Baby sling safety: What parents need to know following new warning

A call for clearer safety advice

The inquest into the death of James Alderman, a six-week-old baby who died while being breastfed in a sling, revealed critical gaps in safety information for parents.

Senior coroner Lydia Brown’s Prevention of Future Deaths Report stated that "very little" guidance exists on the safe use of slings, particularly during breastfeeding.

The coroner noted that James was in an unsafe position, too low in the sling, which caused his airway to become obstructed. Though resuscitation was attempted immediately, James passed away three days later.

The report urged manufacturers, the NHS, and the Department of Health and Social Care to introduce clearer safety standards, including visual aids illustrating safe and unsafe sling postures.

Recognising the risks

Baby slings can be a convenient way for parents to keep their babies close while freeing up their hands. However, improper use can pose serious risks.

The Lullaby Trust, a charity specialising in safer sleep advice, emphasised the need to keep infants in an upright position with their airways clear.

Slings and baby carriers are not inherently unsafe, but misuse or poor positioning can create risks, particularly for young infants.

The TICKS rules for safe babywearing

To minimise risks, experts recommend following the TICKS guidelines for sling use:

• Tight: The sling should hold your baby snugly against your body to avoid slumping.
• In view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face without moving the fabric.
• Close enough to kiss: Your baby’s head should be close enough to your chin to kiss easily.
• Keep chin off the chest: Ensure there’s at least a finger’s width of space under their chin to prevent airway obstruction.
• Supported back: Your baby’s back should be supported in its natural position, with their tummy and chest against you.

Avoiding common pitfalls

1. Low positioning: Babies positioned too low in a sling risk airway obstruction. Keep your baby high on your chest, not near your waist or hips.
2. Covered face: Avoid using slings that allow fabric to cover your baby’s face, which can make monitoring difficult.
3. Improper sling types: Avoid bag-style slings, as their deep pouches can force babies into a curved ‘C’ position that restricts airflow.

Can you breastfeed in a sling safely?

Breastfeeding in a sling can be practical, but it must be done with caution. Experts advise against hands-free breastfeeding for very young infants, as this can increase the risk of suffocation. If breastfeeding in a sling:

• Support the baby’s head and back: Use one hand to ensure proper alignment.
• Adjust the sling after feeding: Return your baby to an upright position with their head clear of your body and the sling fabric.

Choosing the right sling

Rebecca Ward of the Consortium of UK Sling Manufacturers and Retailers advises parents to choose slings that provide proper support and fit snugly. Safe options include:

• Shallow pouch-style slings
• Upright baby carriers
• Ring slings and wrap slings

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure the sling is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight.

Raising awareness for safer use

The Lullaby Trust and other safety organisations continue to push for better education about baby sling use. This includes clearer instructions from manufacturers and accessible resources for parents.

Baby slings are a wonderful way to bond with your baby and manage hands-free parenting, but they require mindful use. Following safety guidelines like the TICKS rules and ensuring proper positioning can help you carry your baby safely.

For more detailed guidance, visit trusted sources like The Lullaby Trust or The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

Read more:

• 10 of the best baby slings and wraps to carry babies from newborn to toddler age in comfort
• MFM Awards 2024 Winners – Baby carriers, slings and wraps
• Baby slings – how to wear one safely