Is it Safe to Use a Boba Wrap for Newborn Babies?
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Are Baby Wraps Safe for Newborns?
When I first started my search for a baby carrier, the options were overwhelming. Did I want a wrap or something a little more structured? Even after narrowing it down to a fabric baby wrap, I had to wonder: “Is it safe to use a Boba wrap for newborn babies?”
I’ve had my Boba wrap for almost four years, and have used it for both of my babies, so today I want to share a little information about my baby wearing experience with you.
In this article, I’ll cover the following topics:
- When can you start using the Boba wrap?
- Why baby wear?
- What exactly is a Boba baby wrap?
- How to use the Boba wrap
- Baby wrap safety tips
- What’s different about the Boba wrap?
When Can You Start Using the Boba Wrap?
Boba.com answers our burning question: Is it safe to use the Boba wrap for newborn babies?
The Boba Wrap is intended for babies from birth* to 35 lbs. Yep, that’s right! You can start wearing your little one right away. In fact, we’re big advocates for skin to skin kangaroo care.
Now we know that, yes, we can wear the Boba wrap for newborn babies. But what’s so great about baby wearing, anyway? Let’s find out.
*For premature babies, please consult with your health care provider and/or a baby wearing educator on safe positioning.
Click here for FREE SHIPPING on all US orders through Boba.com
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Why Baby Wear?
If you’re researching baby wraps, you probably already have your own reasons to start baby wearing.
Maybe you can’t put your baby down for naps. Perhaps you want to have your baby close by as much as possible. Or maybe you just want to get a few things done around the house, and baby has different ideas.
But did you know there are actually science-backed baby wearing benefits, too?
Baby Wearing Benefits Backed by Science
- Enhances immunological protection
- Prevents ear infections and eases the symptoms of GERD
- Regulates body temperature
- Enhances lactation, the prevalence, and the duration of breastfeeding
- Enhances growth/weight gain
- Supports arousal regulation
- Reduces apnea and uneven breathing patterns
- Stabilizes heart rate
- Relieves stress reactions
- Improves neurobehavior
- Increases oxygenation of the baby’s body
- Provides longer periods of restful sleep
- Mimics the environment of the womb
- Saves lives
Learn more about these fourteen science-backed benefits of baby wearing.
What Exactly is a Boba Baby Wrap?
First of all, a baby wrap is a type of baby carrier that is made of a long, stretchy piece of woven fabric.
Essentially, you tie it around yourself to create a pouch for your baby.
There are no buttons, snaps, or anything else to secure it — you simply wrap it, knot it, insert baby, and make sure it’s nice and secure.
What Material is the Boba Wrap Made of?
Boba wraps are made out of a machine washable blend that is 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex.
Cotton helps with breathability, while spandex makes the wrap just stretchy enough to conform to your baby’s body without getting too stretched out.
I’ve used my Boba wrap for both of my babies and never had a problem with it stretching out on me, even after many washes.
Is it Difficult to Learn How to Tie a Boba Wrap?
There is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to wrapping. Even though I had seen others do it, I was confused at first, but never fear — your baby wrap should come with written instructions.
(Is it crazy that I re-read this sentence as “your baby should come with written instructions”? Ha! Wouldn’t that be nice.)
Plus, there are countless videos online that will walk you through the process. In fact, if you continue reading, you will find a video and written Boba wrap steps in this article as well.
When I was just starting out, I often found that the wrap was too tight, and I felt like I was squishing my baby. Other times, it felt too loose, which is equally uncomfortable.
If it feels too tight or too loose, just remove the wrap and try again.
Once you’ve worn your Boba wrap a few times, it gets easier. Eventually, it will become second nature and you won’t even have to think about it.
Once you've worn your Boba wrap a few times, it gets easier. Eventually, it will become second nature and you won't even have to think about it.Click To Tweet
Now that we know what exactly the Boba baby wrap is, let’s find out how to use it for newborn babies. Following are step by step instructions.
How to Use the Boba Wrap for Newborn Babies
Follow these step-by-step instructions for wrapping your infant.
Firstly, open up the wrap completely. Now, look for the Boba logo in the center. Hold your wrap across your navel with the logo facing outward.
Cross the two ends behind your back. Pull each side up and over your shoulders, keeping the fabric stretched. Make sure it doesn’t get twisted!
Hold both pieces in one hand, tucking them under the section with the logo on it. Make sure to keep a little tension while doing so.
Pull downward, and the logo should rise to your chest. Your wrap should now fit snugly.
Cross the ends, bringing them around waist behind your back. Make sure they cross each other high on your chest, across the sternum. No need to leave space for baby, since the wrap will stretch.
Cross the wrap behind your back again. If there is enough fabric, bring it back to the front. Tie a double knot, either in the back, front, or on your hip.
Boba Wrap for Newborn Safety Tips
You might still be wondering if baby wearing poses any dangers to newborns or infant. Are there any risks to using a Boba wrap?
The short answer is that baby wearing, including fabric wraps, is both safe and beneficial when done correctly.
Is it safe to babywear newborns? The short answer is that baby wearing, including fabric wraps, is both safe and beneficial when done correctly.Click To Tweet
Let’s go over a few baby wearing safety tips…
1. Position baby over your rib cage.
You should always be able to kiss the top of baby’s head when baby wearing. Trust me — you’ll know if your baby is too high or low!
2. Baby should always be vertical.
If cradled, baby’s chin could get tucked too deeply and the airway could become compromised.
3. Baby’s legs should form an “M”.
Don’t let the legs dangle! Because their soft bones and loose ligaments are susceptible to hip dysplasia, baby’s hips should be flexed while in any baby carrier.
4. Airway is clear.
You should always be able to see baby’s face and monitor that the airway is clear. Again, a vertical position is critical.
5. Inspect your wrap periodically.
Monitor your Boba wrap for signs of wear or damage, and replace if has been compromised in any way.
This list is just a starting point when it comes to baby wearing safety tips. Before using your baby wrap, be sure to read the accompanying safety instructions and to follow them.
What’s different about the Boba wrap?
There are so many different types of baby carriers and wraps that you might be wondering what makes the Boba wrap so special.
Before having my first baby, I spent a lot of time researching all the different types and brands.
I was able to narrow my search down to a fabric wrap, and when deciding on a brand, it appeared that Boba was popular among baby wearing families.
They checked off everything I was looking for in a baby carrier for newborns….
Highlights of the Boba wrap baby carrier
- Comfortable for you and baby
- Supports baby’s spine and hip development
- Can get baby into the carrier without help
- Can nurse baby in it if you choose
- Use from birth to 35 lbs.
- Budget-friendly (a huge plus!)
Ready to order? Great! Boba.com is offering FREE SHIPPING on all US orders right now.
And if you prefer, you can find the Boba wrap on Amazon as well.
Read more:
Best Baby Carriers for Summer + Hot Weather
21 Incredible Benefits of Babywearing
Does Babywearing Count as Tummy Time?