Being a parent is a huge responsibility, even more so when your child is extra fragile. Now that you’ve delivered your preemie safely, it’s time to start learning how to give them the best care possible. When it comes time to shop for a baby carrier, you’ll notice that most have a minimum weight suggestion. The reason there are weight guidelines is to prevent suffocation or other risks. Your preemie may not meet these suggestions, leaving you wondering what to do. Luckily, some baby carriers are safe for preemies and can grow with them as they mature. Keep reading to learn more about the best baby carriers for preemies.

What is the Best Baby Carrier for Preemies?

Table of Contents

• Can you put a preemie in a carrier?
• Is it safe to babywear a preemie?
• Can I put a preemie in a sling?
• Can you baby wrap a preemie?
• Can babies suffocate in carriers?
• What to look for in a baby carrier for preemie babies
• What is the Right Time to Carry Preemie Baby?
• Why is Tushbaby the best baby carrier for preemies?

Can you put a preemie in a carrier?

While there are risks associated with carrying a preemie, it is generally safe as long as you take precautions. Make sure to support your baby's head and neck, and avoid jostling them too much. You should also ask your doctor about any safety concerns specific to your child before taking them out in a carrier. 

Is it safe to babywear a preemie?

Caring for a preemie requires a lot of love and a heightened awareness of safety. It is safe to babywear a preemie, but you’ll need the right carrier. An open hip seat carrier is a top choice for parents with preemies. 

The number one pick? The Tushbaby Carrier. Since it’s open, there’s no risk of suffocation, making it safe for preemies. It’s also very safe for parents and caregivers too. The Tushbaby Carrier keeps your baby in the “M” position while evenly distributing their weight and protecting the wearer's body.

Can I put a preemie in a sling?

Similar to carriers, slings often have weight requirements, and preemies often don’t meet the requirements for slings. If the preemie does not meet the requirements for the sling, it may pose a threat of suffocation for preemies due to their snug, enclosed fit. Once your preemie meets the safety requirements, you can use a sling if you choose. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be sure the sling is supportive and doesn't allow your baby to slump down or curl up too much. While wearing them, be careful not to jostle or swing them around too much - remember that their bones and muscles are still developing, so they can be easily injured. 

Finally, watch for signs that your baby is uncomfortable or in distress - if you notice any signs of stress,  you should take them out of the sling.

Can you baby wrap a preemie?

There are ways to help ease the transition for preemies. One of these is baby wrapping. Baby wrapping is a technique that uses a soft cloth to swaddle the baby in a way that mimics the womb.This can help to provide the baby with much-needed comfort and security.

Additionally, baby wrapping can help to reduce stress hormones and promote healthy brain development. Wraps may have certain height or weight requirements similar to slings and carriers, so check these before wrapping your preemie.

Can babies suffocate in carriers?

Some parents worry that their child could suffocate in a carrier, but this is unlikely if the carrier is used correctly. With a preemie, the risk of suffocation may be greater since carriers are often not used correctly. If the preemie doesn’t meet the requirements to be worn safely in a carrier, there is a heightened risk of suffocation. 

Open face carriers are best for preemies. Open face carriers allow you to wear your baby without wrapping them tightly or causing you to lose sight of them in a sling. If something goes wrong, you will notice it faster with an open carrier. 

What to look for in a baby carrier for preemie babies

One of the most important features to look for in a carrier for preemies is that they meet the recommendations for safe use. Some carriers may not be suitable for preemies. You should also make sure the carrier can grow with them. Other helpful features might include storage pockets, various carry positions, breathable materials, and the ability to double as a breastfeeding aid. 

Preemies are often tiny for their age, so it's crucial to find a carrier that can accommodate their size. Ask your pediatrician for advice if you're unsure what size to choose. 

What is the Right Time to Carry Preemie Baby?

As a parent with a newborn, you’re probably low on sleep. A carrier can offer you support to help make carrying your baby easier and safer. As long as the preemie meets the safety requirements of the carrier, you should be able to start babywearing right away. 

Carrying a preemie in a baby carrier can help to protect them while providing the warmth and closeness they need. Carrying a baby is not a way to ignore the baby, but rather a way for you to more comfortably hold your baby while getting tasks done at the same time. The best time to carry a preemie in a baby carrier is when they are awake and alert, and when you can support their head and neck. With an open carrier, you may need to keep one hand on the baby to keep them safe.

Why is Tushbaby the best baby carrier for preemies?

Preemies need hands-on attention and extra care. The Tushbaby Carrier can help keep your baby close and most importantly, safe. The Tushbaby Carrier is a hip seat carrier with an open design that offers 4 carrying positions, and none of them require you to strap in or wrap up your preemie. Simply put your baby in the desired carrying position and rest a hand on them to keep them supported. It’s like carrying them naturally, but with many more benefits. The Tushbaby Carrier keeps the baby in an “M'' position while giving the babywearer plenty of support. Its versatile design evenly distributes the weight of the baby, which may not be a lot for preemies, but they will grow. The Tushbaby Carrier can grow with you and your preemie and can aid as a breastfeeding pillow, too.

The Tushbaby Carrier’s flawless design is the result of years of dedication and commitment to parents looking for a simple, supportive way to carry their kids longer and more comfortably. To people who want to streamline the baggage (literally) that comes with leaving the house. And to our little ones who love to be held close.