Babywearing got you in knots?
Whether you need a full step-by-step Wrap Carrier tutorial or just a quick refresher - you're in the right place! We have all of the tips and tricks to get you confidently wearing in no time.
So follow along with this easy reference guide to babywearing and remember if you aren't feeling 100% confident by the end of your practice run, we offer free one-on-one consults with a trained educator. Yes, we are THAT passionate about safe and comfortable babywearing when it comes to you and your sweet lil' babe.
How to Wear a Wrap Carrier
Step 1:
Start with the centre label high
Find the centre Chekoh label on your Wrap Carrier and place under your bra or bust line.
TIP: Start high, this will ensure your carry and baby remain high and supported throughout your wear.
Step 2:
Take each shoulder pass behind your back and over your shoulder
Do this one by one to make an X high across your back, between your shoulder blades.
TIP: Ensure there are no flips or twists in the fabric, no bunching and no slack.
Step 3:
Pull the shoulder passes down TIGHT!
The emphasis here is on the shoulder passes, the fabric needs to be firm here so they will stretch and mould around your baby to ensure they are held firm and high.
TIP: Any slack will cause your carry to loosen and baby to drop too low. You want the snap back and firmness of how your swimwear fits. If you feel it is too loose, try again before moving on to the next step.
Step 4:
Wrap the end of fabric around your body and tie in a double knot
The ends of the fabric can be wrapped around your body comfortably.
If you wish and if you have enough excess fabric you can tie off at the back, front and side - ALWAYS in a double knot.
How to Wear Baby your in Wrap Carrier
Step 1.
Keep your baby supported with one hand at all times. Start with the pocket closest to your chest first and guide your baby's leg through. Place the fabric at the back of one knee and cover across their back. Follow this by moving the remaining fabric to the back of their other knee, ensuring full coverage.
Step 2.
Repeat with the second pocket, taking time to ensure the fabric reaches from knee to knee. Position baby in a deep squat with their knees bent up higher than their dropped bottom.
Step 3.
Find the middle band with the Chekoh label and pull it up from under baby's bottom, over their legs and secure it high over baby's back. Your Chekoh label should be centred under baby's neck. Be sure to check on baby's position and adhere to the T.I.C.K.S Guidelines featured below.
T.I.C.K.S GUIDELINES
Tight
The Wrap should be tight and firm. Enough to hold your baby close to you, as this will be the most comfortable for you both. Any slack or loose fabric will allow your baby to slump down in the carrier which can hinder their breathing and pull on your back. A tight Wrap is important for a safe and supportive carry every time.
In view at all times
You should always be able to see your baby's face by simply glancing down. The fabric of the Wrap and/or your clothing should not cover their face.
Close enough to kiss
Your baby should be as close to your chin as is comfortable. By tipping your head downward, you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.
Keep chin off chest
Tilt baby's head back gently to ensure their chin is off their chest. This helps to maintain clear airways.
Supported spine
Baby's spine should be supported in its natural 'C' curve position with stomach and chest against you. If baby's spine feels out of line or too straight, perform a gentle pelvic tuck by rotating their pelvis towards their navel while repositioning (like in pilates class!)
A video refresher on the TICKS Guidelines.
Watch how to wear your Wrap Carrier
You can also watch our online website tutorials and saved live demos via our IG highlights tab.
If you are really struggling or have any questions about babywearing, we encourage you to book in a
FREE video call consultation with our trained baby wearing educator
here.