Safety and Care Instructions

Our Commitment to Safe Baby Wearing

While baby wearing and using the Shady Baby Cover, it is important to be mindful of your babies positioning, airway and airflow to ensure your baby’s safety. To help reduce the risks associated with baby wearing, including suffocation, we’ve ensured the Shady Baby Cover is thoughtfully designed with safety at front of mind. You’ll notice the Shady Baby doesn’t include a hood that covers your baby’s head and has a structured neckline, designed to keep the cover away from your baby’s face —this is intentional, to help keep their airways clear and ensure proper airflow at all times.

Follow the T.I.C.K.S. Guidelines

We encourage all parents to follow the T.I.C.K.S. Guidelines for safe baby wearing:

Tight: Ensure your baby is securely held close to your body to prevent slumping.

In View at All Times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face without any obstructions.

Close Enough to Kiss: Your baby should be positioned so you can easily kiss the top of their head.

Keep Chin Off Chest: Make sure there is enough space to fit a finger between your baby’s chin and chest to keep their airways open.

Supported Back: Your baby’s back should be supported in a natural position, with their tummy and chest snug against you.

 

Safety Tips for Baby Wearing in Warm Weather

Baby wearing in warmer weather comes with added risks of overheating. Keep these tips in mind to keep yourself and your little one cool and comfortable:

  • Choose Lightweight Layers: Dress yourself and your baby in light, breathable clothing and use a carrier made from cool, breathable fabrics.

  • Protect from the Sun: Use the Shady Baby Carrier Cover for UPF50+ sun protection and avoid direct sunlight during the middle of the day. Remember to protect exposed areas with a hat and baby-safe sunscreen if appropriate (over 6 months of age).

  • Stay Hydrated: Keep both you and your baby hydrated. If breastfeeding, ensure you are drinking plenty of water to maintain milk supply.

  • Regularly Check Your Baby: Feel the back of their neck or chest to monitor their temperature and ensure they’re not overheating.

  • Ventilation is Key: Use the Shady Baby Cover strategically to provide shade while ensuring proper airflow. Avoid completely covering your baby’s head or restricting their breathing. If the temperature is above 26 degrees, we recommend not using the Shady Baby as a pouch and keeping your babies arms and legs outside the elasticised pouch. Please see our product demonstration here.

  • Take Breaks: Give your baby regular breaks out of the carrier to cool down and stretch.

 

A Few More Things to Keep in Mind

  • Regularly check your baby’s position and ensure their nose and mouth are not covered by fabric, your body, or the carrier. 

  • Always supervise your baby while using the Shady Baby Carrier Cover and ensure adequate airflow to minimise the risk of overheating.

  • Be mindful of your baby’s comfort and cues. If they seem too hot, reposition them or adjust your environment.