When To Stop Baby Wearing
Have you been wondering when to stop baby wearing?
Well, let us help put your mind at ease as we walk you through what age to stop babywearing.
Babywearing is no doubt a fantastic way to help parents bond with their baby while getting things done hands-free.
Babywearing is also fantastic for toddlers, especially on the go when you want them safe and secure or when they need a nap.
But at what stage do you need to consider stopping?
Is there a baby carrier age range?
Or a baby carrier weight limit?
Well, we are going to answer those questions and more in this guide on how long can you baby wear.
And if you love this guide on when to stop using a baby carrier, make sure to check out these guides on when can your baby face forward in carrier, baby carriers vs wraps, and best baby carriers for bad backs! Or these best carriers for toddlers!
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When To Stop Baby Wearing
Most baby carriers and baby wraps are suitable for a range of ages from newborns to toddlers and beyond.
But, with most things babies and parenting, when to stop babywearing is not a one size fits all type of situation.
So, let’s dive in an take a look at some factors that may impact when you stop baby wearing.
Crossing the Weight Limit
Most importantly every baby carrier and wrap has its own weight requirements, so it is important to check the manufacturers weight limits prior to use.
Especially if you are using your carrier for older children.
For example, the Lillebaby Carry-On Air Carrier comfortably holds toddlers up to 60lbs but has a minimum weight limit of 20lbs. This is in comparison to say the Baby Tula Free-to-Frow carrier that has a weight range of 7 to 45lbs.
So, when to stop baby wearing may simply come down to the carrier you have and if you’re willing to purchase a new one with an extended weight limit.
The Lillebaby Carry-On Air Carrier is a stand out for many reasons, but one of the key reasons is that it comfortably holds toddlers up to 60lbs.
We also love this carrier as it is one of the only carriers explicitly made for toddlers with a broader, taller torso panel and you can wear your toddler three different ways - as a hip carrier, front carrier, or back carrier.
It is also made with 100% cotton, so not only is it super breathable, but it also is easy to clean. Just toss it in the washing machine, and it comes out good as new!
Baby Wearing Becomes Uncomfortable
Baby wearing, if done correctly, should not cause you pain or injury.
However, if you have a preexisting injury baby wearing may aggravate it. At that point you need to weight up if baby wearing is worth risking further injury.
In other circumstances you may come to a point where the additional weight of carrying your child just becomes uncomfortable and prefer to stop baby wearing.
Time to Start Potty Training
If your little one is starting potty training, then you may want to consider stopping baby wearing, at least for the interim.
Why? Well, when your child is potty training they are just starting to learn the signs their body gives them that they need to go potty. This more often than not results in a very short amount of time to get them to the potty before they have an accident.
It they are wrapped up securely in their carrier, it is going to take additional time to get them to the potty potentially leading to accidents over you and your carrier.
Your Child No Longer Wants To Be Carried
There may come a time when your child simply doesn’t want to be carried anymore.
If your child starts to spends less and less time in the carrier, or makes a fuss when you try to get them in, it could indicate that they’re ready to move on.
Final Thoughts on When to Stop Using a Baby Carrier
You’ll come across many different opinions on when to stop using a baby carrier.
However, it’s essential to do what feels suitable for you and your baby! We’ve seen parents continue to use carriers into the toddler and beyond. In contrast, others have stopped using them much earlier.
There’s no right and wrong! There’s trial and error, modification, giving up, and starting again. And that’s the beauty of parenting! You never know what you’re going to get.
Just ensure you select the right size, type, and brand of the carrier for your needs.
And if you’re looking for more great baby guides, then check out these guides on best baby carrier for bad backs, best baby carriers for breastfeeding, Baby Bjorn vs Ergo Baby Carrier, and Lillebaby vs Ergobaby.
