Baby carriers and slings can be useful for carrying your baby and freeing up your hands.
Keeping your baby close to you can help with:
- bonding
- recognising your baby’s cues for hunger and comfort
- stimulating hormones for breastfeeding
But baby carriers and slings may also be a risk to your baby, especially younger babies. They may be linked to suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Always follow safety advice if you choose to use one.
Using a baby carrier or sling safely
Not all baby carriers and slings are suitable for all babies. Make sure it is safe for your baby’s weight, age and developmental stage.
Practise putting baby carriers and slings on and off before using them with your baby. Check that the buckles and straps are secure.
How to position your baby
To use a baby carrier or sling safely, follow the TICKS guidelines.
This is to prevent your baby from suffocating.
T - Tight enough to hug your baby close to you
Keep your baby high up and in an upright position with their head supported. Loose fabric may cause your baby to slump down. This could restrict their breathing.
I - In view at all times
Make sure your baby's face is not covered with fabric or your body. You should always be able to see your baby’s face by glancing down.
C - Close enough to kiss
Your baby’s head should be close to your chin. By tipping your head forward, you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.
K - Keep your baby’s chin off their chest
Do this so they can breathe normally. Make sure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby’s chin.
S - Supported back
In an upright carrier, your baby should be held comfortably close to you. This means their back is supported in its natural position and their tummy and chest are against you.
Regularly check your baby’s breathing. Babies can be in distress without making any noise or movement.
Be aware of body heat
Make sure your baby does not get too hot. It's easy to overheat because of the body heat shared between you and your baby. Adjust your baby’s clothing if you think your baby is becoming too warm.
Feeding your baby
Do not feed your baby in a carrier or sling
If your baby needs to be fed, take them out of the carrier or sling.
Breastfeeding or bottle feeding in a carrier or sling could increase your baby’s risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or suffocation.
Sleeping in a baby carrier or sling
If your baby falls asleep, remove them from the sling or baby carrier as soon as possible.
Place them on their back to sleep. Laying on their back is the safest way for your baby to sleep. Sleeping in a baby carrier or sling could block your child’s nose and mouth. This can make it harder for them to breathe.
Babies with poor neck control or muscle tone
Some babies may have poor neck control or muscle tone. This can make it hard for them to lift their head. For example, they may struggle holding their head up during tummy time.
Babies with poor neck control or muscle tone often include babies:
- under 4 months of age
- born prematurely
- who had a low birth weight
- who are unwell
Babies with poor neck control or muscle tone may have a higher risk of suffocation in a baby carrier or sling.
Read the manufacturer’s safety information to see if the carrier or sling is suitable for your baby. Ask your public health nurse if you have any questions about using one with your baby.
Previously used baby carriers or slings
You may have a baby carrier or sling that is second-hand or that you used with an older child.
Do not use it if there are any signs of damage, rips or tears. Check it complies with European safety standards (EN 13209-2:2005).
This information is usually on the:
- product label
- packaging
- manufacturer's website
If you're not sure, ask the manufacturer.
Readjust the buckles and straps to make sure it is the right fit for your baby and clean it before use.
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s safety information.
Time out of the baby carrier or sling
Babies need time to be physically active each day. Interactive play with you on the floor is particularly important. For example, tummy time.
Avoid having them in a secured position for more than an hour at a time. This includes time in a buggy, high chair, baby carrier or sling.