As baby grows, their needs evolve, and so does their curiosity. Back carrying then becomes an excellent option to continue carrying comfortably while satisfying their desire to discover the world around them.
In this article, we explain when to switch to back carrying, why it's a great option, and how to get properly equipped with our Exquis ergonomic baby carrier to fully enjoy it.
Back carrying: from what age and how to do it?
Back carrying is generally possible when baby has acquired good muscle tone and can hold their head and back stably. In most cases, this corresponds to an age of around 5 to 6 months minimum, although this may vary slightly depending on the child.
Front carrying remains perfectly suitable and widely used, but back carrying then becomes a complementary alternative, particularly appreciated as baby grows and wants to see more of what's happening around them.
An ideal solution for curious babies… and active parents
Back carrying allows the child to see what's happening around them, while remaining secure against the carrier.
This is an excellent alternative to the front-facing-out position, which is not recommended, as it is not ergonomic. Indeed, it does not respect the natural curve of the back or the M-position of the legs.
For parents too, back carrying is very pleasant daily, allowing them to feel free while staying close to their child.
Why is back carrying particularly comfortable?
Ergonomic back carrying allows for a very natural weight distribution, close to the wearer's center of gravity. The weight is well distributed between the shoulders and the hips, which makes carrying very comfortable, even with an older child.
A good ergonomic baby carrier makes all the difference, thanks in particular to:
- a chest strap that stabilizes the shoulder straps during back carrying - included with all our baby carriers.
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a supportive waistband that supports the hips
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comfortable shoulder straps that distribute the weight over the shoulders
The chest strap is essential for back carrying: it keeps the shoulder straps securely in place and ensures stable, safe, and comfortable carrying daily.
Always an ergonomic position for the child
Whether the child is carried in front or on the back, the rules of ergonomic carrying remain the same.
The child must be placed in a position that respects their morphology:
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naturally rounded back
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knees higher than hips (M-position)
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hips well supported
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head clear and airways unobstructed
A well-designed ergonomic baby carrier allows this position to be maintained safely, regardless of the carrying method.
To learn more, consult our guide to ergonomic babywearing.
Exquis Baby Carrier in Forest in front carry and Toddler carrier Exquis+ Toddler Forest in back carry
The Exquis, the ideal baby carrier for back carrying
Our Exquis baby carrier was designed to accompany parents daily, combining the comfort of a wrap with the simplicity of a baby carrier, for an evolving and comfortable carrying experience.
Thanks to its adjustable panel, it adapts to the child's growth and allows maintaining an ergonomic position from infancy to toddlerhood. The soft fabric, inspired by wrap fabric, naturally supports baby's back while offering excellent comfort to the wearer.
For back carrying, the Exquis is particularly pleasant thanks to its comfortable and flexible waistband and its well-padded shoulder straps, which allow for good weight distribution between the shoulders and hips. A removable chest strap, included with each baby carrier, stabilizes the shoulder straps on the back and ensures secure and comfortable support, even as the child grows.
Comfortable, evolving, and easy to use daily, the Exquis thus accompanies all stages of carrying!
Bonus: our tutorial for back carrying!
Follow the guide and become a pro with our back carrying tutorial
Your questions about back carrying
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Up to what weight can you back carry?
Back carrying can be used as long as both baby and carrier feel comfortable. With a suitable ergonomic baby carrier, it is generally possible to carry up to the recommended weight limit, which for our Exquis baby carrier is around 15kg. To extend your carrying adventure, discover our toddler model, the Exquis+ Toddler.
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Is back carrying dangerous if baby falls asleep?
No, back carrying is not dangerous if baby falls asleep, provided the position remains ergonomic and their airways are clear.
A well-adjusted baby carrier supports the back, hips, and neck, allowing the child to rest safely. As with front carrying, it is important to regularly check that baby is well positioned, that their face remains visible, and that their chin is not pressed against their chest.
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How to check that baby is well positioned on the back?
For comfortable and safe back carrying, a few simple points allow you to check that baby is well installed:
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their back is naturally rounded
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their knees are higher than their hips (M-position)
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the fabric supports the entire width of the back
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baby is high enough on the back not to pull backward
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their face remains clear for free breathing
Proper adjustment of the baby carrier, especially the waistband, shoulder straps, and chest strap, helps maintain a stable and comfortable position.
To learn more, consult our ergonomic babywearing guide.
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Can back carrying be done alone, without help to put baby in?
Yes, it is perfectly possible to do back carrying alone, once you get used to it.
The first few times, it can be reassuring to practice in front of a bed, a sofa, or with the help of another person. With a little practice, the installation becomes very natural.
Good to know: for any purchase of a Bud & Blossom baby carrier, a video consultation with a babywearing instructor is offered to you!
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Back carrying or front carrying: which is more comfortable for the carrier?
Both positions are comfortable, but they don't always meet the same needs. Front carrying is often preferred with smaller babies, as it allows for very close contact.
Back carrying, on the other hand, is often more pleasant as baby grows, because the weight is better distributed between the shoulders and hips. The center of gravity is more natural, which allows for longer carrying with less fatigue.
Many parents therefore use both positions complementarily, depending on the child's age and daily situations.
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How long can you carry baby on your back per day?
There is no strict maximum duration, as long as carrying remains comfortable for both the carrier and the child.
A well-adjusted ergonomic baby carrier allows for long periods of carrying, especially when out for a walk or during daily activities.
The important thing is to listen to your body, take breaks if necessary, and regularly check that baby is well installed and comfortable.
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Is back carrying suitable for all carrier body types?
Yes, back carrying can suit the vast majority of carriers, provided an adjustable and ergonomic baby carrier is used, as is the case with our Exquis baby carrier.
Models with adjustable waistbands, comfortable shoulder straps, and multiple adjustments allow them to adapt to different sizes and body types, whether you are small, tall, slender, or larger.
A good fit of the baby carrier is essential to ensure proper weight distribution and guarantee comfortable carrying, regardless of who is carrying.
To find out how to choose your baby carrier well, consult our blog post.
