An ergonomic backpack or carrier backpack is a real find for parents, thanks to which a walk on a bad road, a trip in public transport or an active holiday with a child ceases to be a problem. The main thing is to choose a high-quality model in which the baby will be comfortable and safe.
The best manufacturers of ergonomic backpacks
An ergonomic backpack should provide the baby with the correct physiological posture – the bottom is at the bottom, the legs are wide apart and the knees are above the bottom. It has a wide waist belt and shoulder straps, which makes it easier for the mother to carry the baby.
Quality backpacks provide proper support for the back and head of the child and protect against potential hazards. For example, the fasteners of the product are 'insured' against accidental opening. The role of insurance in this case is played by special elastic bands, which do not allow the backpack to unfasten completely when the fasteners cannot cope with their function.
Ergonomic backpacks must be made from safe and natural materials such as cotton and linen. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers adhere to these requirements and save on the quality of fabric, material of fasteners and other characteristics. Therefore, it is recommended to buy backpacks from trusted brands.
The most popular manufacturers are:
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Manduca;
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Ergobaby;
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Bianka;
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Boba;
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I love mum;
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Pognae;
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Guslenok;
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Mum's Era;
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Love&Carry;
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Teddisling.
But choosing a good manufacturer is just the beginning. You also need to decide on the type of backpack and its components: back, straps, belt, shock absorber, etc.
Is it possible to carry newborns in an ergonomic backpack
Sling counselors do not recommend the use of classic sling backpacks for babies younger than 6-8 months. In extreme cases, you can carry a child in it from 4 months, and then if he already confidently holds his head and weighs at least 7.5 kg.
Of course, manufacturers of ergonomic backpacks shout that their product can be used from the first days of a baby's life, but most doctors question such statements. The use of ergonomic backpacks can negatively affect both the baby's health and the mother's well-being. Early use of carrying backpacks is dangerous for the following reasons:
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The design of the backpack, unlike a sling-scarf or a sling with rings, does not adjust to the shape of the baby's body. The carrier has a specific backrest size and seat depth. Even if the backpack fits the baby perfectly, after a month the child's position can become dangerous.
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Classic models do not provide normal spinal support for newborns. Since the shape of the backpack is practically not regulated, mothers often drag the child with slings sewn into the middle of the back of the product. As a result, the upper and lower parts of the spine are poorly fixed, and the baby's back bends ahead of time. The curvature of the child's spine will form completely only in six months, and not in the first months of life.
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Some manufacturers recommend placing special inserts for newborns in backpacks. In this case, the baby may be strongly pressed against the mother, as a result of which his back will be in an unnatural position.
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The use of ergonomic backpacks immediately after childbirth can lead to pain in the lower abdomen and the development of “female” problems in the mother.
It should be noted that sometimes on sale there are ergonomic backpacks designed specifically for newborns and designed for several months of use: from birth to 1.5 months and from 1.5 months to 4 months. Unfortunately, such models are very difficult to find. Therefore, to carry babies in the first months of life, it is better to use a classic sling scarf or sling with rings.
What to look for when choosing
Back
The back of the product ensures the physiologically correct position of the baby. Should be wide and soft, about the size of the child.
Webbing
The straps of the sling backpack should be wide enough to properly distribute the load on the mother's back and secure the baby securely. Choose soft shoulder straps, so the backpack will put less pressure on the shoulders when carrying a heavy butuz.
Belt
The correct waistband is tight and wide, well adjustable and tight. Thanks to him, the mother can carry the child for several hours without getting tired.
Shock absorbers
Located on the sides of the backrest on some models. Thanks to them, it is possible to fix the child's leg under the knee at any age (both at 6 months and at 2 years). In addition, they allow you to increase the width of the back under the grown cub.
Hood
Some models have a hood, with which you can fix the head of a dozing baby or protect him from wind and rain.
Material
The fabric from which the backpack is sewn must be of high quality, dense and elastic. Make sure that the inside of the product that the baby is in contact with is made of linen, cotton or other natural materials. Although such products have a high price, they retain their presentation even after six months of daily wear.
You should not buy products that were sewn using synthetic fabrics and materials like tulle and tarpaulin. They will be poorly breathable and create a 'greenhouse effect'.
The size
Choose models with an adjustable back – children grow up quickly, and fixed-size products will soon become unnecessary.
Determine the exact measurements of the child before purchasing. Sit the baby on his haunches and spread his legs to the sides. Measure the length between your knees at the back of your thighs and butt. Take measurements not on the bare bottom, but when the baby is in the diaper. The value obtained should not be more than the width of the backpack at the bottom.
Buy the product only after trying it on. If you feel comfortable, the straps do not cut into the skin, and the baby is in the correct position (the back of the backpack does not bulge, there are no voids under the butt, the M-position has been reached), the product can be taken.
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In the following articles, our experts tell you how to choose the right sling, you will also find out which is better – a sling or a kangaroo, and the main expert of our project will answer the question – which is better than a Freik pillow or Pavlik's stirrups.
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.
