FAQs - Select baby carriers and baby slings from around the world

Frequently asked questions

ERGObaby

What is the weight limit of The ERGObaby carrier?
ERGObaby recommends a weight limit of 18kg for its carrier; however, the carrier has been tested up to 40 kg. Our carrier will accommodate you as long as you would like to carry and/or your baby would like to be carried.
If the carrier fits me will it also fit my partner?
The ERGObaby carrier will easily accommodate different shaped wearers. The carrier adjusts at the waist, shoulder straps and chest strap, which allows for many size options. The general height range is between 5' (152cm) and up to 6'4" (190cm). The waist belt can either be worn around the true waist or a little lower around the hips. This is mainly a personal preference but the general rule of thumb is shorter people do best wearing it around their hips and taller people around their waist. The ERGObaby waist extension extends the circumference of the waist belt of the carrier by 20 cm from 109 cm to 129 cm. We do not recommend using more than one waist extension.
Why do I need the infant insert and how long do I need to use it?
The infant insert was designed to use from birth till baby develops head control, usually around 3-4 months. It supports your baby's head and neck, as well as spine and hips during those first crucial months of development. Once your baby can hold her head up for long periods of time and is comfortable with her hips in a splayed position, the use of the infant insert is no longer necessary. The Infant Insert can also be worn with your baby in the Natural Sitting Position, sometimes called the "Spread-Squat Position", facing you in the carrier.

Note: These two developmental occurrences do not always happen at the same time, but do take place between 4 and 6 months. Since babies grow and develop at different rates, monitor your newborn's development to decide when she is ready for the transition.
I have a 3-month old son who is 6 kg. He has excellent head control for his age, but not so well when he's tired. Do I still need the infant insert?
Because your son is right on the cusp of needing the infant insert, it is probably not worth buying for only a month's use. Try putting your son in the carrier and let him tell you whether it works for him or not. There are several ways of placing him in the carrier on the front without the infant insert. One way to carry him would be with both legs off to one side and his bottom still located in the center of the carrier. The other way, having one leg/foot tucked up in the carrier cross legged style and the other leg dangling down on the other side. Continue to try it every once in a while until he seems content sitting in the carrier.
What age is best to move my baby to the back carry position?
This is an individual developmental process for babies. Once a baby has developed upper body strength and can sit up for periods of time unassisted, usually around 6 months, a child will be happy moving to your back. It is not uncommon though for younger babies to be able to sit happily on the back as well. If a child is fussing in the back carry position for the first time, bringing them to a mirror, where they find comfort in seeing themselves, will settle them. Also, bouncing and movement will help. Get walking, get settled!
Do I need to have someone help me get my child into the carrier?
No – ERGObaby is all about freedom! You can definitely get your baby in the carrier by yourself without the help of anyone or anything. There is a little learning curve so we recommend you practice several times with the help of someone until you feel comfortable with the process. Kneeling in the middle of a big bed will also help you feel safe while test-driving your carrier. Older babies also become familiar and will help by lifting their leg and hanging on to your back. In the back carry position it also helps to practice in front of a mirror so both you and your baby can make visual connection with what you are doing.
Can I face my baby out when I wear her on the front?
No, the ERGObaby Carrier has a generously wide pouch that supports a correct sitting position for the baby's hip, pelvis and spine growth. It disperses most of the baby's weight between the hips and thighs and helps prevent compression of the spine. This ergonomic 'seated' position is unlike a typical front pack carrier that has a narrow pouch and consequently hangs the baby by the crotch in a 'parachute-style' position. A baby can only face forward if the pouch is narrow, which facilitates inward or outward orientations. ERGObaby has prioritised the best possible support for baby rather than the ability to face out.

The ERGObaby carrier has also been designed in compliance with the recommendations of Dr. Evelin Kirkilionis, who claims that carriers should never be worn with babyfacing out.
According to Kirkilionis: "Infants in outward-facing orientations can't turn away from surrounding stimuli. They can't turn inward toward a parent's body if stimuli become overwhelming. In this position the baby cannot make eye contact with his or her parent to evaluate facial expressions, social cues, and so forth to make assessment of the situation. Only choose a baby carrier that allows your child to face you, never out. There are too many events going on around your baby. A baby has no way to exclude himself from the environment by turning his head away and towards you. Healthy sleep is difficult for a baby who is facing outward. I am not a supporter of the outward facing method of carrying a child."

From - A Baby Wants To Be Carried by Dr. Eveline Kirkilionis (available in German)
Dr. Kirkilionis is a human development specialist who has researched babywearing since 1985.
Can I nurse my child in the ERGObaby carrier?
Yes, nursing is very easy with the ERGObaby carrier. Just loosen the shoulder straps so that your baby is sitting lower. With an older baby you will have to pull your breast up to their mouth level.
How long will the extended sleeping hood last?
When a child reaches 61cm in length, measured from the tailbone to the head, the hood will be extended to its fullest.
Have you experienced anyone wearing the ERGObaby carrier throughout pregnancy?
Yes, many women have safely used the ERGObaby carrier throughout their pregnancy. However, this is very much an individual preference and we recommend that you consult your health care practitioner if you choose to continue to carry your toddler beyond your fifth month of pregnancy.
Is it possible to use two waist extensions with the carrier?
ERGObaby recommends the use of one ERGObaby waist extension with a carrier, as two compromises the integrity of the carrier. Please note that the NEW ERGObaby Sport has a longer waistband and shoulder straps than the standard carrier. For further details, see the last question below.
I am medium sized with a large bust. The chest straps seem very tight in the front or back carry position. What can I do?
First, make sure the shoulder straps and chest strap are loose enough for you and your baby's comfort, but not so loose as to compromise the integrity of the carrier. Then try wearing the chest strap higher on your chest. If neither of these solutions work, it is possible to wear the chest strap under your bust line. Be aware that the shoulder straps can slide off of your shoulders much easier in this position than they could if the chest strap were at your chest. Please note that the NEW ERGObaby Sport has a longer waistband and shoulder straps than the standard carrier. For further details, see the last question below.
Can the ERGObaby be used with twins?
We have had many parents of two or more children or twins send pictures of themselves wearing both of the babies in ERGObaby carriers, one on the front and one on the back. It is not recommended to use the infant insert in the back or hip carry position.
I have a framed backpack carrier and wonder how your carrier compares with it.
The main differences between a framed carrier and the ERGObaby carrier relate to weight distribution, comfort and ease. The ERGObaby carrier's ergonomic design supports a correct sitting position for the baby's hip, pelvis and spine growth. It disperses most of the baby's weight between the hips and thighs and helps prevent compression of the spine. This is a healthier and more comfortable seated position for your baby as opposed to being hung by the crotch. The ERGObaby carrier also alleviates physical stress for the parent by balancing the baby's weight to parents' hips and shoulders. Again, this is a healthier and more comfortable carrying position. An adult's center of gravity is unchanged with the use of the ERGObaby carrier; in framed backpack carriers, the adult's center of gravity is raised to mid to upper back. The ERGObaby carrier is also the perfect travel companion as it can be compacted into a baby bag when not in use unlike a bulky rigid frame back pack that must be worn whether baby is in or out.
I feel like I have to bend forward to feel like he is sitting upright... it feels like he could flip out backwards, what am I doing wrong?
The shoulder straps may be too loose. If you are in an upright 'normal' stance, i.e. not leaning forward or backward to balance the added weight of your child on your body, then you have the carrier correctly positioned. If not, tighten the shoulder straps so that your baby is being held closer to your body. With their legs down around your waist and their body strapped close to yours, your child is secure in the carrier.
Dyes: Well established facts.
ERGObaby is always looking to be a leader in making our product line as organic as possible. To this end we will soon be offering un-dyed organic sucking pads. To date there is no dye available that offers acceptable color fastness. Several companies (in Europe and India) are working currently on developing colorfast vegetable dyes. We will use these in our manufacturing as soon as they are on the market and will keep our customers advised.

Poor color fastness performance is the main reason 99+% of all commercial dyeing is done now using synthetic dyes. In addition Vegetable dyes have poor performance with exposure to light and saliva. These are the reasons major dye producers developed a class of non toxic dyes called Low Impact Fiber Reactive Dyes. These dyes have very high absorption to cotton fiber and consequently use less dye stuff. All major global certification standards in the US, Europe & Japan for organic fiber processing (NOP, IFOAM, GOTS, etc.) have accepted the use of these low impact dyes. Many highly qualified chemists wrote, critically reviewed and approved these standards. ERGObaby feels confident with these facts in our use of Low Impact Fiber Reactive Dyes.
What changes have been recently made to the ERGObaby carrier?
The size and overall function of the ERGObaby carrier remains the same, however, there were a few updates made in June 2007:
1. CHEST STRAPS & RUNNER - The chest straps are now permanently attached to the shoulder straps with a "runner", that keep the chest straps in their desired location. The chest straps won't need readjusting each time the carrier is taken on and off. This new design also eliminates losing the straps when switching to the hip carry position. The runners are dyed to match the carrier and enhance the overall look of the carrier.
  Note: When using the carrier in the hip position, one chest strap may feel in the way. To alleviate: slide the chest strap out of your way, tuck the strap under the runner, or ask for assistance in connecting the two chest straps in the back (if you are not a yogi!).
2. HOOD & HOOD STRAPS - The hood straps are now shorter and snap directly onto the shoulder straps. Elastic has been added to the hood, to provide more length to make up for the shorter straps. The hood will now "cup" around your baby's head. One single D-ring has been provided on the shoulder strap for your personal use.
3. NEW BOX - The carrier, front pouch, backpack and infant insert now come in a new ERGObaby box. The handle of the box denotes the color of the carrier, and there will be a color dot indicator on the box denoting the color of the carrier lining.
What are the differences between the ERGObaby New Generation II vs. the NEW ERGObaby Sport?
The ERGObaby Sport Carrier is an exciting new design! Made of a blend of 35% cotton and 65% polyester, the lighter, more-breathable fabric provides a slight wicking feature to help keep babywearers more comfortable. The carrier's body features a vent to provide additional breathability, keeping both baby and parent cooler. The waist belt can extend an additional 12 cm further than our Standard or Organic carriers, and the shoulder straps can extend an extra 10 cm, providing comfortable fit for babywearers of all sizes. The Sleeping Hood is completely detachable and can be stored in the built-in pocket.
- SLEEPING HOOD
  NEW GEN II: The SLEEPING HOOD has elastic added to both sides to better fit to your baby's head. The HOOD STRAPS feature one D-ring for personal use, rather than two D-rings with loops, as in the previous version.
  SPORT: The Sleeping Hood is completely detachable and can be stored in the built-in pocket.
- BODY
  NEW GEN II: The BODY of the carrier is padded with 100% cotton batting and lined with 100% cotton poplin. Shaped darts help create an accentuated pouch to hold your baby.
  SPORT: The BODY is made of a blend of 35% cotton and 65% polyester. The lighter, more-breathable fabric provides a slight wicking feature to help keep babywearers more comfortable. The carrier's body features a vent to provide additional breathability, keeping both baby and parent cooler.
- WAIST BELT
  NEW GEN II: The padded WAIST BELT adjusts down to 63.5 cm, with a 5 cm wide buckle and elastic safety loop. The padded WAIST BELT features reinforced buckles with elastic safety loops to ensure maximum buckle security. Extra length can be rolled up and secured under elastic loops at the end of the strap.
  SPORT: The WAIST BELT has an additional 12 cm more than our Standard or Organic carriers. The ERGObaby Sport's WAIST BELT adjusts down to 76 cm. The padded WAIST BELT features reinforced buckles with elastic safety loops to ensure maximum buckle security. Extra length can be rolled up and secured under elastic loops at the end of the strap.
- SHOULDER STRAPS
  NEW GEN II: The SHOULDER STRAPS are curved, and offer longer padding to accommodate longer torsos. The SHOULDER STRAP BUCKLES are newly designed and reinforced, with elastic at the ends to store extra length.
  SPORT: The SHOULDER STRAPS can extend an extra 10 cm, providing comfortable fit for babywearers of all sizes. The SHOULDER STRAPS are curved, and offer longer padding to accommodate longer torsos. The SHOULDER STRAP BUCKLES are newly designed and reinforced, with elastic at the ends to store extra length.
- BACK POCKET
  NEW GEN II: The BACK POCKET is closed at the top and features a side zipper closure and a small pocket for storage of the Sleeping Hood.
  SPORT: The zippered pocket has been replaced by a pocket with snaps for Sleeping Hood storage.
- CHEST STRAP
  NEW GEN II: The CHEST STRAP features "runners" around the shoulder straps to secure the chest strap and prevent it from being removed and misplaced.
  SPORT: The CHEST STRAP features "runners" around the shoulder straps to secure the chest strap and prevent it from being removed and misplaced.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS
  NEW GEN II: The CARE INSTRUCTIONS are sewn on the inside of the carrier.
  SPORT: The CARE INSTRUCTIONS are sewn on the inside of the carrier.

Peanut Shell

Why the Peanut Shell® Baby Sling?
If you are in need to free up your hands while spending quality time nurturing your baby, a baby sling is a perfect way to go. If you are in need of a comfortable option to show off your baby in style, the Peanut Shell® baby sling is for you. There are no straps, clips, belts, or adjustments necessary. Functional and flirty the Peanut Shell® baby sling can be used for the first few years of your baby's life (up to 16kgs).
How do I pick a size if I am pregnant?
Our sizing charts offer information to help you measure for the right size based on pre-pregnancy. You may also want to watch our DVD that goes over pregnancy sizing. If you are currently pregnant and trying out your new sling you will probably find that it feels too small. This is completely normal and we HIGHLY recommend not exchanging until after your baby is born. It is extremely difficult to determine if the sling will fit correctly until after the baby is born. You may find that once the belly goes down and with baby inside that the sling is a perfect fit! However, please keep all original packaging and invoices handy in case you do need to exchange.
Is my Peanut Shell® baby sling too big?
With your baby inside the sling the lowest part of baby's body should hit at your hip bones or above. If your baby is inside the sling and their body is riding below this, the sling is probably too big. First ensure that you have the sling on correctly before exchanging your Peanut Shell®.
Is my Peanut Shell® baby sling too small?
First, always be sure to try the sling with the baby inside to determine if you have the correct fit. If you can get your baby in the sling (even if it is a little difficult at first) then you probably have the right size. It does take a little practice and getting used to, but the sling should fit snug AND be comfortable.
Is the Peanut Shell® baby sling like other types of slings?
The Peanut Shell® baby sling has our original slimmer cut on the shoulder eliminating excess bulk, and a perfectly deep pouch that gives your baby the most comfortable ride from infancy through toddlerhood. All of our slings are rigorously tested to the highest of standards. Our styles and fabrics show our fearless sense of style. We have a pouch to match any weather, wearer and want!
Is there padding on the Peanut Shell® baby sling?
All of our cotton slings have sleek leg padding. It is a nice little addition for the hip carry or tummy to tummy (if the baby's legs are out). The padding does not add any bulk to the sling or make the sling any warmer. For our micro-fleece Peanut Shell® baby slings there is not a need for padding because the fabric stretches more.
Do I need to adjust my sling as my baby grows?
No, that is another benefit of our sling! The different carrying positions will accommodate a growing baby in the same sling. The Peanut Shell® baby sling is perfect for babies up to 16kgs.
Does the sling stretch out with extended wear?
No, we use fabrics that hold their shape over time. The pouch will stretch about with wear, just like clothes, but goes back to normal after washing.
Newborn Placement in sling
Please visit our video on our Instructions page or YouTube for how to put a baby in the sling properly. Link to YouTube
I now carry my baby to the hip carry and my sling is now too big. Why?
A bigger baby actually takes up less room in the pouch so contrary to what you might think, a lot of people can wear a smaller size with a toddler. Here is a tip that helps too: Do a shoulder tuck with the sling. You do this by pulling the top layer of fabric on your shoulder down & back over your shoulder. This will pull the baby in toward you (kind of like doubling up the fabric). This is also a great way to show off your reversible Peanut Shell®! If you still feel like it is too large or the baby rides too low (or leans too far back) you may need to order a smaller size.
Can I breastfeed in the Peanut Shell® baby sling?
You sure can, this is another great use! If you don't seem to get it down then pick up a Nursing Cover in a coordinating print.

Hug-a-Bub

How easy is the hug-a-bub® to put on?
While the hug-a-bub® may look complicated to use, it is actually as simple as tying your shoelaces. It does take a little extra time to put on than a side sling; but those few extra seconds pay off with hours of comfortable baby carrying. We liken the hug-a-bub® to a hiking boot. It may take longer to put on than a sandal but you wouldn't want to be wearing sandals walking up a mountain!
Does it put pressure on my baby's spine like other front pack carriers?
In a typical front pack carrier a baby sits upright with all their body weight on their soft and developing spine, which may cause compression of the vertebrae. Unlike a front pack carrier, the hug-a-bub® does not place your baby's coccyx in a load bearing position. Instead, your baby's weight is drawn in towards your torso, eliminating pressure on their vertebrae. The hug-a-bub® has been thoroughly tested and is recommended by Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Physiotherapists.
When can my baby face outward?
As soon as babies are able to hold their head up themselves (usually around 3-4 months) you can place them in the face outward position ('on the go'). Some babies are so interested in the world around them that they love this position. Others may enjoy it for short periods of time when out and about but prefer to have visual contact with mum or dad. The hug-a-bub® is always tied the same way, the only difference is that you need to tie it a little more firmly for this position, as your baby's weight moves slightly away from you, stretching the fabric more than usual.
What can I do if my baby feels restricted?
If your baby feels restricted, try leaving one or both arms out of the straps at first. Wait until your baby relaxes before using the head support and wherever possible go for a short walk to settle them into it. For older babies try either the face out position or the Koala cuddle (face in, arms free).
How do I take my baby out?
You simply part the front wraps that are over your baby's body, place your hands under their armpits and lift them directly upwards. The baby is always taken out of the hug-a-bub® before you take it off. The hug-a-bub can be left on until the next time you want to put them in again.
Is it suitable for my premature baby?
The hug-a-bub® is perfect for premature infants because it is tied to fit your baby, no matter how tiny or large! In a hug-a-bub® a ‘premie' baby can be carried either upright with their head supported against the parents chest or in a laying position (called 'peapod') with absolutely no risk of the baby falling out. The hug-a-bub® can be worn under a shirt to provide skin-to skin contact as recommended with Kangaroo care. The hug-a-bub® is currently being used in Neo-natal Intensive Care Units throughout Australia.
Up to what age / weight can I carry my baby in a hug-a-bub®?
There is no weight or age limit for the hug-a-bub because the carrier draws your child's weight into your body rather than dragging from your shoulders. It was designed to allow parents to carry children for longer episodes of time. Most babies over the age of 1 and a 1/2 years no longer desire to be carried as much, so wearing periods tend to be shorter and less frequent. The hug-a-bub® is most useful from birth until around 1 year. Keep your hug-a-bub® handy though for the times when your older child may be ill and clingy, wanting to be held a lot.
What kind of head support does it offer?
The hug-a-bub® supports a baby's head against your body in the same way as your hand cradles their head when you are carrying them close. The hug-a-bub® offers complete support for newborn or sleeping baby's head and neck using the soft, wide shoulder wraps.
Is a hug-a-bub® washable?
The hug-a-bub® is made from 100% cotton and can be treated in the same way you would a T-shirt. It can be thrown in the wash and dryer regularly. Colours will fade less when dried out of direct sunlight.
Will the hug-a-bub® fade?
The hug-a-bub® fabrics are colourfast and can be washed in the washing machine as mentioned above. However with all 100% cotton t-shirt fabrics, fading will occur on darker colours from the sun and daylight. To achieve a higher fade resistant cloth we must use a fabric with synthetic fibres. We believe, as health professionals do, it is more important to have natural fibres against your baby's skin that it is to have a fabric that will fade less. We hope that you agree. If fading is not desirable for you, we suggest you select a lighter colour where fading will be considerably less.
Does hug-a-bub® meet safety standards?
The hug-a-bub® has been tested and approved by strict EU Safety Standards. Although there are no official safety standards currently available for baby carriers at this time, hug-a-bub is applauded by physiotherapists, childcare professionals, midwives, occupational therapists and is used in special care nurseries in hospitals. When worn correctly a baby cannot fall out of a hug-a-bub®.
Isn't it too hot in summer?
On hot days most of us do not relish the idea of having a hot sweaty baby wrapped to our body, but the hug-a-bub is deceptively comfortable even in summer. The fabric is no different to a T-shirt. It breathes and can be adjusted to cover less of your body and allow for air flow. During hot summer months you may find you use your hug-a-bub® more frequently indoors, in the mornings and evenings. We recommend the wearing of cool, natural fibre clothing for both you and your baby.

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Frequently asked questions

ERGObaby

Peanut Shell

Hug-a-Bub

BabyLegs