Baby Sling Safety and Guidelines

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recently recalled over one million baby slings, as they have been linked to infant deaths through improper use. This baby sling recall has many parents and soon-to-be parents asking the question, "How do I safely use a baby sling?" While baby slings aren't for everyone, many parents find them an excellent way to sooth their babies, as well as bond with them and even breastfeed while on-the-go. As with all infant products, learning about baby sling safety will help you use your sling properly and give you peace of mind.

Not All Brands Are Created Equal
The recent baby sling recall was linked to baby sling brands that were designed like a curved, hobo style handbag (pictures and descriptions can be found here). These bag-like carriers posed a suffocation risk for babies when either their chins were pushed down into their chests or their faces were pressed against the fabric sides. Since infants under four months cannot usually right themselves from such compromising positions, the threat of death is greatest from these complications in this age group. While all slings and baby carriers carry some risks that parents need to be aware of, other styles have not been recalled, such as those that resemble long pieces of fabric that are wrapped around parent and child like the Moby Wrap, or upright carriers like the Snugli. As with any brand, always read all directions and test out how to position the carrier before using it with your baby.

Positioning Is Important
Newborns are notorious for being able to curl into little balls, or "the fetal position," since they are still adjusting to life outside the constrictions of the womb. Most of us have had the blissful experience of cradling a tiny bundle to our chests as they're all snuggled up against us. It is this snuggling together that can be so appealing about baby slings: your baby can have the benefits of snuggling against your body while your hands are free to do other things. However, the CPSC has recently released diagrams detailing the proper positions for a baby in a sling. While many of the "wrong" positions may feel snug and secure, they pose dangerous risks and should be avoided. When your baby is in the sling, his chin should always be up, face visible and the nose and mouth should be free at all times. No official baby sling guidelines exist at this time, but this important awareness is a good first step.

Zolowear, a leading manufacturer of fabric-type slings that have not been recalled, has a comprehensive baby sling safety chart on its website, detailing various holds and for what ages each is appropriate. Here, you can view diagrams and even watch videos which show you how to position your sling into a specific hold for either carrying or breastfeeding, and each hold is listed under specific age categories, from zero to fifteen months. Troubleshooting and safety information is also listed, helping you safely use a baby sling clearly and easily.

Remember that using a baby sling is a personal choice that only you as a parent can determine whether or not you're comfortable with. If you do choose to use a sling for your baby, read all instructions, follow all safety guidelines, educate yourself as much as possible on your baby sling brand and frequently check your baby while in the sling for healthy and safe positioning.

Note: The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) now recommends that only babies 4 months of age or older be placed in any baby sling, as these babies are usually developed enough to avoid most suffocation risks.

Sources:
npr.org
usnews.com
cpsc.gov
zolowear.com