Cue all the mamas of wrap-loving babes holding their breath for the answer to this question. It’s one I get asked often in lots of different ways, but during a recent Q+A on Instagram, a sweet mama shared this, “How long should a baby be in the wrap? Mine could sleep FOR. HOURS. Is that safe?”
Rest assured, mama. If your little one loves the wrap, there’s no reason to withhold! As long as baby has proper positioning, is continuously monitored, and is out for regular changing and/or feeding, there’s no time limit for how long baby can be worn. Plus, we could tell you about the benefits of babywearing (physiological and otherwise) all day long.
Proper Positioning
The amount of time that baby spends in the wrap will differ from wearer to wearer and baby to baby, and often fluctuates as baby grows and develops. Ensuring that baby is positioned correctly by checking for TICKS is the fastest and easiest way to make certain that they’re comfortable.
Common Adjustments
Sometimes baby could spend hours in the wrap, but your back or shoulders don’t necessarily feel the same way. Our wraps were designed to be able to be worn for extended periods of time so if, as the wearer, you find yourself starting to feel uncomfortable, you might want to try making these common adjustments:
First, checking that your wrap is equally snug without any “sneaky slack” will ensure that you’re not putting strain on specific parts of your body more than others. Remember, when you’re tying on your wrap, it is not about how tight or loose you get it, but that you make sure everything is consistent. Nothing should feel tight or cinched, but it's just as important that no section of your wrap is loose or floppy before tying off, either. One thing that can help: Keep the long ends up around your natural waist when tying off your double-knot, not down around your hips. This will make all the difference! Watch this tutorial for a visual demonstration.
If you’re feeling pressure around your neck specifically, check to make sure that the straps near your shoulders aren’t bunched up. Fanning them out helps to spread the weight distribution of baby more evenly for your body and will allow you to stretch the amount of time you’re able to wear baby for.
If you’re still experiencing any discomfort while wearing the wrap, you can always send us a DM, email us, or schedule a 1:1 wrap consultation with me if walking through the process in real-time feels like the easiest option for you. Our hope is always that wearing your wrap is not only a comfortable experience, but an empowering one as well. We’re here to provide support and encouragement every step of the way!
