Checklist / Babywearing

The Ultimate Babywearing Checklist for Dads

You're going to look at a baby carrier for the first time and see more buckles and straps than a parachute harness. It's intimidating. But once you figure it out, babywearing is the single most useful parenting skill you'll develop. Your baby is happy, your hands are free, and you look like a competent dad doing it. Triple win.

Use this checklist when shopping for a carrier, learning to use it for the first time, or troubleshooting why your back hurts after 20 minutes.

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Choosing the Right Carrier

Try before you buy — carriers fit different body types differentlyMust have

What works on your partner's frame might not work on yours. Wider shoulders, longer torsos, bigger chests — all affect fit. Many baby stores let you test them. Do it.

Start with a structured carrier (SSC) if you want easy on/offRecommended

Structured soft carriers (Ergobaby, Lillebaby, Tula) have buckles and are the easiest to learn. Wraps look cool but have a learning curve that will test your patience.

Make sure the carrier supports newborns (or get an infant insert)Must have

Not all carriers are safe for newborns without an insert. Check the minimum weight and age. Using a carrier before baby has head control without proper support is dangerous.

Check that it has good lumbar support if you plan to wear for extended periodsRecommended

A waist belt that sits on your hips (not your waist) distributes weight properly. If all the weight is on your shoulders, you'll last 20 minutes before your back gives out.

Consider a ring sling for quick in-and-out tripsNice to have

Ring slings are fast to put on and great for short carries — grocery runs, around the house, transferring a sleeping baby. Not ideal for long hikes.

Get a carrier that works for front AND back carryRecommended

Front carry is great for newborns. But once they're 6+ months and 20 lbs, your back will want them on your back. A versatile carrier saves you from buying two.

Safe Positioning — The TICKS Rule

T — Tight: Carrier should be snug so baby is close to your chestMust have

A loose carrier lets baby slump, which can block their airway. Tighten until you can kiss the top of their head without bending down much.

I — In view at all times: You should always be able to see baby's faceMust have

No fabric covering their face. No chin pressed to chest. You need to see their nose and mouth are clear at a glance. Always.

C — Close enough to kiss: Baby's head should be at your chin/chest levelMust have

If baby is hanging at your belly button, they're too low. Adjust the carrier so you can bend your head down and kiss their forehead. That's the right height.

K — Keep chin off chest: There should be a finger's width under baby's chinMust have

A baby whose chin is pressed to their chest can't breathe properly. Make sure there's space between their chin and chest. Newborns especially need this check.

S — Supported back: Baby's back should be naturally curved, not straightMust have

Their spine should be in a C-curve (rounded back), not ramrod straight. The carrier should support this position, not force them flat.

Legs should be in an M position (knees higher than bum)Must have

This is the ergonomic seated position — like a little frog. Dangling legs (like in old-school carriers) puts pressure on the hip joints and can cause hip dysplasia.

Getting Started — First Carries

Practice putting the carrier on without baby firstMust have

Learn the buckles, the straps, the adjustments. Get comfortable with it empty before you add a squirming 10-pound human to the equation.

Have your partner spot you the first few timesRecommended

Two sets of hands makes the learning process much less terrifying. One person holds baby, the other adjusts straps. Teamwork.

Watch 2-3 YouTube videos for your specific carrier modelRecommended

The printed instructions are garbage for most carriers. Video tutorials for your exact model are infinitely more helpful. Search '[carrier name] dad tutorial' for videos showing it on a male body.

Start with short carries around the house before going outRecommended

Your first babywearing outing should not be a 3-hour hike. Start with 15-20 minutes around the house. Build up duration as you and baby get comfortable.

Adjust everything while standing in front of a mirrorRecommended

You can't see what you can't see. A mirror lets you check baby's position, strap placement, and whether they look comfortable or squished.

Wearing Tips for Dads

Watch your clearance — baby adds width and depth to your bodyMust have

You will bonk baby's head on door frames, car roofs, and store shelves until your spatial awareness adjusts. Duck more than you think you need to.

Don't cook, drink hot beverages, or handle sharp objects while wearingMust have

Hot splatter and a baby on your chest is a nightmare scenario. Same with knives. If you need to do these things, take baby out first. No exceptions.

Dress baby in one layer less than you think when wearingRecommended

Your body heat plus the carrier fabric equals a baby oven. In warm weather especially, dress light. A sweaty baby is an unhappy baby.

Never forward-face a baby under 6 months or without full head controlMust have

Forward-facing carry is fine once they have head and neck control and are curious about the world. Before that, they need to face you for airway safety.

Switch to a back carry once baby is 6+ months for longer outingsRecommended

Back carries save your shoulders and back on long walks. Most dads find it way more comfortable for bigger babies. Practice the transfer at home first.

Keep a burp cloth between you and babyRecommended

Spit-up directly onto your chest hair is a texture experience you don't need. Tuck a burp cloth in the carrier. Your shirts will thank you.

Dad Pro Tips

#1A sleeping baby in a carrier can be transferred to a crib without waking — if you master the 'slow lean and unbuckle' technique. Lean over the crib, slowly lower, unbuckle one side, ease them down, then release the other side. Practice makes perfect.
#2If your baby fights the carrier at first, try putting them in right after a feed when they're sleepy. The warmth and movement usually knock them out within 5 minutes. Once they associate the carrier with cozy nap time, they'll stop fighting it.
#3Buy a cheap carrier cover or rain shield. Getting caught in rain with a baby on your chest when you're 20 minutes from home is a solvable problem with a $15 accessory.