How do you use a Wildbird wrap?

A Wildbird wrap is a type of baby carrier that allows parents to carry their baby on their body. Using a wrap allows for hands-free carrying, promotes bonding through physical closeness, and can help calm and soothe babies. Learning how to use a Wildbird wrap properly ensures comfort and safety for both parent and baby.

What is a Wildbird wrap?

A Wildbird wrap is a long piece of fabric that is used to hold a baby close to a caregiver’s body. It allows babywearing without the use of buckles, snaps, or rings. The wrap is made of a stretchy material that provides a tight and secure fit when wrapped correctly around the body. Wildbird offers wraps made of different materials like cotton, linen, and modal. They come in a variety of colors and patterns.

Features of a Wildbird wrap

• Very long – Typically 5.5-6 yards long and 25-30 inches wide
• Stretchy material – Has give to it for a snug fit
• Lightweight and breathable
• No hardware or fasteners needed
• Can be tied in various carrying positions
• Provides hands-free portability once tied properly

Benefits of babywearing with a Wildbird wrap

• Bonding – Keeping baby close promotes affection through touch and physical contact.
• Comfort – A wrap feels warm and cozy for baby while allowing mobility for the wearer.
• Convenience – Caregivers can be hands-free to do other activities while babywearing.
• Calming – The motion from walking and being held near an adult’s heartbeat is soothing for babies.
• Development – Studies show babywearing can support cognitive, emotional and physical development.
• Safety – When used properly, wraps prevent injuries from falls and allow the wearer to keep baby close and supervised.

Getting ready to use your Wildbird wrap

Before you can start using a Wildbird wrap for carrying your baby, there are a few things you need to do to get prepared:

Wash and wear in the wrap

It is recommended that you wash the wrap prior to first use. The fabric may relax and soften a bit after washing. After washing, wear the wrap around yourself without baby in it to allow your body heat to further break in the material.

Practice tying techniques

Take time to practice the different wrapping methods you plan to use with your baby. Refer to Wildbird’s detailed video tutorials and instructions and tie the wrap on yourself or a doll until you feel confident with the techniques.

Ensure proper fit

Make sure the wrap is the right size for you and tied snugly whenever using it. If it feels loose, unsafe, or uncomfortable when you are wearing it empty, it will likely not work well with your baby in it.

Choose appropriate location

Pick a safe spot free of hazards or distractions to first practice holding your baby in the wrap. Have a space to sit or lay baby down for getting in and out.

How to tie a Wildbird wrap

Wildbird has many different ways their wraps can be tied to safely hold your baby. Some of the most common methods include:

Front Wrap Cross Carry

This carry holds baby against your chest facing towards you. It requires crossing the fabric over itself while creating a pocket for baby. Use this starting at newborn age up through roughly 18 months old.

Steps:

1. Spread wrap out flat and find the middle point. Place middle at your belly and cross front pieces over shoulder.
2. Bring fabric under baby’s legs while crossing front pieces again to make an X shape.
3. Pull fabric through opening to create a deep seat for baby to sit in with knees above butt.
4. Spread passes up over shoulders and tie off with square knot at collar bone. Adjust fit as needed.

Hip Carry

Also called a hip scoot, this carry holds baby at your hip. Use this position for older babies who have head and neck control. A hip carry allows you to see and interact with baby.

Steps:

1. Drape middle of wrap over shoulder. Spread passes wide and place baby sitting on hip.
2. Reach fabric from front, pull under baby’s legs and around to tie off at back.
3. Cross remaining fabric over and under baby’s back to their opposite shoulder.
4. Wrap this fabric up over shoulder and tie off with square knot.

Back Carry

Having baby ride on your back allows older babies to face outward and see their surroundings. Use this when baby is sitting unassisted.

Steps:

1. Drape middle of wrap at front of shoulder, spread passes wide.
2. Pull fabric under baby’s legs while placing baby at back.
3. Cross fabric over shoulders to front then back under armpits.
4. Tie off with square knot, tighten bottom rail, then spread passes up to tie off.

Safety tips for babywearing

While using a Wildbird wrap holds your baby close for bonding and convenience, there are some important safety guidelines to keep in mind:

• Always ensure baby’s face is visible and not obstructed by fabric.
• Do not tie too tightly as to restrict breathing. You should be able to slip a finger between wrap and baby.
• Baby should be positioned upright with their back rounded and head above their bottom.
• Avoid cooking or other hazardous activities when babywearing.
• Take care when leaning or bending over so baby stays secure against your body.
• Be mindful of baby’s comfort level. Take breaks from babywearing as needed.

Additionally, do not attempt to babywear:

• If your balance feels compromised or ability impaired.
• Without exercising caution on stairs or uneven ground.
• During high impact exercise or activities.
• In extreme heat – stay cool and hydrated.

Caring for your Wildbird wrap

With proper care, a Wildbird wrap can be used for multiple children and last for years. Here is how to care for your wrap:

• Washing – Machine or hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent. Lay flat or hang to dry. Do not put in dryer.
• Storing – Keep out of direct sunlight. Fold loosely or roll up rather than tightly rolling for storage.
• Spot cleaning – Spot treat stains gently with cold water as needed. Do not scrub or bleach.
• Damage – Check for rips, pulls, or damaged rings frequently. Discontinue use if any damage occurs.

Conclusion

Using a Wildbird wrap enables you to keep your baby close while providing hands-free mobility. With proper preparation and practice of the different tying techniques, parents can safely carry their little ones from newborn stages up through toddlerhood. Take care to follow safety guidelines for baby’s well-being. Refer to Wildbird’s instructions for the best wrapping methods. Stay attentive to your baby’s signals. Happy babywearing!