Are Baby Carriers Safe for Babys Hips? by the Sling Experts - Golf Bag,Sports Bag,Outdoor Bag Manufacturer

What’s is the safest and best baby carrier for your baby’s hips? How can you make sure you’re not hurting your baby’s hips? How can you be sure they’re sitting comfortably?

I get asked about ‘The Hip Thing’ EVERY day. If you’re researching baby carriers and slings online then you’re likely to come across the idea that certain brands and carriers are ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for babies’ hips. But what does that actually MEAN?

Here’s what you need to know.

The ideal position for your baby’s hips, in any carrier or wrap, is for them to be supported across the whole of their seated width; along their thighs; from one ‘knee pit’ to another; with the knees slightly higher up than their bum; in an ‘M’ position. This is the ideal position to support your baby’s developing hip joint.

If you have a family history of hip dysplasia, or if health professionals have any concerns about the development of your baby’s hips…

… then this optimum, M-shaped, ‘spread-squat position is especially important to maintain. In fact, one common treatment for babies with hip concerns is a Pavlik Harness, which holds their legs and hips precisely in this position. You CAN still babywear! We can help you choose a carrier to fit around harnesses – get in touch if you need advice on this.

If there are no particular medical concerns: Please don’t fret too much about The Hip Thing!

Even if your carrier does not have a wide base offering lots of support – either because it’s not well designed, or because you haven’t correctly adjusted it – there is no evidence you will have caused your baby any lasting damage! Dangling legs are simply not IDEAL. For either of you.

A well-adjusted, wide-based carrier is simply MUCH comfier for your baby… and you!

It will take more of your baby’s weight, holding them snugly into your chest, with no undue pressure on their body. With your centers of gravity matching, they’ll feel LIGHTER. So you don’t get an aching back or shoulders and you’ll be able to carry them for longer!

You never need to force your baby’s hips apart to achieve this position.

Note how far apart your baby’s knees are when you cuddle them against your chest: that’s exactly how wide your sling, wrap or carrier should be.

Here’s my full video explainer and tutorial for the best way to ensure your baby’s hips are fully supported in your carrier.

Remember, we offer a free video fit check with every purchase from our London Boutique and our online store, so we can make sure you’re set up correctly. If you need help checking the fit of your existing carrier(s), you can book a video consultation with our expert team, 7 days a week.

Read more on healthy hips and babywearing from Dr Rosie Knowles.

Further information from the International Hip Displasia Institute.

Our bestselling baby carriers – all optimised for healthy hip development

Ergobaby Omni Breeze Baby Carrier £174.90Select options
Manduca XT Carrier From: £159.00Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 5 customer ratingsSelect options
Lenny Lamb LennyUpGrade Carrier From: £129.00Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 1 customer ratingSelect options
Izmi Baby Carrier Product on sale~~From: £80.00~~ From: £60.00Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 4 customer ratingsSelect options
Freerider Baby Sling From: £58.00Select options
Coracor Baby Wrap £69.90Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 8 customer ratingsSelect options

Need help? Get in touch!

You can book a video consultation here. Live chat with us below, call 0345 222 9004, DM us on Instagram or [email protected].

Always follow the TICKS guidelines for safe babywearing.

Updated January 2022

About
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Hannah WallaceOwner & Consultant at Wear My BabyHannah Wallace founded Wear My Baby in 2014. She is an experienced Babywearing Consultant and has trained with Slingababy, the School of Babywearing and L’ecole A Porter.

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Article NameIs a Baby Carrier Safe for Baby's Hips?DescriptionWhat's is the safest and best baby carrier for your baby's hips? How can you make sure you're not hurting your baby's hips? Here's what you need to know. Author Hannah WallacePublisher Name Wear My Baby