Babywearing isn’t just a trend, it’s a powerful parenting tool that helps you bond with your baby, get things done, and support your little one’s development. Whether you’re exploring your first baby carrier, wondering how to carry a newborn, or asking “Is a baby carrier safe for newborns? "you're in the right place.
Here’s how to use a baby carrier safely and comfortably starting from birth.
1. Can You Start Babywearing from Birth?
Yes, baby carriers are safe for newborns as long as you're using a properly designed infant carrier and following essential babywearing safety guidelines.
At Ergobaby, most of our carriers are newborn ready starting from 7 lbs / 3.2kg. Some, like the Embrace Newborn Carrier, are designed specifically for the fourth trimester with soft supportive fabric for newborns and approved as hip healthy by The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI).
Why wear your newborn?
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Helps with bonding and strengthen emotional connections during the fourth trimester
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Promotes healthy physical development
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Allows for skin-to-skin contact for both mom and dad
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Gives parents hands free flexibility
Newborn Babywearing Safety Tips:
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Use a carrier with head and neck support
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Always keep baby visible and kissable. Ensure their airways are never restricted
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Follow the T.I.C.K.S. rule for babywearing safety
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Always read the manufacturer’s weight and age recommendations
Best Baby Carrier for Newborns
2. Choose the Right Type of Baby Carrier
There are many types of carriers out there, and the right one depends on your baby’s age, your lifestyle, and your preferences.
Types of Baby Carriers
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Soft Structured Carriers (SSCs): Like the Ergobaby Omni Deluxe, support multiple carry positions and are newborn ready and can support little one through to toddlerhood. Or the Ergobaby Embrace that is specifically designed for newborns with soft cozy material to keep baby close.
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Wraps: Soft and snuggly for newborns and great for skin-to-skin but require a little more practice to master.
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Slings: Quick to use and worn over one shoulder; ideal for short term wear and can often be made in many different fabric options.
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Backpack Style Carriers: Best for babies 6 months+ who can sit up independently but can be on the bulky side.
Need help deciding? Take the Ergobaby Baby Carrier Quiz to find your perfect baby carrier that is right for you and your family.
3. Understand Babywearing Positions and When to Use Them
Each stage of your baby’s development calls for different carrying positions. Babies grow quickly, and you need to adapt the way you wear them for each stage as you feel comfortable.
Babywearing Positions by Age
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Front inward facing: Newborn and up
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Front outward facing: From 4–6 months. Baby should only face outward when they have strong neck control, their chin clears the carrier panel, and they remain awake and comfortable
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Hip carry: 6+ months
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Back carry: 6+ months
When looking for an infant carrier, ensure you choose a baby carrier that offers ergonomic support for baby’s hips in every position like the Ergobaby carrier range does.
4. Follow Baby Carrier Safety Guidelines Every Time
Your baby’s safety is the top priority. Here’s how to wear them safely every time:
T.I.C.K.S. Rule for Safe Babywearing
Babywearing is a great way to stay close to your baby while keeping your hands free but it’s important to do it safely. The T.I.C.K.S. guidelines are a simple safety checklist used by babywearing experts to help ensure your baby is positioned correctly in a carrier or wrap.
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Tight
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In view at all times
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Close enough to kiss
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Keep chin off chest
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Supported back
Following these five points helps protect your baby’s airway and supports a safe, comfortable carry especially for newborns and young babies.
More Safety Must Knows:
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Use an ergonomic position to support baby’s hips (M-shape) and ensure they have a naturally curved back when in the baby carrier. Proper positioning helps keep baby’s airway clear while supporting healthy spine and hip development. Here is how to safely carry a newborn in the Ergobaby Omni Deluxe.
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Regularly inspect your carrier for wear and tear.
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Don’t overdress your baby as overheating is a risk especially in summer.
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Avoid snow suits as much as possible and know how to dress baby in winter.
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Avoid risky activities: no biking, running, or cooking over hot surfaces.
5. Practice Before Wearing Your Baby
Like most baby skills, confidence comes quickly with practice and it’s completely normal to need a few tries to get it just right.
Tips for Learning How to Use a Baby Carrier:
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Read the instruction manual and watch tutorials.
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Practice with a stuffed animal or doll.
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Have a partner assist you the first few times.
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Keep one hand on your baby until you feel confident.
Babywearing Builds Bonds and Boosts Confidence
Using a baby carrier supports your baby’s physical and emotional well being while giving you the freedom to move confidently through your day. From newborn cuddles to toddler adventures, a well chosen carrier makes parenting easier, safer, and more joyful.
