Babywearing can make life easier for parents who need their hands free while keeping their child close, but winter adds safety considerations for keeping a baby warm and carrying them safely. Baby carriers are a multi-billion-dollar market, and their popularity is projected to only increase, with the industry expected to add a billion dollars over the next decade. Carriers let parents bring their child with them while staying hands-free to do other things or travel without a heavy stroller.
But, like everything with children, it comes with risks. Babywearing in the colder months can be convenient, especially when snow makes trekking around with a stroller difficult, but it needs to be done safely. When temperatures drop, parents may instinctively bundle their babies in thick coats and blankets.
However, Alisa DeMarco, a certified babywearing expert at Tushbaby, said bulky winter clothing can be a safety risk when you're using a carrier. "Winter and cold weather add another layer to babywearing safety because parents need to think about both warmth and visibility," DeMarco said. "Be especially mindful of bulky coats, blankets, scarves and extra layers that can interfere with a carrier's fit or positioning and make it harder to monitor your baby." She added that babies should remain "upright, kissable and visible," with their face and mouth uncovered.
Rather than relying on bulky clothing, DeMarco recommends "dressing baby in thinner, appropriate layers underneath the carrier" and checking the child frequently to make sure they are comfortable and not overheating. Several brands also make winter covers for carriers that work like sleeping bags. These insulated, often water-resistant covers attach to carriers and surround the baby to keep them warm without thick layers.
Parents should also follow the instructions for their individual carrier, including guidance about their child's age, size and appropriate carrying position. Baby wearing offers a practical way to keep a child close while doing daily tasks around the house, like cooking, cleaning, or even working. While baby carriers are designed to be ergonomic and take pressure off parents' backs and hips, DeMarco said parents shouldn't sacrifice their health for the convenience of baby wearing.
The baby expert said carrying a growing child for extended periods can put extra strain on a parent's back, shoulders and hips, especially if the child's weight isn't well distributed or the parent changes posture to compensate. "I encourage parents to listen to their bodies, change positions, and take breaks when they need them," the expert said. Aimee Ketchum, a pediatric occupational therapist, told KLFY that babywearing can help strengthen the bond between a parent and their child.
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