The advent of baby wraps, carriers, and waist seats has allowed parents to free their hands, making it easier to take babies out for activities while maintaining close contact with them. However, surveys show that in China, the use of baby carriers is still relatively rare, whereas about 81% of mothers in the U.S. are willing to use baby carriers.
Can a carrier affect a baby’s leg shape? Which is more convenient, a baby wrap, carrier, or waist seat? How should you choose the right carrier for your baby? What precautions should you take during use?
1. Think About How You Plan to Use It Before Purchasing
Some baby wraps surround you like a hammock, allowing the baby to lie inside while you can easily breastfeed without taking the baby out. Some baby carriers are pocket-style. Baby carriers allow the baby to stay in a standing position, and some styles are adjustable as the baby grows: facing you when small, and facing outward when older. You need to consider whether the carrier will be used just for walks, or if you need it for everyday use. Do you need a breastfeeding-friendly carrier? Do you need one with adjustable sizes? Will your partner also be using it?
2. Choose a High-Quality Brand Carrier and Waist Seat
Opt for a well-made, high-quality brand carrier. The craftsmanship should be detailed and sturdy. It’s best to choose traditional, reputable brands. International brands include BabyBjorn (Sweden, founded in 1961), Combi (Japan, founded in 1957), and Babycare (USA, founded in 1992). Domestic brands include BaoBaoXiong (Fujian Jinjiang), among others.
The width of the carrier should be greater than 175px.
The carrier must have a 4-point safety buckle and be able to hold at least 20 kg.
It should be made from pure cotton fabric, which is highly absorbent, flexible, and durable.
3. Expert Answers
(1) Can a carrier affect a baby’s leg shape?
In the past, mothers often used wraps to carry their babies while doing household chores, which could lead to babies’ legs being fixed in certain positions for long periods. However, today, mothers use carriers less frequently for chores and for short durations when out and about, so there’s no need to worry about the carrier causing deformities in the baby’s legs.
(2) Potential Side Effects of Using a Carrier
Doctors point out that babies’ skin is delicate and needs to be kept dry and clean to avoid skin issues. Some carrier materials are too thick, not breathable, or wrap the baby too tightly, preventing the skin from staying dry and fresh, which can lead to rashes. When the baby develops rashes or allergies, parents should keep the baby’s skin dry, as mild symptoms usually heal in one to two days. If symptoms are severe, medical attention is needed.
4. How to Choose a Carrier or Waist Seat Based on Your Baby’s Age
Firstly, carriers are only suitable for babies over 4 months old.
(1) 4-6 Month-Old Babies: Front Carry Style
At this stage, the baby’s neck muscles are still developing, and they cannot support their head well. Therefore, it’s best to use the front carry style, facing towards the parent, allowing the parent to monitor the baby’s condition and avoid suffocation from pressure on the nose and mouth.
(2) 6-10 Month-Old Babies: Front Carry Style
At this stage, the baby cannot sit up independently, so the front carry style should still be used, but the baby can face outward to satisfy their curiosity about the world.
(3) Babies Over 10 Months Old: Back Carry Style
Reminder: Regardless of whether it’s the front or back carry style, parents should always monitor the baby to prevent any danger caused by the pressure of the carrier.
5. How to Choose a Waist Seat
A waist seat is generally suitable for babies over 3 months old. In recent years, this product has been replacing traditional carriers. For long outings or situations where extended walking is required, using a baby waist seat is more comfortable than a carrier. The weight is concentrated on the waist, reducing the strain on the lower back. According to a study conducted by the Kanbel Medical Center in the U.S. on Babycare waist seat users, waist seats are more beneficial for the baby’s bone development compared to using arms or a carrier and are recommended by orthopedic doctors.
When purchasing, pay attention to the stitching quality, whether the straps are wide, secure, and soft. Having straps around the waist and chest makes it more convenient to use.
6. Do Not Use the Carrier for More Than Two Hours at a Time
Baby carriers and waist seats should only be used as supplementary tools, typically when it’s inconvenient to carry the baby or when you need your hands free. Continuous use should not exceed two hours, and the continuous use of a waist seat should be limited to three hours. Again, it’s important to use the carrier and waist seat correctly. Improper use can not only negate the carrier’s utility but also cause harm to the baby’s muscles or bones, which is counterproductive.