Baby Carrier Safety: Guidelines & Tips

Follow these safety guidelines (along with T.I.C.K.S) to enjoy safe, comfortable babywearing while using your Marsupi baby carrier.

Marsupi Safety Tips

These guidelines are specific to all Marsupi Baby Carriers

  • Weight

    Marsupi is designed and tested for babies between 3.5-15kg.

  • Carry Positions

    Marsupi is designed for front and side carry only. It is not suitable for forward facing or back carry.

  • Baby’s Face

    You should be able to tilt your head down to see baby’s face. Keep their mouth and nose uncovered and chin off their chest. When using our additional head support, snap up one side, leaving the other open for clearer visibility and oxygen supply to your child.

  • Baby’s Position

    Baby should sit in an ‘M-position’, legs spread, knees bent and level with their belly button, with a C curve shaped spine.

  • Newborns

    Use the newborn tether to reduce the width of the carrier base. The snap fastened head support can provide extra head support to very young or sleeping babies.

  • Your Position

    The waist strap should sit snugly around your midsection, above your belly button. For a newborn, the waist belt needs to be even higher (under your bust). The Marsupi logo should be clearly visible.

  • Straps

    Ensure the velcro straps are clean, with at least 12cm of each strap attached to the carrier body. Always support your baby with one hand while securing or adjusting the straps.

  • On-the-Move

    Take extra care, especially when bending or leaning forward. Your balance may be impacted by yours and your child’s movements. Don’t attempt sporting activities while using your carrier.

  • Removing

    Always remove your baby from the carrier before opening the waist belt.

T.I.C.K.S Rules

TICKS is a set of rules created to help parents babywear safely.

T.I.C.K.S. stands for:

  • Tight
  • In view at all times
  • Close enough to kiss
  • Keep chin off chest
  • Supported back

T is for tight

Your sling or baby carrier should be tight, with your baby held close against your body. Loose fabric or buckles can allow your baby to slump, which can make it difficult for him to breathe. A loose sling or carrier can also strain your back.

I is for in view at all times

You should be able to see your baby's face by glancing down. Make sure that the fabric of your sling or baby carrier is clear from his head and face. You shouldn't need to move any fabric to be able to see him.

C is for close enough to kiss

Your baby should be positioned as high on your chest as you find comfortable. If you tip your head forward, you should be able to kiss the top of their head.

K is for keep chin off the chest

Your baby should not be in a position where his chin is forced onto his chest as this can restrict his breathing. Make sure you can put at least one finger between his chin and his chest to keep him safe.

S is for supported back

Your baby's back should be supported in its natural position so it isn't bent or twisted. Place a hand on his back and gently press. He should not uncurl or move closer to you.

Hip-healthy position

For a healthy hip position, make sure that the pouch or base of your carrier is wide, with your baby's legs supported to the knees. This will create an M shape, where his bottom is the middle trough and his knees rest above his hips as the peaks. This position is particularly important if you have a newborn, or if your baby has hip dysplasia or other hip problems. In these cases, your baby's legs should never hang straight down.

 

Warning: All baby carriers come with a fall hazard and suffocation risk. Follow all guidelines and only use as intended.

Need More Support?

Watch our babywearing tutorial videos to see what safe babywearing looks like or reach out to our team with any questions.

See the Tutorials