New parents need better guidance on the safe use of baby slings, according to researchers at Durham University. A survey of 1,470 parents with infants under one year old found that nearly 90% bought their sling or carrier online, but only 3% received help from a virtual assistant. Even among those who bought in person, only 30% got direct advice.
Most parents relied on manufacturer instructions, social media, or blogs for safety information. Some used 'sling libraries' offering loans and guidance, but these are not widely accessed. The study highlights a gap in support that could lead to unsafe use.
Unsafe sling use has been linked to accidental deaths from suffocation or falls. In 2023, six-week-old James Alderman died in a carrier during hands-free breastfeeding. Incorrect fitting can block a baby's airway or pinch their windpipe.
Professor Helen Ball, director of the Durham Infancy and Sleep Centre, said: “Many parents are unaware of safety guidance. It is crucial they know how to choose and use slings safely, especially for very young babies.” Jenny Ward, chief executive of The Lullaby Trust, added: “This research highlights the need for clearer, more accessible guidance to help families use slings as safely as possible.”
