Are you thinking about using a baby wrap, but have no idea where to begin? Baby wraps are colorful and adorable, and everyone seems to want one. Learning how to wrap a baby carrier requires a little more work and can be a tad bit intimidating.
In this article, we will dwell on all the nitty-gritty details of how to use a baby wrap and answer some questions you might have about babywearing. So, grab your carrier and prepare for practice.
Steps on Baby Wearing
- Position your baby carrier.
Find the brand tag in the middle of the wrap and place it across your chest, tab facing outwards. Make sure to start around your bust, not your waist. - Bring the carrier behind you, create an X, and bring it over your shoulders.
Place the two ends of the wrap behind you. Create an “X” across your back before taking the panels up and over your shoulders. Try to keep the fabric flat to avoid twists. Make sure the fabric is snug against you, but it shouldn’t feel compressing. Keep the baby carrier wide over the shoulders for comfort, like a shawl.
Make sure your stretchy baby wrap is tight enough, so baby stays up at kissable height once positioned. To do so, take one shoulder panel and use both hands (one on either seam), lift it up and forward, and remove any slack in the wrap. Do the same to the other side. - Create an “X” in the front.
The next step on how to wrap a baby carrier is to collect both panels into your hand in a ball. Then, pull through the panel with the label. Pull them out from the bottom, making sure not to lose any of the snug-ness you’ve created. Then, cross them, creating an X. You now have an X on your back and an X on your front. Bring the two ends behind you.
At this point, ensure that the fabric is flat against you as possible, and snug, but not uncomfortable. Pull the shoulder panels evenly across your shoulders and upper arm to ensure your baby’s weight will be evenly distributed for a weightless and comfy carry. - Secure your baby carrier.
Once you have brought the panels behind you, secure the wrap using a double-knot, or bring them back to the front if you have extra length. Be sure to always double-knot. - Prepare the baby wrap.
Pull the panel with the label down since you’ll be using that panel last. The wrap panel lying closest to your body is the side you’ll put your baby in first. - Place your baby in the wrap.
Put your baby on the opposite shoulder. Lean back a little to ensure that your baby is supported. Take the panel closest to your body and bring it under your baby’s leg to let the strap rest at the back of their knee. Spread the fabric from one knee pit to the other. Your baby’s knees should create an “M” shape where their knees are slightly above his bum. Do the same process with the other side. - Secure your baby with the label panel.
Grasp the front panel with the tag on it, take it over each leg, and then cover your baby’s back to the bottom of their neck. They should now be snug, cozy, and secure.
Take one of the side panels and tuck it gently over your baby’s head if you want more neck support.
Safety Considerations
Learning how to wrap a baby carrier is generally considered safe; however, there are always things to consider to make sure your baby is carried in the most reliable way possible. Make sure to keep the following considerations in mind every time you wear your baby.
Changing Newborn’s Clothes
The first thing you have to learn before learning how to wear baby body suit with pants is changing newborns’ clothes generally.
- Ensure your baby has an unobstructed airway.
Your baby’s airway can become obstructed while babywearing, so, it’s essential to keep this safety forethought in mind when your baby is in the carrier. The best way to keep your baby’s airway clear is to keep them in an upright position. Place them high on your body so you can monitor their breathing. Also, make sure their chin does not fall onto their chest because this can possibly obstruct the airway. - Ensure your carrier is in optimal condition.
Every time you attempt how to wrap a baby carrier, try to inspect the carrier first. Make sure it is free from tears, weak areas, or loose and snagged stitching to avoid unexpected malfunctions while you are wearing your baby. It is recommended you purchase your carrier from a trustworthy manufacturer to ensure all testing and labeling standards are met before you ever use the carrier. - Make sure you provide enough support.
Your baby needs to be held ergonomically for the comfort of both the parent and the baby. Your baby’s neck and back need to be supported as they develop, and their hip sockets should be placed in the correct position. Ensure that their knees are higher than their bottom, so always keep them in the correct position. - Never back carry using stretchy wraps.
Stretchy carriers do not provide enough support required to use a back carry. Since the wrap stretches as your baby leans back, your baby is prone to fall out of the wrap easily. However, woven wraps are safer for a back carry, as long as you have secured it tightly.
Conclusion
We know that learning how to wrap a baby carrier, especially the ins and outs of babywearing, can be a little overwhelming. That’s why we made sure to cover as much. Babywearing is much more than a trend or a fashion accessory. It can help you keep your baby close while also freeing up your hands to get other chores done. Know more about baby carriers.