Becoming a new mom means learning new skills and babywearing is one of the most rewarding. From learning how to tie a baby wrap to choosing the right baby wrap carrier, this guide will walk you through each step, so you and baby feel comfortable and confident.
Whether you’re searching “how to tie a baby wrap newborn” or trying to figure out a baby wrap carrier how to tie newborn, this post is for you.
Why You Should Use a Baby Wrap Carrier
Choosing the right babywearing option can feel overwhelming. Terms like baby wrap carrier, carrier, ring sling, and infant wrap get thrown around all over the internet.
Here’s why a baby wrap might be the perfect solution, especially in the early days:
Ideal for Early Postpartum Days
Baby wraps are wonderful during the first weeks as you bond with your newborn. They’re cozy, snuggly, and perfect for newborn’s and skin to skin contact. Here are just a few benefits of a baby wrap:
Promotes Bonding in the Fourth Trimester
Babywearing keeps your baby close, helping them adjust from womb to world while reinforcing that emotional connection. You can keep the wrap on all day and pop baby in and out as needed which can reduce crying by 43%.
Makes Skin to Skin Contact Easy
The benefits of kangaroo care (skin to skin) are well documented for newborns, helping regulate temperature, breathing, sleep, and support breastfeeding. Skin to skin contact for dad’s or other caregivers can be especially important and by using a wrap this can help with bonding and helps give them a sense of involvement too.
Comfortable and Gentle on Your Body
Unlike structured carriers, a soft baby wrap is gentle which can be especially helpful around healing C-section incisions or sensitive areas postpartum. Always check with your midwife or OB-GYN.
Convenience for On the Go Parents
Heading out for your first days with baby? You can wear your wrap for errands easily. It’s light and can be pre-tied to your body so it’s ready when baby needs to be put in and out or in again. Heading out in the cold or summer weather? Layer up and down for Winter and Summer babywearing!
Allows Hands Free Movement
One of the biggest perks is freedom or just having two hands free to get stuff done! Whether you’re making dinner, walking the dog, folding laundry or soothing baby to sleep. A baby wrap just makes life easier and more manageable.
Baby Wrap Carrier Cons to Know
While wonderful with so many benefits, there are a couple of things to consider when looking at a baby wrap:
Not Always Ideal for Older Babies
As babies grow heavier and more active, wrapping takes more effort. However, with adaptable techniques and the right fabric, you can adjust your wrap to grow with your child so this can all depend on the type of baby wrap you buy.
There Is a Learning Curve
Learning how to tie a baby wrap isn’t always intuitive at first. With practice (and this guide), you’ll gain confidence and comfort. It is just like tying a shoe lace, it becomes second nature after practice.
How to Tie a Baby Wrap (Step by Step)
Let’s get into the fun part, how to tie a baby wrap for newborns! This step by step guide makes your first few tries much easier or you can use our video’s to help guide you.
Front Inward Facing Carry Method
This is the most common and supportive newborn carry position.
Step by Step Instructions using the Ergobaby Aura Wrap:
Unfold the baby wrap (or take it out of it’s integrated storage pocket) and find the center (some carriers like Aura have a center marking to make it easier).
Place the center on your body, just below your chest.
Gather the top fabric and cross behind your back (under your arms) then bring it over your shoulders: creating an “X” or wings across your back.
Pull fabric down and under/through the layer of wrap you have at the front and cross it in front, forming another “X”. If you have a lot of fabric left you can cross it behind you again.
Tie a secure double knot at your waist, front, side, or back, however you feel comfortable.
Pick up your baby and lay them across the wrap on the side of your body where the wrap fabric is the 2nd layer sitting on top.
Using the bottom layer of the wrap that sits against your body gently guide this over your baby's closest leg (make sure you use/pull the fabric around the baby and not bend the baby’s leg around the fabric).
Pull the panel/fabric across your baby from knee to knee as you gently move baby into the middle of your body, high enough so you kiss the top of their head.
Then pull the outside panel across as well, so the fabric is knee to knee, ensuring an ergonomic “M” position.
The fabric will be across baby’s back from each side supporting baby at the nape of the neck.
Then take the fabric wrapped around your waist and lift it over babies legs and bring it up to cover baby’s back up to the nape of their neck. This is considered the 3rd layer.
Ensure babies head and airways are clear. You can flip or spread the shoulder straps to help with this depending on which side baby feels comfortable.
What Size Wrap Do You Need?
Some wraps come in different sizes, but others like the Aura Baby Wrap are one size fits all, making choosing a wrap easier. You can always try a wrap on with a local sling library to find one that works for you.
How to Protect Baby’s Airway
Always ensure:
You can see your baby’s face
Two fingers fit under the chin
No fabric covers the face
You can kiss the top of their head easily
Support Baby’s Posture
Your baby should be:
Close to your body
Back in a gentle “C” curve
Legs in an “M” shape
High enough to kiss the top of their head
Patience Is Key
Some babies take time to settle when using a wrap or even a baby carrier. Try soothing by:
Gentle bouncing
Rocking
Quiet talking
Walking around
FAQ’s
Q: Is a baby wrap safe for newborns?
Yes! When tied correctly and used with care, baby wraps are safe and ideal for newborns and great for postpartum and skin to skin contact.
Q: Can I forward face baby using a baby wrap?
Forward facing in a baby wrap is not recommended due to the limited support a baby wrap offers in this position. A structured carrier like the Omni Deluxe is recommended for forward facing.
Q: How long can I wear my baby in a wrap?
You can wear your baby as long as both of you are comfortable. Many parents use wraps for hours daily, especially during the fourth trimester. A baby wrap can be pre-tied so you can pop baby in and out throughout the day easily.
Q: What’s the best wrap for hot weather?
Lightweight and breathable wraps like the Ergobaby Aura Baby Wrap are great for warmer climates.
Q: How do I know my baby is positioned correctly?
Use the T.I.C.K.S. babywearing safety guidelines: Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off the chest, Supported back.
Q: Can I breastfeeding in a baby wrap?
You can breastfeed in a wrap, but only once breastfeeding has been well established outside of the wrap. If you choose to breastfeed using the wrap please ensure the following safety guidelines are followed:
Baby’s face and head are visible and not covered by fabric
You have one hand on baby at all times, when breastfeeding in a wrap this is not a hands free position
As soon as baby has finished feeding please ensure they are positioned back into the wrap in an upright position, close enough to kiss and not left to sleep in the wrap horizontally.
Q: Can dads or other caregivers use a wrap?
Absolutely! Wraps are unisex and adjustable for all body types. Babywearing is a bonding experience for everyone. Incredible benefits for dad and skin to skin contact for anyone.
Babywearing is more than a hands free parenting hack it’s a beautiful way to bond with your newborn, support their development, and give yourself the freedom to move through the early days with confidence. Whether you’re just learning how to tie a baby wrap or looking to make it part of your daily routine, practice makes perfect. Explore the Aura Baby Wrap for breathable comfort during the fourth trimester. Unsure whether a wrap or baby carrier is right for you? Take the Ergobaby carrier quiz to make sure you get the right product for you and your family.
