Babywearing for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

Babywearing is the practice of carrying your baby in a carrier, wrap, or sling close to your body. It has been the default way humans carried babies for thousands of years, and modern research confirms what parents have always known: babies who are carried cry less, sleep better, and develop stronger bonds with their caregivers.

If you are new to babywearing, the sheer number of carrier types, brands, and opinions can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks it all down so you can start carrying your baby with confidence.

Why Babywear?

Hands-free parenting: Cook dinner, walk the dog, chase your toddler, or just drink a cup of coffee while it is still hot. A good carrier gives you your hands back while keeping baby content.

Reduced crying: Studies show that babies who are carried for at least three hours a day cry 43% less than babies who are not. The closeness, warmth, and motion mimic the womb environment that newborns crave.

Better bonding: Skin-to-skin contact and physical closeness release oxytocin in both parent and baby. This is especially valuable for dads, adoptive parents, and anyone building a bond with a new baby.

Easier breastfeeding: Many carriers allow you to nurse while carrying, which is a game-changer when you are out and about.

Healthier development: Properly designed carriers support the natural C-curve of baby's spine and promote healthy hip development in the M-position recommended by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.

Types of Baby Carriers

Stretchy Wraps

Long pieces of stretchy fabric (usually jersey or TENCEL) that you wrap around your body and tie. Brands like Solly Baby and Boba are popular choices. Stretchy wraps are great for newborns because the fabric conforms snugly to tiny bodies. The downside is a significant learning curve. Most parents need several practice sessions before they feel confident, and wraps become less supportive as baby gets heavier (usually around 15-20 lbs).

Woven Wraps

Similar concept to stretchy wraps but made from non-stretch woven fabric. They support heavier babies and offer dozens of different tying methods. The learning curve is even steeper than stretchy wraps, and they tend to be more expensive. Woven wraps are popular with experienced babywearers but are rarely the best starting point for beginners.

Ring Slings

A length of fabric threaded through two metal rings, worn over one shoulder. WildBird and Sakura Bloom are well-known brands. Ring slings are fast to put on once you know how and great for quick carries and hip carries with older babies. The one-shoulder design means they are not ideal for long walks or heavy babies.

Structured Carriers (SSCs)

Carriers with a structured body panel, padded shoulder straps, and a waist belt. Ergobaby, Tula, and Lillebaby are major brands. SSCs are intuitive to use (think backpack with a baby seat) and distribute weight well for longer carries. Many require a separate infant insert for newborns, and they tend to be bulky to transport.

Hybrid Carriers

A newer category that combines the simplicity of wraps with the structure of SSCs. The Marsupi Breeze is a leading example. Hybrid carriers typically have a soft, flexible panel that conforms to baby like a wrap but closes with simple fasteners instead of requiring tying. They tend to be more compact and easier to learn than either wraps or SSCs, making them increasingly popular with first-time parents.

Safety Basics

No matter what carrier you choose, follow the TICKS guidelines for safe babywearing:

T - Tight: The carrier should be snug enough that baby is held close to your chest. You should be able to kiss the top of baby's head.

I - In view at all times: You should always be able to see baby's face by glancing down.

C - Close enough to kiss: Baby's head should be close enough for you to easily kiss.

K - Keep chin off chest: Baby's chin should never be pressed against their chest, which can restrict breathing. There should always be at least a finger's width of space.

S - Supported back: Baby's back should be supported in a natural curved position. If you lean forward, baby should not slump away from you.

When Can You Start?

Most carriers can be used from birth (7-8 lbs minimum), though some structured carriers require an infant insert or have a higher minimum weight. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines. Premature babies or babies with medical conditions should get clearance from their pediatrician before babywearing.

Choosing Your First Carrier

For beginners, we recommend prioritizing ease of use above everything else. The best carrier is the one you will actually use, and complicated carriers tend to stay in the closet. A hybrid carrier like the Marsupi Breeze or a simple structured carrier like the Baby Bjorn Mini are great starting points. You can always add a wrap or ring sling to your collection later once you are comfortable with the basics.

Do not feel pressured to buy the most expensive option. A $72 Solly Wrap or a $94 Marsupi will serve you just as well as a $250 carrier for everyday babywearing. Spend the savings on diapers instead.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Carrier too loose: The most common mistake is not tightening the carrier enough. Baby should be snug against your chest, not hanging away from your body.

Starting too late: The earlier you start babywearing, the easier it is. Newborns love being carried and will adapt quickly. Waiting until baby is older and more wiggly makes the transition harder.

Giving up too soon: It is normal for the first few attempts to feel awkward. Give yourself at least five tries before deciding a carrier is not for you.

Buying based on someone else's recommendation alone: Every body and every baby is different. What works for your friend might not work for you. If possible, try before you buy or choose a brand with a good return policy.