Baby slings and child safety

Protect your pēpi – whether exploring the ngahere (forest) or popping to the shops.

What are the dangers?

A curved back with the chin resting on the chest.
Having their face pressed against the fabric of the sling or on the wearer’s body.

The carrier should provide support for the baby's body, head and neck. It should also hold your baby securely — crucial for when you want to keep your hands free, or when you need to bend down.
Check the size of the leg holes. Leg holes that are too big can let babies slip through — this has been the cause of product recalls in the United States.
Make sure there are no points, sharp edges, choking hazards, small loops, clips, or buckles to trap small fingers and toes. Check your carrier often for ripped seams, sharp edges, and loose or missing buckles.
Hold your baby over something soft — like a bed — when you put them in a carrier.
Check your baby can breathe freely at all times.

Ensure any sling you buy comes with detailed instructions for use. If a listing doesn't mention an instruction sheet, use the Q&A to ask if the seller can provide one or use the internet to find instructions.
Choose products that stop the baby from moving into a position where they can suffocate.
Choose products that are appropriate for your baby’s stage of development.
Don’t let anything block the baby’s face, such as the sling or your body. Keep in mind that small babies cannot turn their heads to get fresh air.
Don’t let the baby lie in a curved position with their chin resting on their chest. Any pressure on the chin can push the tongue back and close the airway.
Babies need to lie with a straight back and their head up. This helps ensure they have a clear airway so that the tummy muscles can pump old air out of the lungs and let new air in.

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