How to carry in an ergonomic way

You’ve taken the first step by choosing the right carrier. The hardest part should be over, right? It’s not always that easy. A lot of parents feel insecure about how to place the baby in the carrier to make sure that the position is comfortable, correct and ergonomic. 

A lot of carriers have endless settings to go through before you’re ready to carry. Make sure that you choose a carrier that is easy to use and has clear instructions, inc. how to carry in different positions. All the baby carriers from Najell are developed and designed with this in mind. So that you don’t have to worry about struggling to find the right position and spend time doing the things you love instead. 

To make life a bit easier for you, we have gathered the most important things to look at while carrying. Here’s an ABC of how to carry in an ergonomic way.

ABC: How to carry in an ergonomic way

A - Airways and breathing 

• Are the baby’s airways free? 

• Is the child’s head close enough to kiss? 

• Are you close enough for a hug? 

! You should always be able to see and feel the baby. The fit should be tight, but comfortable.

B - Baby’s position

1. Head and neck

The support for the head should be adjusted according to the baby’s age and movements.

• Newborns: Support to the earlobes. 

• Babies with a steady neck: Support to the neck. 

• Steadier toddlers: Support at least up to the shoulders.

2. Arms and back

Smaller infants feel secure and safe when the arms are close to the baby’s face. The child should be able to rest in a c-shaped position when needed. 

3. Hip and legs

An ergonomic position for a newborn baby is what usually is referred to as a natural fetal position, a frog legged position or M-shaped position. The baby’s bottom is positioned lower than the knees, and the hips are spread open. The thighs are supported and spread around the caregivers’ torso. The legs should be of the same shape as a frog. It’s usually more comfortable to tuck them in. When the child is a little older, the legs can be outside of the carrier. 

To get the right position, tilt the baby’s bum towards you. Adjust the front panel to give the baby the right support.

C - Comfort

Last but not least, the baby carrier should be comfortable for you and your baby. If it’s not, then try to change the settings and position of the child. Usually the child lets you know if it’s uncomfortable. 

! Don’t be too impatient. Usually it takes time for the baby to get used to being in the baby carrier.