When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling?

Babywearing is a cherished practice for many parents. It offers a unique way to bond with their little ones while keeping their hands free for other tasks. It fosters physical closeness, creating a sense of security for babies and convenience for caregivers.

When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling? The decision is highly personal and varies from family to family. There’s no universal timeline, as each child’s needs and developmental pace differ. Parents are encouraged to focus on what works best for their child’s growth and lifestyle.

This guide will help you understand When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling, ensuring you make an informed decision supporting your child’s development and your family’s needs.

Key Considerations for Deciding When to Stop

Deciding when to stop babywearing depends on various factors, including your child’s development, comfort, and the changing needs of both parent and baby. Let’s understand the key factors to look for.

Physical Development

Infants (0–4 Months):

During the newborn stage, babies thrive on close physical contact, which mirrors the secure environment they experienced in the womb. A newborn carrier or one equipped with inserts provides optimal support, allowing your baby to snuggle comfortably in the fetal position while staying safe and secure.

4–8 Months:

As your baby grows, it becomes more curious and aware of its surroundings. Babywearing during this phase lets it observe the world while staying close to you. Ensure the carrier maintains an ergonomic position, with legs in an “M” shape and hips supported, to promote healthy hip development.

8–18 Months:

At this stage, babies are increasingly engaged with their environment, which may lead to fussiness in a carrier if they can’t see enough. Troubleshooting with a carrier that allows outward-facing positions or adjustable views can resolve this. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready to stop being carried, but they might need a new way to explore.

18 Months–4 Years:

The sling might be used less frequently as toddlers become more independent and mobile. However, slings remain invaluable for situations like naptime, when their legs tire, or when they need emotional comfort. Older toddlers may enjoy being carried occasionally, especially during stress or change, such as adjusting to a younger sibling or preschool challenges.

Activity Level

Around 18 months, many children prioritize ground exploration and walking, driven by their natural desire to develop physical independence.
Balancing their need for movement with opportunities for closeness is essential. A carrier can still be comforting during transitions, tired moments, or reconnecting during quiet times.

Practicality

Baby slings are incredibly practical for busy parents. They offer hands-free comfort for multitasking, navigating stroller-unfriendly environments, or traveling light.
As your child grows and becomes more active, you may naturally use the sling less often. This transition is usually child-led, as

Myths About Over-Carrying

Parents commonly worry that carrying a child too long might delay their independence. However, research and experience suggest otherwise. Babywearing nurtures independence by creating a secure foundation for your child to explore the world.

This idea aligns with attachment theory, emphasizing the importance of a stable, trusting caregiver-child relationship. When children feel safe and connected to their parents, they develop confidence in their ability to venture out and return to a “home base“ when needed. Far from fostering dependence, babywearing reinforces this secure attachment, which can result in more adventurous, resilient, and self-assured children.

Related Article: Will a baby carrier help with colic?

At what age did you stop using a sling?

These are the recommendation from the parents experiences.

Common Stopping Ages for Sling Use

Infants (up to 12 months): Many parents transition away from slings around 6–12 months, often as babies grow heavier and more active.
- Some noted stopping because their child preferred more freedom or became too heavy for front-carry positions.
Toddlers (12–24 months):
- Parents often switch to toddler-specific carriers for occasional use, particularly for naps, long walks, or situations where a stroller isn’t practical.
- Some parents stop entirely if their toddler prefers walking or if they find slings uncomfortable due to the child’s size.
Preschool Age (2–4 years):
- Several parents mentioned using preschooler carriers for occasional support, such as in airports, on long outdoor adventures, or when their child is too tired to walk.
- While uncommon, carrying up to age four or beyond is still practiced for convenience or emotional closeness.

Factors Influencing the Decision to Stop

Child’s Weight and Size: As children grow, their weight can make carrying challenging for some parents, even with ergonomic carriers.
Activity Level: Walking toddlers may prefer exploring on foot, reducing the need for a carrier.
Parental Comfort: Back carrying is often more comfortable for larger toddlers or preschoolers.
Lifestyle: Some parents keep using slings for specific situations (e.g., hiking, travel) even after regular use decreases.

Tips for Prolonged Use

Upgrade to a Toddler or Preschool Carrier: Brands like Tula and Ergo offer options for older children.
Try Back Carrying: Distributes weight more evenly, allowing the parent greater freedom.
Rent Before Buying: Renting toddler or preschool carriers helps you decide if continuing to buy babywear suits your needs.

Parents stopping at 6 months or carrying until age 4+ highlight the versatility of slings—adaptable to both practical needs and the family’s lifestyle.

When Not to Stop

While children naturally grow more independent, there are times when continuing to babywear remains beneficial for both practical and emotional reasons. Recognizing these moments ensures you don’t prematurely end a practice that still serves your family’s needs.

Recognizing Practical and Emotional Needs

Practical Needs:
- Navigating crowded or stroller-unfriendly places.
- Comforting a tired or overstimulated child during outings.
- Offering an easy way to carry a child during hikes or long walks.
Emotional Needs:
- Helping a child adjust to significant life changes, like a new sibling or starting preschool.
- Providing a safe space for a child during times of stress or illness.
- Reassuring your child with physical closeness after periods of separation.

Transitional Phases and Flexible Carriers

As your child grows, their preference for being carried may change throughout the day or week. During this “up-and-down“ phase, having a flexible, quick-use carrier allows you to adapt to their needs quickly. Options like toddler-sized carriers, or lightweight slings are ideal for offering comfort and support without adding bulk.

Babywearing doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Keeping your sling handy for those moments when it’s needed most ensures you and your child can continue to enjoy its benefits without unnecessary limitations.

Gradual Transition and Child-Led Decisions

One of the most natural ways to transition away from babywearing is to let your child take the lead. As children grow, they naturally express their preferences for walking, exploring, or being carried. By observing their cues, parents can gradually reduce the frequency of babywearing without causing distress or anxiety.

Child-Led Independence

Many children will signal when they’re ready to spend more time on the ground, whether through increased curiosity, confidence in walking, or a desire to explore independently.
Allowing your child to set the pace reinforces their autonomy and supports their developmental milestones.

Preparing for Natural Shifts

Accepting that babywearing is a phase rather than a permanent practice helps parents approach the transition without worry.
Keeping a sling available occasionally ensures you’re prepared for moments when your child seeks closeness or comfort, even as they become more independent.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Baby Slings

Baby slings provide a convenient and close way to carry your child, but they have benefits and potential drawbacks.

Advantages of Baby Slings

Promotes Secure Attachment
- Close physical contact enhances bonding between parent and baby.
- Research (e.g., Anisfeld et al.) shows that babies in carriers are more likely to develop secure attachments, which can positively impact their emotional development.
Reduces Crying
- Studies (e.g., Hunziker et al.) demonstrate that carrying babies for at least three hours daily significantly reduces daytime and nighttime crying.
- This soothes fussy infants, especially during challenging phases like the first six weeks.
Supports Physical and Emotional Regulation
- Babies experience stabilized heart rates and temperatures through skin-to-skin contact in slings.
- Babywearing provides comfort, especially for colicky or premature babies.
Hands-Free Convenience
- Parents can multitask while keeping their baby close, enabling activities like housework, shopping, or hiking.
- Useful in crowded or stroller-unfriendly spaces like airports or public transport.
Inclusive Bonding
- Allows other caregivers, such as fathers or grandparents, to connect with the baby.
- Shared baby-wearing responsibilities give moms a break while fostering family bonds.
Breastfeeding Aid
- With practice, slings can facilitate discreet, hands-free breastfeeding.

Disadvantages of Baby Slings

Safety Concerns
- Improper use of slings can lead to risks such as suffocation or falls, particularly for infants under 4 months.
- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued warnings about specific sling designs for newborns.
Learning Curve
- Using a sling correctly requires practice, especially when positioning the baby safely and comfortably.
- Breastfeeding in a sling or transitioning between positions can be challenging at first.
Physical Strain
- Wearing a baby for extended periods can cause back, shoulder, or neck strain, especially without a well-designed carrier or proper posture.
- Larger or heavier babies may become uncomfortable to carry for long durations.
Limited Use
- Some slings are better suited for newborns and become less practical as the baby grows or becomes more active.
- Parents may need to invest in multiple carriers as their child’s needs change.
Overheating Risks
- Babies can overheat if the carrier material is too thick or used in hot weather without proper ventilation.
Cost and Variety
- High-quality slings or carriers can be expensive.
- Choosing the right sling from the many available options can overwhelm new parents.

How to Keep Your Baby Safe in a Sling, Wrap, or Carrier

Using a baby sling, wrap, or carrier can be a great way to bond with your baby and enjoy hands-free parenting, but safety is crucial. Follow these steps to ensure your baby is secure and comfortable:

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Please check the manufacturer’s guidance to determine whether the sling is suitable for your baby’s size, weight, and age.
If instructions need to be included (e.g., secondhand slings), contact the manufacturer or download a copy from their website.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

Before each use, examine the sling or carrier for any damage, such as frayed seams or weakened straps.
Do not use it if you notice any issues or have concerns about its safety.

Ensure Proper Positioning

Keep your baby upright with their body well-supported and snug against your chest.
Distribute the baby’s weight evenly across your shoulders, back, and hips for comfort and safety.

Check Baby’s Breathing

Ensure your baby’s nose and mouth are always transparent and unobstructed.
Keep their chin off their chest to prevent airway compression, especially for babies under four months old.

Monitor Regularly

Frequently check on your baby while in the sling to ensure they are comfortable, safe, and breathing easily.
Avoid covering your baby’s face with fabric or your clothing.

Use the T.I.C.K.S. Checklist

The UK Sling Consortium’s T.I.C.K.S. checklist provides simple, practical safety tips:

Tight: Ensure the sling or carrier is snug, holding your baby close to your body for support.
In View At All Times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face without needing to move fabric or adjust its position.
Close Enough to Kiss: Your baby should be positioned high enough on your chest that you can quickly kiss the top of their head.
Keep Chin Off Chest: Make sure there’s at least a finger-width of space under your baby’s chin to prevent airway restriction.
Supported Back: Ensure your baby’s back is straight, not slumped, and supported naturally.

By following these guidelines and the T.I.C.K.S. checklist, you can enjoy the benefits of babywearing while keeping your little one safe and secure.

Related Article: Are carriers safe for newborns?

When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling-Finally Known

When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling ? The decision is as unique as each parent-child relationship. By focusing on your child’s needs and developmental milestones, you can make a choice that supports their growth and your bond.

Babywearing is more than a practical tool—it’s a means of fostering connection and providing comfort during the early stages of life. As circumstances evolve, this versatile practice can adapt to meet changing needs, ensuring its benefits continue enriching your parenting journey.

Ultimately, the best time to transition from babywearing is when it feels right for you and your child. Trust your instincts, respond to your child’s cues, and cherish the moments of closeness that babywearing provides.

FAQ: When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling?

1. When should I stop covering my baby?

You can wrap your baby from birth until they start showing signs of rolling onto their tummy, typically around 3-4 months. After this stage, it’s important to transition them out of wraps for safety. Use lightweight cotton or muslin wraps, ensuring that the wrap doesn’t go above the baby’s shoulders or cover their head, ears, or chin.

2. When should I stop covering my baby’s hands when sleeping?

Once your baby starts rolling, it’s time to transition them out of a swaddle and allow their hands to be free. This helps prevent any risks associated with restricted movement and supports their development.

3. Are baby slings a good idea?

Baby slings and carriers can be a great hands-free solution for carrying your baby. They offer comfort and bonding time with your little one. However, it’s essential to use slings safely. While there is no conclusive evidence linking slings directly to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), there have been reported fatalities due to unsafe usage, such as suffocation risks or improper positioning.

4. What are the rules for using a sling with babies?

When using a baby sling, always make sure:

In View at All Times: You should be able to see your baby’s face by glancing down.
Keep the Fabric Clear: The fabric should not close around their face; you should never need to open it to check on them.
Cradle Position: If the baby is cradled, their face should be facing upwards, not toward your body, to ensure they can breathe easily.
Comfortable Fit: Ensure the baby is snug and supported in a natural position, with no risk of slumping or airway obstruction.

These guidelines help ensure safety and comfort for both parent and baby.

When Should You Stop Using a Baby Sling