What are the benefits of babywearing?

More than half of survey participants gave this as their main motivation for babywearing – demonstrating what we have always believed, that being able to hold your baby for longer periods increases your connection with your child. Babies are happiest when they are close to a parent or caregiver.

Another big motive for babywearing was the practical benefits of keeping hands free to look after siblings or carry out other tasks while still remaining close to the baby, with more than a third of participants citing this reason and 54% of all respondents saying that a baby carrier gives them flexibility. More than half of parents also noted the ability to be involved in everything their parents do – from hanging out the washing to chatting to the neighbours – as another benefit of babywearing.

Most parents surveyed use their baby carrier from birth (70.4%) or within the first two months (27.2%), so if you’re wondering whether a baby carrier is a good idea for the gift list the answer is yes! Both baby slings and newborn carriers can be used from birth as long as your baby meets the weight requirements.

86.7% of respondents found that their baby calmed down more quickly in a baby carrier and 83.7% said their baby fell asleep more quickly. In fact, 56% of parents said their babies generally cry less often in a baby carrier. And when their little ones are feeling poorly, 47.9% of parents said they liked to use a baby carrier as the closeness helps to soothe them.

Almost all (97.8%) of pregnant first-time birthing parents plan to use a baby carrier, with about half of them planning to buy one in the third trimester or shortly after the baby is born. Just under half of all respondents had used a baby carrier up to the age of 12 – 18 months, showing that baby carriers with the flexibility to adapt as your baby grows are well worth the investment.