Babywearing Safety: CPSC Rules for Slings and Carriers
The CPSC warns that slings can suffocate infants in the first few months. Here is its advice in plain steps, plus what the federal sling standard requires.
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. This does not change which products we cover. How we make money.
Carrying a baby on your body is common and convenient. It also carries a real risk in the early months. The CPSC has warned that slings can suffocate infants, especially in the first four months. It counted 159 sling-related incidents, including 17 deaths, between 2003 and September 2016.
Why young babies are at risk
A baby in the first months cannot control their head well. The CPSC describes two hazards. In one, the sling’s fabric presses against the baby’s nose and mouth. In the other, the baby is held in a curled position with the chin bent toward the chest, which can restrict breathing. A baby in this situation may be unable to cry for help.
The checklist
- Face visible. You should be able to see your baby’s face at all times. Keep it above the rim of the sling or carrier.
- Nose and mouth clear. No fabric, and no pressing into your body.
- Chin off the chest. Avoid the curled C-shape.
- Reposition after feeding. If you nurse in a sling, move the baby back to a face-up position with the head up and clear afterward.
- Check often. Glance down frequently, especially with a newborn.
- Take extra care with high-risk babies. That means babies under 4 months, babies born prematurely or at low birthweight, and babies with colds or breathing trouble. Talk with your pediatrician first.
What the federal sling standard covers
Slings made after January 30, 2018 must meet a federal standard. It requires slings to hold three times the manufacturer’s maximum recommended weight without breaking. It also requires warning labels and pictures showing correct positions. Soft structured carriers have their own ASTM standard, F2236. BabyBjörn, for example, says its Harmony meets it.
Choosing a carrier
Follow the minimum weight and the position rules in the manual. Most structured carriers start at 7 lb and only allow forward-facing once the baby is bigger. Ergobaby says front-out from 14 lb and 25 in, for example. Our best baby carriers roundup lists these limits for four models, and our Omni Deluxe vs Harmony comparison goes into detail on two.
For sleep, never let a baby nap in a carrier once you can take them out. Move them to a flat, bare sleep space, as in our safe sleep checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Which babies are most at risk in a sling?
The CPSC says to take extra care with babies younger than 4 months, babies born prematurely or at low birthweight, and babies with colds or breathing problems. It suggests asking your pediatrician before using a sling.
Is there a federal safety standard for slings?
Yes. Slings made after January 30, 2018 must meet a federal standard that includes load testing to three times the maximum rated weight and warning labels.
How do I report a carrier problem?
Report incidents at SaferProducts.gov or call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772.
