General Safety Warnings for Baby Carriers and Baby Wraps

Please read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using your baby carrier or baby wrap for the first time. During every use, make sure your baby is positioned securely and regularly check the carrier, fastenings and overall fit.

The Most Important Safety Rules at a Glance

Keep the airways clear: the baby's nose and mouth must remain unobstructed at all times.
Support the head and neck: young babies in particular require appropriate support.
Check all fastenings: buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners and straps must be correctly secured and undamaged.
Be aware of your surroundings: hot objects, drinks and other hazards must remain out of the baby's reach.

Airways and Head Position

Check your baby regularly and make sure the nose and mouth remain completely clear.
Your baby's chin must not drop onto the chest, as this can restrict breathing.
Until your baby can hold their head independently, use the head and neck support provided by the carrier.
With a baby wrap, the appropriate fabric panel may be used for additional support depending on the tying method.
Your baby's face should remain visible and easy to monitor at all times.

Medical or Developmental Considerations

If your baby or child has medical, developmental or physical concerns, seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional, midwife or qualified babywearing consultant before using a carrier for the first time.

Secure Positioning

Make sure your baby is positioned correctly and securely inside the carrier.
The baby should not sit too loosely or too low.
Regularly check whether straps, fabric panels or adjustments have shifted during use.
Always secure your baby before changing the position of the waist belt or shoulder straps.

Never Open the Waist Belt While the Baby Is Unsecured

Never open the waist or hip belt while your baby is sitting unsecured in the carrier. If you need to reposition or readjust the waist belt, secure your baby first.

Check Hook-and-Loop Fasteners and Buckles

Hook-and-loop fasteners must be clean, free from lint and able to grip securely.
Always follow the manufacturer's specified minimum overlap.
Buckles must not show cracks, breaks or other damage.
Before every use, check that all fastenings are fully secured.
Use any safety elastics or securing loops on buckles according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Take Care When Moving

Your balance can be affected by both your own movements and those of your baby.

Bend forward slowly and carefully.
Whenever possible, bend your knees rather than folding sharply at the waist.
Avoid sudden or jerky movements.
Use additional support if needed.
Remember that a larger or more active child can have a greater effect on your balance.

Not Suitable for Sporting Activities

Baby carriers and baby wraps are not intended for sporting activities involving increased impact, acceleration or risk of falling.

no jogging
no cycling
no skiing
no intensive exercise
no activities with an increased risk of falling

Always follow the additional safety guidance provided by the manufacturer of your specific carrier or wrap.

Inspect Your Carrier Regularly

Check your baby carrier or baby wrap regularly for signs of wear or damage.

inspect all seams
check buckles and fastenings
check hook-and-loop surfaces for dirt and wear
inspect straps and fabric for tears or damage
do not continue using a damaged carrier

Be Aware of Hazards Around You

Because your baby is carried higher and closer to your body, they may be able to reach objects that would normally be out of reach.

keep away from hot hobs and ovens
keep hot drinks out of your baby's reach
take particular care when cooking or handling hot liquids
watch for sharp or breakable objects
be aware of door frames, cupboards and other obstacles
make sure your baby cannot reach potentially dangerous objects

Safe Babywearing – The Key Points

A baby carrier or wrap should always be used correctly, remain undamaged and be suitable for the child. Clear airways, a secure head position, correctly closed fastenings and regular inspection of the carrier are among the most important safety measures.

If in doubt: stop using the carrier, secure your baby and check the carrier again before continuing.