Newborn baby carrier: guide to choosing it and using it correctly

The first months with a baby are full of unique moments, but also of days when it seems impossible to be apart from them. A baby carrier lets us keep them close while regaining freedom of movement and enjoying that contact in a comfortable way.

However, not all carriers are suitable from the same moment for all babies. Choosing an ergonomic model and checking that it adapts correctly to their size and development is essential to enjoy comfortable and safe babywearing.

Can a baby carrier be used with a newborn?

Yes, as long as the carrier adapts correctly to the baby's body and development.

Although Somomu carriers are suitable from 4 kg, reaching this weight does not necessarily mean that all babies are ready to use them at the same time. Every baby has a different growth rate and different proportions: some may be able to use them earlier, while others will need to wait a little longer.

The key is to check that the legs come out correctly on both sides of the carrier, without forcing them open, and that the panel fits from knee crease to knee crease.

If the legs do not come out comfortably or the panel is still too wide for the baby, it is better to wait and try again later.

For premature babies, babies with low birth weight, or babies with any medical condition, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional or a babywearing consultant first.

Weight is not the only important factor

The minimum weight indicated by the manufacturer is a necessary reference, but it should not be the only criterion for starting to use a baby carrier.

Before using it, we should observe how the baby fits inside the carrier. For the fit to be correct, their legs must be able to come out comfortably on both sides and the fabric must support them from knee crease to knee crease, without going past them or forcing the hips open.

Therefore, even if the baby already weighs 4 kg, we must carefully check that the carrier fits their body and respects their natural posture.

How should the baby be positioned?

During the first few months, the baby's body is still developing. An ergonomic baby carrier should support their natural posture, without forcing them into a rigid or unnatural position.

To check that it is positioned correctly, we need to pay attention to several aspects:

• The legs should come out comfortably on both sides of the carrier.
• The knees should be slightly higher than the bottom, forming the well-known “M” position.
• The opening at the hips should not be forced.
• The panel should support the baby from one knee crease to the other.
• The back should keep its natural curve, slightly rounded.
• The pelvis should be tilted and supported against the wearer's body.
• The head and neck must be properly supported, especially when there is still no head control.
• The face should always remain visible.
• The nose and mouth must be completely clear.
• The baby should be high enough for you to be able to kiss their head easily.

How to choose a baby carrier for a newborn

Check the recommended minimum weight

Before buying a carrier, always check the weight range indicated by the manufacturer.

Somomu carriers are suitable from 4 to 20 kg. However, it is essential to check that the baby has the necessary development and size for the legs to come out correctly and for the panel to fit their body.

Check the leg position

This is one of the most important points for knowing whether the baby can already use the carrier.

The legs should come out easily on both sides, without getting trapped inside the panel and without having to force them open. If this is not yet possible, the baby needs to grow a little more before using it.

Look for good head and neck support

During the first few months, the baby still cannot hold their head up independently. That is why the carrier must provide proper support for the head and neck.

Somomu carriers include a padded, adjustable neck support that adapts to the baby's growth and supports the different stages of development, offering the support they need until they gain better head control.

Make sure it respects their natural posture

The baby should sit snugly and supported, with the knees slightly higher than the bottom. The carrier should not leave their legs hanging or keep their back completely straight.

Keep the comfort of the wearer in mind

A good carrier should not only care for the baby. It must also distribute their weight evenly to avoid discomfort in the shoulders, neck, and lower back.

Somomu carriers include padded shoulder straps, a lumbar belt, and a crossed back to distribute weight better and provide a comfortable fit.

Choose an easy-to-put-on carrier

An intuitive carrier makes everyday life much easier, especially when we need to put the baby in without help.

Somomu models feature a three-click system designed to make the process quick, simple, and easy to fit into your daily routine.

How to position the baby correctly

Before you begin, prepare the carrier following the model's instructions for use.

Place the waistband at the proper height and fasten it firmly. During the first few months, it is usually positioned a little higher so the baby stays close to the chest.

Place the baby facing you, always inward-facing, and gently settle their pelvis. Check that their legs come out correctly on both sides before extending the panel over their back.

Then, put on the shoulder straps and tighten the straps gradually. The baby should stay close to your body, but without excessive pressure.

Before you start walking, check that:

• The legs come out comfortably on both sides.
• The hip opening is not forced.
• The panel reaches from one knee crease to the other.
• The knees are slightly higher than the bottom.
• The back keeps its natural curve.
• The head and neck have proper support.
• The face is visible.
• The nose and mouth are clear.
• The chin is not resting against the chest.
• The carrier is properly adjusted and not loose.

You can do the first placements in front of a mirror to better check the posture. If you have doubts, ask a babywearing consultant for help.

Common mistakes when using a baby carrier

One of the most common mistakes is starting to use the carrier only because the baby has already reached the recommended minimum weight.

Weight is an important reference, but we also need to check that the legs come out correctly and that the panel adapts to their body without forcing the hips open.

Other common mistakes are:

• Leaving the baby too low.
• Wearing the carrier too loosely.
• Not providing enough support for the head and neck.
• Covering the baby's face.
• Allowing the chin to rest against the chest.
• Forcing the legs to open or spread apart.
• Use the carrier when the panel is still too wide.
• Place the newborn facing forward.

During this first stage, the baby should always face the person carrying them.

How long can the baby stay in the carrier?

There is no single duration that is the same for every family. What matters is observing the baby, checking their position often, and taking breaks as needed.

If the baby is calm, breathing normally, and maintaining a proper posture, we can continue babywearing. If they show discomfort, are too warm, change position, or need to feed, we should take them out and attend to their needs.

It is also advisable to periodically check that the straps remain properly adjusted and that the position has not changed with movement.