Getting Started
IMPORTANT: Read all instructions and warnings before using your carrier. Failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions can result in death or serious injury. Keep instructions and review them before attempting new carrying positions.
Tips for getting started: Make sure that both you and your baby are well rested, fed, and in a quiet, familiar environment. It can be a good idea to practice putting your baby in the carrier while seated. This position will allow you more stability and better arm coordination. Breastfeeding in the carrier can also be a positive reinforcement and bonding experience for you and your baby.
1) Check for correct size
See sizing for more info.
2) Check that your carrier is correctly folded
ATTENTION: It is important that the carrier is folded correctly to ensure proper use, comfort, and safety.
Folding instructions: In order for the carrier to be worn correctly, it must be folded correctly. After washing your carrier you will need to fold it back into its original configuration in order to use it properly. First, find the tacking stitch which holds the two edges together (this can serve as your guide). Place one hand on the tacking stitch. Then find the seam at the bottom of the carrier and bring the two edges together with your other hand. Holding both ends, give the whole carrier a quick shake like you would when folding a sheet so you can spread the carrier out nice and flat. See figure 2.2.
3) Putting the carrier on
4) Placing your baby in the carrier
ATTENTION: Please attempt while seated until experienced.
5) Tips
Check out our YouTube channel for additional carrying positions!
Fussy babies
If your baby appears to be fussy when in the carrier try these tips.
• Arrange a folded towel, receiving blanket, or one of our Infant Support Pillows under the baby from the baby’s bottom to the top of their head. Position the baby so that he/she may see out.
• Turn your baby around, facing the opposite direction from the manner in which figure 4.5 depicts. This way the pouch is more shallow.
Babies sitting up
When your baby is old enough to sit up and hold its head up, you can try the hip carry position (please view our YouTube tutorial for proper instruction on this position). At this stage (under two years old), your baby will likely prefer having their legs in the carrier rather than hanging over the bottom edge. If your baby has gotten used to being carried in the upright position, then this method of carrying will likely be preferred.
Nursing or sleeping babies
To nurse, slide your baby near your breast. Pull the inside carrier fabric down to sufficiently expose your breast and help your baby latch on. Tiny babies need support from one of your arms until they can reach your breast on their own. For more private nursing or sleeping, carefully place your baby towards the inside of the carrier so that the outside fabric blocks your baby and breast. Maintain visual contact with your baby at all times to ensure their safety. Return your baby to a SAFE carrying position as soon as your baby is done breastfeeding.
New Native® Infant Support Pillow
Oxygenation studies show that inserting additional support inside of a carrier, behind a baby, will help support the baby’s body and improve oxygenation. This promotes oxygenation by raising the baby’s chin to a proper neck position. The New Native® Infant Support Pillow is specifically designed to provide this support. Place the Infant Support Pillow inside the carrier behind the baby, from the baby’s bottom to the top of their head. If you do not have a New Native® Infant Support Pillow, a folded towel or receiving blanket may be used instead. Please view our YouTube channel for proper instructions. If you still have questions please call us right away. (800) 646-1682
Care instructions
Retailers of our products may not accept returns or exchanges after the carrier has been washed. Check with your place of purchase for their return and exchange policy before washing. Machine wash light colors in warm water. Do not bleach! Wash dark carriers with like colors in cold water. Tumble dry on low setting. Remove promptly.
6) Positioning
Make sure your baby is Visible & Kissable™ at all times!
Visible & Kissable is a trademark of BCIA, registered in the U.S.A.