Baby slings how long

Sometimes parents are worried that babies who settle to sleep in a sling or baby carrier may be less likely to settle on their own. While some babies settle better when they sleep in a cot alone, others find it difficult to settle if put down for sleep alone. Studies show that babies need to have positive sleep associations and that babies whose sleep environment is calm, and for whom going to sleep is pleasant, will develop better long-term sleeping habits.

For some babies a calm and pleasant sleep environment involves being in contact with their mother or other caregiver — a typical practice in many countries.

Some babies therefore prefer to settle by being soothed by their parents, and not by being left alone, so these babies fall asleep happily in a sling. Some slings are easy to take off if your baby falls asleep at night time and you want to take the sling off without disturbing them. Sometimes parents choose to wear their babies until they fall asleep and then lie them down. Babies born prematurely who are carried in skin-to-skin contact by their parents have improved temperature regulation, increased oxygen saturation and, over time, better growth.

The World Health Organisation supports 24 hour a day baby wearing for premature babies, until they reach their full gestational age, especially where modern medical care is unavailable to parents. As with any item of baby equipment, you may want to take some time to practise using a sling or baby carrier, perhaps with another adult watching you.

Be sure to follow the manufacturers' instructions for safe use of any sling, carrier or other equipment. Carefully check any sling or baby carrier that you own, buy or borrow for wear and tear. Only undertake safe activities while your child is in the sling or baby carrier — no jogging, cycling or extreme sports!

Also ensure that you can do up any buckles, straps or clips without help and that you can adjust all straps firmly with one hand. Here are a few tips for choosing a comfortable baby carrier: Look for broad, padded shoulder straps that go across your back, as well as a broad waist strap. They should also stop the carrier moving from side to side too much. If you plan to use the carrier as your baby grows, look for a carrier that you can change around so your baby can face forwards.

Use your carrier only until your baby feels too heavy or uncomfortable to carry safely. Tighten the straps before you put your baby in the carrier, then use the straps to get a snug, secure fit. Make sure you can adjust all straps firmly with one hand.

Try to get into the habit of checking that the straps are still secure and show no signs of damage before putting your baby in each time. If any straps or buckles are damaged, contact the supplier or manufacturer. Get someone to help you put your baby in the carrier until you get used to doing it on your own.

Some people find it helps to practise with a doll or teddy before putting the baby in. Take care when putting on and taking off the carrier, because this is when falls are most common.

If you can, get somebody else to help you, or sit down on the floor. Hold on to something stable — like a pole — if you bend down or lean forward while wearing the sling, carrier or backpack. Avoid holding hot food and drinks, running after other children and doing anything else that could be dangerous. We create our articles with NCT antenatal teachers, postnatal leaders and breastfeeding counsellors, as well as academics and representatives from relevant organisations and charities.

Read more about our editorial review process. Everything you need to know about slings and carriers. Read time 7 minutes. Email Post Tweet Post. In this article: What is a sling or a carrier? Are there are any benefits to using a sling? What are the risks of using slings?

So how can I keep my baby safe in their sling or carrier? Baby positions for slings and carriers Can I breastfeed in a sling? Further information.

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