All About Hip Carries

Hip carries are a great way to give you and your baby a little more freedom to explore the world. Not only does it allow  your baby to see more of what is going around them, but it frees up one of your arms to accomplish everyday tasks. If you’re pregnant, a hip carry is also a good way to wear your child on your front without putting a lot of pressure on your abdomen.

We recommend hip carries for babies who have good head control, typically about three months of age and up. It’s one option for when your baby wants to look out, but isn’t quite ready for back carries or forward facing yet.

You can do a hip carry in most carriers. Check out the instructions below or attend a meeting to get one-on-one help with achieving a hip carry in your own carrier.

Pouch Sling: https://youtu.be/-b7syRKNYA8
Pouches are a quick baby carrier that can be easily stored in a diaper bag, car, etc. They’re fast and easy to put on--just make sure they are sized correctly!

Ring Sling: https://youtu.be/r4AEEwYTQFc
Ring slings are also fast and pretty easy to use, but they can be tightened or loosened to share between caregivers and children. Ring slings are great for quick trips and when you may have to wear two differently sized children.

Woven Wrap: http://babywearinginternational.org/what-is-babywearing/babywearing-resources/intermediate-and-advanced-hip-carries/
Woven wraps have much variation for hip carries depending on the length of your wrap. Check the resource above to find a carry suited to your wrap size, skill level, and preference.

Meh dai: https://youtu.be/nHaeQ_1n3-c
Meh dais are a great blend between a soft structured carrier and a woven wrap. They offer a little more flexibility than a soft structured carrier in how the hip carry is achieved while still having the support of a panel of fabric.

Soft Structured Carrier: http://accordingtojenny.com/2013/09/how-to-do-a-hip-carry-in-a-soft-structured-carrier.html
Many soft structured carriers can do a hip carry, but check the instructions for your specific carrier first. Your carrier will need arm straps that can be unbuckled and crossed behind your back.

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