At Mama Hangs, we design baby carriers focused on the comfort of parents... but most importantly on the well-being and physiology of babies. We work closely with healthcare professionals and babywearing instructors to ensure that each of our products meets the baby's needs and supports parents safely.
We frequently receive questions about facing outward babywearing (baby facing outward, looking at the environment, and not toward the wearer). Some brands market this as an advantage. We make a different choice, and here’s why.
What is physiological babywearing?
Babywearing is considered physiological when it respects the baby’s natural position, as seen when a newborn is held against an adult: rounded back, pelvis tilted, legs in an M or “froggy” position, knees higher than the hips, and weight evenly distributed from the back of the thighs to the knees. This posture:
supports spinal development,
supports the hips and reduces the risk of dysplasia,
encourages attachment and a sense of security,
alleviates reflux and colic through vertical positioning,
allows the baby to rest, nurse, or fall asleep easily.
This physiological position evolves with age: the older the child gets, the more they strengthen their back and straighten their posture.
👉 For more information, we’ve written a detailed article on physiological babywearing: it helps you understand this key posture, its benefits, and the right habits to adopt.
At Mama Hangs, we offer carriers that support each stage of this development. The Carry & Pack is perfect from birth: it offers a snug, physiological, and secure front carry for little ones. The Carry & Bloom allows front carrying from 3 months, and back carrying as soon as the baby can sit up well (usually around 6-8 months). The Carry & Walk offers a hip-carry option once the baby is sitting well, typically around 9 months.
What is facing outward babywearing?
Facing outward babywearing means the baby is carried frontally against the wearer’s chest, but facing outward. The baby is looking at "the world," with their back against the wearer’s stomach.
Some parents are drawn to this position: they believe their baby is curious, wanting to see what’s going on, or that the baby cries when facing them. We understand the desire to offer them an outward view. However, this posture raises many concerns from both physiological and emotional standpoints.
Why we don’t recommend facing outward babywearing
1. A non-physiological position
In this position, the baby’s back is typically straight, or even arched, because there’s no support at the back to round the spine. This goes against the natural development of the spine, which progresses gradually through successive curves (cervical, dorsal, and lumbar).
Moreover, the baby’s legs often dangle vertically, without the necessary support at the back of the thighs. This position can create tension in the hips and is not recommended in cases of suspected dysplasia.
2. Sensory overload
The world is vast, noisy, and bright. An infant or young baby has a nervous system that is still developing. In the outward-facing position, the baby cannot protect themselves or seek refuge against their parent in case of stress or excessive stimulation. This can lead to fatigue, frustration, or even anxiety.
In contrast, facing the wearer, the baby can observe the world at their own pace, hide in the curve of the neck, or feel reassured by hearing their parent's familiar voice and heartbeat.
3. Limited communication
Facing outward babywearing prevents visual interaction with the wearer. It’s impossible to notice signs of fatigue, hunger, or discomfort in the baby. Likewise, the baby cannot benefit from the facial expressions of the parent, which are so important for attachment and language development.
4. Discomfort for the wearer
This position shifts the baby’s weight forward, which can strain the back and shoulders, making the carry uncomfortable, especially as the baby gets heavier. It is often discouraged by occupational therapists and babywearing experts.
What are the alternatives to facing outward babywearing?
So, what if the baby wants to see the world? This is great news: it means they’re growing, they’re curious, and they’re opening up to the world. But this doesn’t mean you have to abandon physiological babywearing!
Here are a few alternatives we recommend:
➤ Side carry from birth (Mama Hangs Sling)
Our slings are perfect for newborns and offer a physiological side carry from the first weeks of life. In addition to being quick to use, they provide great closeness and support, while respecting the natural posture of the infant. A great option for varying positions while keeping baby close.
➤ Hip carry (Carry & Walk)
Once the baby can sit up, you can carry them on your hip. They get a great view of their surroundings, while staying nestled close to you. They can turn their head, interact with their environment, but also hide against you if tired or stressed. Hip carry is an excellent transition between front and back carries.
From 6 months onward, back carrying is both a comfortable and practical option. Baby can look over your shoulder, observe what interests them, and you have your hands free for other activities. It's an ideal solution for curious toddlers and active parents!
➤ Awakening without carrying
There's nothing stopping you from offering baby moments of exploration without carrying: on a play mat on the floor, in your arms facing outward for a few minutes, or in a sling with a slightly off-center position. The key is to alternate between carrying time and free play time, depending on their age and needs.
In summary
At Mama Hangs, we believe in physiological carrying, which respects both the baby's body and the parent-child bond. World-facing carrying, although popular, doesn't align with this approach. That's why our models don't offer it.
With the Carry & Bloom (front and back) and the Carry & Walk (front and hip), we offer you evolutionary and respectful solutions so you can carry your baby comfortably and confidently for a long time.
Want to know more?
👉 Discover our baby carrier models
👉 Write to us so we can help you choose the one that's right for you.