Babywearing
How to choose an ergonomic carrier
What to look for in an ergonomic carrier. Panel width and height, a knee-to-knee seat, carriers from birth, the EN 13209-2 standard, facing out, and adjusting it correctly.
In-depth guide 4 min read
Front, hip and back carries
As your child grows, the way you most like to carry them changes too. Every position has its place. Which one to use when is decided by your child’s age, the sling or carrier and its instructions.
The positions at a glance
| Position | Suitable for | Pluses | Bear in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front, facing you | from birth | the easiest way to check breathing and the M position; RoSPA considers it the safest for a newborn4 | as your child grows, they may block your view of your feet |
| Front, facing out | only if the sling or carrier allows it, and from the age in the instructions | your child sees the world | the M position is harder to maintain; before 6 months the IHDI prefers facing the parent1,2; your child has nowhere to “hide” from stimulation |
| On the hip | depending on the sling or carrier, often with an older baby | a view of the world and closeness | in a ring sling, the load is on one shoulder |
| On the back | according to the instructions, usually an older child | easiest on your back with a heavier child | you can’t see your child; putting them on takes practice |
Front, facing you
This is the basic position you start with. The IHDI recommends it for the first six months, because it best maintains the M position: your child’s legs naturally “hug” around you.1 At the same time you can see their face, which is a condition of the T.I.C.K.S. rule.3
Facing out
Many parents feel their baby is bored and wants to see the world. The IHDI says that facing out need not be harmful, but the thighs often hang unsupported to the knees and the M position is harder to maintain.1,2 If your carrier allows it:
- keep to the age or milestone given in the instructions,
- carry this way for shorter spells,
- watch whether your child is getting overstimulated, and if so turn them to face you.
Wraps are not usually tied for facing out.
On the hip
The hip position gives your child a view and lets you see them. In a ring sling it is a common position with an older baby. For longer carries, alternate sides so you don’t keep loading the same shoulder.
On the back
A heavier child is most comfortable to carry on your back. But because you can’t see them, it is important to:
- keep to the age and weight in the instructions; most makers of stretchy wraps do not recommend back carries,
- learn to put your child on safely, first over a bed or with a second person,
- check on your child in a mirror or shop window,
- carry your child high, so they can see over your shoulder and you can feel them.
For every position
- Tight The wrap or carrier should hold your baby snugly against you. Loose fabric lets the baby slump lower, which can make breathing harder for them and puts strain on your back.
- In view at all times You can see your baby’s face just by glancing down. The fabric must not close over them so that you have to push it aside. In a cradle position the face should point upwards, not into your body.
- Close enough to kiss Your baby’s head is as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head forward you can kiss the top of their head or forehead.
- Keep chin off the chest Your baby must never be curled so that their chin is pressed onto their chest, as this restricts breathing. There should always be at least a finger’s width of space under the chin.
- Supported back In an upright position the back is supported in its natural shape, with tummy and chest snuggled against you. A check: press your palm gently on their back. The baby should not straighten up or move closer to you.
Next
Where this comes from
The numbers in the text refer to these sources. The links go to the publishers’ own pages; we simply cite them.
- International Hip Dysplasia Institute:Baby WearingCarrying facing the parent in the first 6 months; facing out need not be harmful.
- International Hip Dysplasia Institute:Infant Carrier Design Considerations – Criteria for Hip-Healthy Designation
- UK Sling Consortium (via babyslingsafety.co.uk):The T.I.C.K.S. Rule for Safe Babywearing
- RoSPA:Baby sling safety advice
We last checked these sources on 13 October 2026.
Further along the path
Babywearing
Wrap or carrier – which is better?
Wraps, ring slings, ergonomic and hybrid carriers compared by your child’s age and weight, ergonomics, learning curve and safety. With a quick helper.
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Babywearing
Carrying safely
Everything that matters about safe babywearing in one place. The T.I.C.K.S. rule, a clear airway, sleeping in a sling or carrier, overheating, falls and checking your sling or carrier.
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