Carrier is to keep your child close to your own center of gravity. This keeps weight distributed evenly between your shoulders and hips in order to keep your movements balanced and healthy while walking. The seated position it offers for your baby encourages greater comfort, especially when your child is in the carrier for extended periods of time. The carrier’s waist belt includes clips and buckles you can use to adjust it so it fits you snugly. There’s enough range in the belts to make this carrier suitable for mothers of every shape and height. This also makes it a great tandem carrier suitable for partners who have different physiques and want to share baby-carrying duty without buying two carriers.
The Tula Ergonomic Carrier is built for kids who weigh between 15 and 45 pounds – roughly the one to five-year age range. The generous body panel supporting the child’s spine, head, and neck is both longer and wider than usual. This extra support is very welcome for children’s still-developing bodies. The Tula carrier places the child in the healthy, natural M-position with plenty of support for both the thighs and back. This position reduces fatigue and allows children to sit longer without growing uncomfortable.
The Tula Carrier is made entirely of all-natural cotton. It’s breathable, absorbent, easy to clean, and most importantly non-reactive when exposed to sensitive children’s skin.
- Highly adjustable
- Tons of small but welcome accessories
- Extra comfortable
- Extra durable
- Works with multiple positions
- Needs frequent cleaning
- Requires time and effort to learn
5. BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Original
- Provides essential closeness and contact to help you bond with your...
- Two safe and ergonomic carrying positions: baby facing-in and baby...
- Perfect for newborns - no infant insert needed. From birth to...
- Developed with pediatricians to give the proper support for baby's...
- Small, safe and easy to use - fits perfectly and securely with only a...
This tremendously popular baby carrier has earned top marks for its generous shoulder straps and back support. It’s possible to adjust the load and stay in close contact with your child over longer periods without developing uncomfortable pressure points. Transferring weight from your shoulders to your hips minimizes the amount of pressure you experience.
The BabyBjorn uses completely safe and non-reactive materials so that children are kept completely safe – even if they chew on the carrier. This carrier is perfect for younger children in the range between birth and 15 months. The BabyBjorn works for these smaller infants without any extra “infant insert,” earning this carrier top marks for convenience. Children’s arms and legs are left free to move, encouraging the development of muscles, balance, and motor control.
The carrier is fully adjustable from the front, making it easy to get in and out of. The carefully-designed latches can be released with one hand. The entire front is also removable, making it easy to extract a sleeping child without disturbing them.
- Easy-access clasps for simple operation
- Extremely safe
- Good head support for young (<3 months) babies
- Flexible enough to take newborns all the way to 15 months
- Less comfortable with older, heavier children
- No position variations – works for front-carry only
6. Boba 4G Carrier, Dusk, 0- 48 Months
- Integrated infant insert to support the littlest little ones
- The perfect fit for both front and back carry
- Removable foot straps and sleeping hood customize the ride
- Purse strap holders - you're welcome, moms
- Pockets in all the right places
The flexible structure of the Boba 4G designed to adapt and allow you to enjoy the adventure freely is the reason why it is on this list of best baby carriers. It is durable and moves with your child from when he or she is an infant through toddlerhood. It features 2 ergonomic carry positions that support the body of the baby.
It is made of materials free from potentially dangerous dyes or substances and will not harm your child if he or she chews or bites on it. It has multiple pockets that are perfect for storing your keys, credit cards, phones, etc. while on the move. It even has foot straps for holding the baby’s leg and provide relaxation and support. The baby’s leg can be easily fatigued after sitting for long hours.
- Sturdy and strong
- Easily adjustable, which makes it great for any type of parent
- It offers great comfort for parents
- It has the ability to bring in the baby closer by simply pulling the extra straps for easier breastfeeding
- It gets dirty rather quickly
- Limited baby positioning
- Somewhat difficult to learn how to use
7. Baby K’tan Original Baby Carrier
- HANDS FREE BABYWEARING: Keep newborn babies, preemies and infants...
- SIMPLE DESIGN: The Baby K'tan baby wrap is quick and easy to wear - no...
- COMPLETE COMFORT: Made from 100% cotton, our baby carrier allows even...
- SAFE AND SECURE: Our infant holder’s unique double loop design and...
- 5 POSITIONS: Our infant carrier wrap grows with your child – choose...
The main appeal of the Baby K’tan is the fact that it acts like a wrap without too much wrapping. The carrier earns some style points because of this, but more importantly it provides the baby with efficient support for his or her back, shoulders, and head.
It features a unique double-loop design that offers additional security for carrying your baby. The security assurance can give you peace of mind with the knowledge that the safety of your child is ensured. The double-loop also provides cover while nursing, which means that you won’t have to carry a shawl. The ‘double loop’ design also ensures that weight is distributed ergonomically.
It is light and tight like a sling but still quite supportive like a structured carrier. It is made of 100% natural cotton, which ensures that the sensitive skin of your baby does not get allergic reactions. The materials have been tested thoroughly for harmful dyes and chemicals. The strong metal and plastic structure ensures the safety of your baby. It comes in a variety of colors and fabrics that are machine washable and dryer safe, which makes it easy to maintain and care for them.
- Easy to wear and adjust
- Offers a wide range of versatility
- Comfortable and soft for your baby
- Lacks the comfortability of other wraps
- Breathability problems
- It can hurt the shoulder if you don’t make the right adjustments
- It can be challenging to position your baby while you breastfeed
8. Moby Wrap Baby Carrier for Newborns + Toddlers Soft Baby Sling Baby Wrap
- BABY WRAP THAT PROMOTES BONDING: Baby-wearing nurtures a powerful bond...
- COMFORTABLE BABY CARRIER WRAP: A parent-favorite for its comfort,...
- VERSATILE: Measuring 18ft, this wrap for baby grows with your little...
- BABYWEARING MADE SIMPLE: This baby carrying wrap is great for parents...
- EASY TO USE: This wrap baby carrier comes with an easy to follow...
The Moby Wrap is a parent-favorite and it is not hard to see why. It is designed to carry babies weighing between 8 and 35 pounds and offers incredible style, comfort, and adaptability. It is made from a very soft natural cotton fabric and provides a secure and safe place for the baby to bond with his or her family. The Moby Wrap allows you to spread its fabric fully across your shoulders to ensure maximum comfort, which means that the baby’s weight is distributed evenly over the whole back and shoulders for total ergonomic support.
As the Wrap descends from the shoulder it conforms to the baby and offers knee to knee support in the ideal baby wearing position. It adjusts and allows for the optimal fit every time your wrap it around you, which means that it easily grows with your child.
- Very comfortable
- The 2 side panels secure the baby’s head very well against your chest
- It makes a crying baby to go to sleep instantly
- Multiple fabric panels produce an incredibly warm environment
- Lengthy and cumbersome
9. Lillebaby The Complete Airflow 360° Ergonomic Six-Position Baby & Child Carrier
- Six Positions: The LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons baby carrier...
- Versatile Carrying: LÍLLÉbaby Complete Baby Carrier provides comfort...
- Hands Free Comfort: When on the go, LÍLLÉbaby's baby carriers and...
- Natural Bond: LÍLLÉbaby makes baby products that bring functional...
- For LÍLLÉBABY: Innovation is always top of mind; We won’t rest...
One of the best rated baby carriers is the 360° Ergonomic Baby and Child Carrier. It is incredibly capable and comfortable. It is properly ventilated to ensure a continuous flow of air and is ideal for sport parents on the move. It features a breathable 3D mesh that ensures total air circulation so that your baby gets fresh air constantly. It has 6 carry positions and it does not require any baby inserts.
It has shoulder straps that offer sufficient cushion and has a broad waistband. Pads ensure comfort since the strain on the lower back and shoulders is reduced. It even has 2 large sized pockets for putting baby accessories, wallets, phones, and the removable hood.
It is suitable for newborns weighing between 7 and 45 pounds can be carried with “X” or backpack straps.
- It comes with instructional videos and a how-to instruction manual for visual demonstration
- It incorporates all carrying positions without the need for an infant insert
- It fits the size and development of your child
- The fabric is no so great
- The straps sometimes rub your arms while walking while the leg area doesn’t have cushioning, which causes discomfort.
10. Beco Gemini Baby Carrier
- HAPPY BABY, HAPPY PARENTS - Beco brings you only the very best in baby...
- FOR YOUNG AND "OLD" - When you buy Beco, you're buying for years to...
- CLOUD 9 - With superior padding in our adjustable straps (23" - 45")...
- IT'S YOUR PREROGATIVE - From front facing out and facing in, to hip,...
- GUARANTEED - With so many options to chose from, we know that picking...
The Gemini Performance Baby Carrier is versatile and soft structured with 4 different carrying positions. It is incredibly comfortable for you and the baby. It is made of high quality tested and hazard free materials, which ensure that it never harms your baby if he or she chews on it.
It comes with a visual recording and a written manual that gives step-by-step guidance on correct use to prevent accidents and ensure that you utilize the features completely. All products that Beco sells come with a lifetime guarantee and buyers will be refunded if the baby carrier is unable to meet their expectations.
The adjustable straps have superior padding that ensures that you have no back pain, and shoulder or hip related problems. The extra padding by the leg holes ensure that the baby sits pretty in comfort and style regardless of how you carry. Beco provides a wide range of comfortable carry options and it will be up to you to choose the most suitable one.
- An infant insert is not needed to support newborns
- The baby’s spine, back, head, and neck are protected in any position, which makes carrying worry-free
- Placing the baby inside and getting him or her off is easy enough
- It is very comfortable
- It lacks side pockets to provide storage on the move
- The Beco carrier has less padding on its shoulder straps
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Baby Carriers for Bad Back
Do you have a bad back and need a baby carrier that won’t make your condition worse? There are several types of baby carriers that can be used even if you have problems with your back. As you search for options, there are certain considerations to keep in mind.
Your Child’s Age
The age of your child can make a difference in the type of baby carrier you need. Different styles are best at different ages. For a newborn, a sling or wrap is best. These may be used until your child weighs about 20 pounds. After that, it is best to switch to a soft-sided carrier. These models aren’t suitable to use with an infant but work very well with a child who is a few months to a year or so old.
Who is Using The Carrier
The type of baby carrier that best suits you may be different than the one your friend uses. You’ll want a carrier that is comfortable and which doesn’t cause any pain in your lower back. There are many different styles of baby carriers and you should look for one that works well with your body shape and size. It is very important that the carrier is comfortable for anyone using it. Quite often, parents share one baby carrier. It is a good idea for anyone who will be using the carrier to try it on before purchase. Some models can be adjusted for different fits which is handy if more than one person is using the carrier.
Your Physical Condition
If you already have back issues, you don’t want a carrier that can make the condition worse. Depending on the type of medical condition you have, using a baby carrier may not be possible. Check with your healthcare provider to see if you can safely use a baby carrier. The best model, if you have back problems, is a carrier that allows you to carry the baby higher on your back, preferably above your center of gravity. You should also look for a baby carrier that evenly distributes the baby’s weight across your entire back and shoulders. This will help reduce the stress and strain on your back.
Position
If you suffer from back problems, you’ll want to search for a baby carrier that will allow you to modify the carrying position. You probably want to choose a carrier that takes the baby’s weight off your lower back. A carrier that allows you to carry the baby in the front may prove to be the best choice.
Types of Baby Carriers
There are five typical baby carrier models. These are the wrap, ring slings, baby pouches or pouch slings, mei-tai, backpack and soft-structured carriers. Each of these has certain features and characteristics. You’ll most likely need to try each one to find the model that is most comfortable for you.
This type of baby carrier is used for children who are newborn up to three years of age. The carrier can handle up to 45 pounds. A piece of fabric is slipped through two rings to make a sling. The ring sling can be adjusted for your baby’s size and it can be repositioned to make it more comfortable. This is a great baby carrier if you are breastfeeding since the baby can be easily moved so they can eat. The sling fits over one shoulder which can become uncomfortable if the sling is worn for extended periods of time.
This type of baby carrier is used for newborns and children up to three years of age. They can carry up to 35 pounds and are very simple to use. This type of carrier is perfect for a new mother or someone who has never used a baby carrier. This type of carrier is really easy to use. You simply put on the pouch and put your baby inside. They are lightweight and don’t take up much room. This makes them perfect for storing in a diaper bag or in your purse. There is no ring or clasp, so this type of carrier is very comfortable.
This type of baby carrier is used for children who are newborn up to four years of age. The carrier can handle up to 45 pounds. Mei-tai carriers feature four straps that are attached to the carrier’s body. The straps are able to get tied into a number of configurations, giving you the freedom to wear your baby on your hip, back, or front. Simple affairs and easy in their use, Mei-tai carriers are able to accommodate children ranging from infants up to toddlers. Given the design of the carrier putting straps on shoulders, they are helpful to parents of heavier children, given the equal weight distribution. Mei-tai carriers are known for versatility.
These types of baby carriers are best for children ages one through four or five. They can accommodate up to 55 pounds. These carriers resemble a typical backpack and are great for toddlers and preschoolers. Some come with an insert that makes also makes them safe for infants. This type of carrier is simple to use, can be easily adjusted, and is ergonomic. This is a good choice if you are hiking, traveling or sight-seeing.
Consider The Comfort of Your Baby
While a baby carrier may be comfortable for you to wear, if your baby’s not comfortable, it can be a disaster. It is important that your baby is able to sleep comfortably in the carrier. It is also important that the material doesn’t chafe or itch and that the carrier isn’t too hot for the baby. Safety and support are important, but comfort will help keep the entire excursion fun for everyone.
Parent Comfort is Important, too
While it is very important that your baby is comfortable in their carrier, you should be also. This may be challenging if you have back problems, but it is possible to find a baby carrier that is comfortable for both you and your child. Look for a model that has wide padded shoulder straps. Also, look for a wide waist belt that is well-padded. This feature will help relieve some of the pressure on your lower back and allow you to wear the baby carrier comfortably for longer periods of time. The waist belt will help distribute the baby’s weight so you are evenly balanced. A well-built baby carrier will allow you to carry your baby for hours without experiencing back, shoulder or hip pain.
The Weight of The Carrier
Another consideration is how much the baby carrier weighs. Some consist of heavy materials or a rigid frame. These types of baby carriers can weight quite a bit and when combined with the weight of your baby, can be very heavy. If you have back problems, it is important to look for a baby carrier that is safe and comfortable, but lightweight.
Reliability and Safety
When you choose a baby carrier, you want to know that it is safe for your child. You also want to know it will withstand the strain of carrying your child for long periods of time. A well-built baby carrier will be comfortable for both you and your child. Your child will have enough room to breathe and move a bit, but the carrier will not be so loose they could fall out. Read the weight and height restrictions on the baby carrier before putting your child in. Also, check to ensure the baby’s neck is supported and there is nothing that could pinch or scratch them.
Ergonomics are Important
You will most likely be carrying in their baby carrier quite often. If so, you will want to ensure it is ergonomically correct and helps keep the hips and spine aligned correctly. For newborns, the carrier should position them with their legs tucked up and their backed curved. For an infant older than three months, the carrier should support both the hamstrings and the buttocks so the legs don’t dangle below the carrier.
Ease of Use
One of the primary considerations after your baby’s safety and comfort is how easy it is to use the baby carrier. Some models come with an array of buckles, snaps, zippers, and pouches. All of these different connections can make it confusing to get your baby in the carrier. While there will almost certainly be a learning curve when you are first using the baby carrier, some are easier to use than others.
Ease of Cleaning
You don’t want to put your baby in a carrier that isn’t easy to clean. There are so many opportunities for spills and smears not to mention everyday wear and tear that a carrier should be easy to clean. The easier to clean, the higher we scored the carrier. The highest scores were given to baby carriers which could be machine washed and dried. These were the most convenient which is great for busy parents. It is important to note that while some models said they could be machine washed, they had to be hung up to dry. Some models can only be spot cleaned, so it is important to check the cleaning label before purchasing a baby carrier.
Tips
Some Important Pointers for Getting The Most from Your Baby Carrier.
There is an easy-to-remember set of rules called T.I.C.K.S. that will help you when choosing and using your baby carrier.
Tight – Your baby carrier should be snug fit that will hold your baby’s weight securely in one place. This will prevent your child from slipping and sliding which can lead to breathing difficulty
and give the carrier optimal weight distribution. This doesn’t mean that your baby carrier should be any tighter than comfortable.
In View – Your baby’s face should always be visible to you. This means that none of the fabrics should be between your baby’s face that could obstruct views or breathing. Furthermore, if they are in a cradled position, this should never be facing toward the body but upwards.
Close Enough to Kiss – Your baby should be high enough that you could kiss their forehead with minimal strain. Lower positions will not provide effective weight distribution.
Keep Chin off Chest – There should always be enough room between the baby’s chin and chest to allow them to breathe easy. If the carrier is too tight to allow for this optimal air flow, the results can be tragic.
Support for The Back – If your baby is in a carrier their back should be getting plenty of support in a comfortable position. A baby slumped down in their carrier could be at risk of breathing difficulty, when in the cradle or carrier their seat should be at the deepest part of the cradle so they aren’t doubled over.
Other Safety Tips
Following Are a few other important tips that will keep you from inadvertently injuring yourself or your child.
- While it seems obvious enough, never underestimate the danger of drinking hot beverages or foods while your baby is in the carrier.
- Never drive your car, ride a bike or practice any kind of athletic activities with your baby in the carrier. The only place for a small child in a moving vehicle is a car seat — not just a safe idea, it’s the law.
- check all the buckles, knots and straps as if it were a parachute. An insecure carrier can come undone with a jolt and only lightning reflexes will save the little fellow.
- It is always a good idea to try on a carrier and practice with a doll, stuffed animal or 12.5 lbs. of packed sugar. If the weight is not feeling right at the first try on it will be very uncomfortable after several hours.
- Be careful for loose materials. Anything dangling can possibly get caught and cause an accident. Dangling material can also be a fire hazard if you happen to be moving about in the kitchen.
- Avoiding Falls. Dropping a baby from their carrier is a reality you should be constantly aware of. If you must bend to pick something from the floor, you will need to keep your torso as upright as possible to keep the baby in their saddle. You will also need to use one hand to hold the baby in place and ensure they aren’t dropped forward.
Few Babywearing Tips for Those with High Back Pain
- Exercise extreme caution when lifting the baby into the carrier. This will have to be done several times a day and you will want to keep this as careful as possible.
- Bend with the knees when mounting the baby into the carrier.
- While this may sound unnecessary, avoid any jumping or bouncing or even active activities with other older children or friends. Sudden twists can cause the buckles to react in unexpected ways.
- Start the practice slowly. Begin with a walk around the park or a trip to the corner store.
- Babies should be worn as high and close to the parent as possible. If you will be using a Bjorn style carrier, be sure the straps cross properly across the lower back.
How to Wear a Baby Carrier if You have Back Pain
Following are some principles to apply when wearing a baby carrier if you have a bad back or a history of bad backs.
- Don’t allow your baby to slant forward if this were to happen, your center of gravity will follow and the muscles required to maintain your upright position strained. This could cause muscle or joint injury and strain. It is a good idea to keep your baby in an upright seated position so that you back will also be upright.
- Harness the Straps in place securely. This will ensure the baby is kept in a stable position and this will ultimately keep your back and position more stable as well.
- You will want to keep your baby supported in the forward position as opposed to wearing the baby of the back. This is to avoid placing undue strain on the back muscles.
FAQ
Q: When Should I Change The Carry Position?
A: After you have gained some experience with a baby carrier, you will have a better idea of how to adjust your baby wearing experience for greater functionality and comfort over long periods of times.
Q: Are Baby Wraps Safe?
A: If not the right size improperly used, the baby sling can certainly cause the child difficulty breathing and and poor posture leading to other conditions. For this reason, many of the baby carrier manufacturers advise that you practice using the device with a doll or suitable substitute for a human baby. If you feel that the sling is not secure either try another product or forgo the baby carrier. When in use, the baby’s face should always be visible. Furthermore, the sling should be an appropriate size for the baby. Most “one-size” baby carriers are designed for babies within the 8 to 35 lb range.
Q: When Will My Baby Be Ready for a Front or Outward Facing Carrying Position?
A: Wait until your baby has robust neck and head control, as well as curiosity to see and interact with the larger world. Having said that, experts recommend starting off with short intervals, like less than ten minutes. You want to avoid over-stimulating your child.
Q: At What Age am I Able to Put My Child in a Back Carry Position?
A: Ideally, wait until around six months of age. This when they’ve had time to develop stronger control over their neck, head, and back. This is also a time period in which parents are a little more comfortable not having a visible and direct line of sight on their child at all times.
Conclusion
Don’t let a small condition like back problems slow you down, there are plenty of ways a proper baby carrier can actually help you feel better and reduce the chances of back pain.
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Editors’ Choice & Professional’s Choice
- Breathable, lightweight all-mesh carrier
- All carry positions, including ergonomic, forward facing option
- Lumbar support for extra back comfort as your baby grows
Best Seller
- Simple, no-guess tying instructions and just one size make this wrap...
- Stretchy and SOFT, machine washable fabric that will keep your baby...
- ERGONOMIC seat for baby, ergonomic weight distribution for mom and...
- EASY to tie and easy to breastfeed in. It even acts as a privacy...
- Bond with your little one while getting back into the swing of things:...
Best Budget
- Carry children from 8-36 pound / 3.6-16.3 kgs
- 3 ways to carry: facing-in, hip-hugger and backpack
- Includes detachable hood for sun protection and sleepy time
- Buckle-free wrap and tie design
- Machine washable.Extra wide padded straps
I’m Lucas. I used to be a back pain sufferer, but I’ve recovered. I created BestforBackPain.com to help others find relief without going to physical therapy or expensive medication.
Last update on 2021-01-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API