In babywearing, just like in life, after all, we are in a constant process of learning. Nowadays, the lovely gift of internet connection allows us to document every step of our learning journey and learn from other people's mistakes, but, let's face it, mistakes still happen and most of the times, they're necessary.
We've been through a lot of stuff since we started Mamagoló and we learned along the way, while talking to mommas around the world about their struggles with babywearing and testing things ourselves. So today we're gonna try to sum up the most frequent babywearing mistakes and find ways to avoid them as much as possible. :)
1. Choosing the wrong size of the carrier
We try to emphasize this as often as we can: it's really, really important to try out different types and sizes of carriers before deciding what to buy.
In one of our previous blog articles, we wrote about how size differs depending on the age and weight of the baby, so check that out before choosing between baby, toddler or
other carrier sizes.
Make sure:
the carrier is not too tight
the carrier is not too big
the carrier is not too loose
the straps don't dig into your shoulders
the belt of the SSC fits perfectly
2. Choosing a carrier that doesn't support the baby enough
Proper neck and back support should be a priority, especially when it comes to smaller babies, who are more fragile and need healthy development.
This has to do with size, but also with the type of carrier you choose. That's why, for newborns, stretchy wraps are the most recommended since they are elastic and support baby in the natural back position.
Make sure:
you read thoroughly the instructions provided by the brand you want to buy your carrier from - recommendations might vary from brand to brand, so get well informed beforehand
you understand the differences between carriers - some are fitted for smaller babies, some of them are fitted for babies who already have muscle and head control and some of them are perfect for all babies; read our ring sling versus SSC comparison to learn more, if you are interested in these two carriers
if possible, at your local babywearing libraries, try out the carrier you wish to buy, to see how well it supports the baby
3. Wrongly positioning the baby in the carrier, just because "it feels safe"
Close enough to kiss. Probably the most frequently used and heard expression when it comes to babywearing. For a good reason though, since this is probably the simplest and most useful rule to follow when it comes to positioning.
So make sure:
the baby is close enough to kiss - that means that he is positioned just right - not too low
the baby's airways are clear, so he can breath properly - baby should not face your breast or your chest (although they tend to do it), the head should rest comfortably on the side
no fabric is covering his face
you use all the layers of the carrier - for example, if you use the stretchy wrap, all three layers should be put on the baby, because the third layer assures the safety and proper support of the baby
you don't wear baby turned to the outside, facing forward - although you might feel safe with this kind of positioning, it doesn't follow the natural back and legs positioning of the baby and it is definitely not safe
4. Overheating
Especially in the summer, but in the winter as well, make sure you dress the baby properly so the extra-layers of the carrier don't apply extra heat to the baby. Think of baby carrier itself as a clothing item and guide the layers according to that.