The Anatomy of a Soft-structured Carrier
Soft-structured carriers (SSC) have lots of moving parts, which can seem confusing when you first unpack your new baby carrier.
However, once you get to know what they are and what they do, you'll see these are the tools to help you get that fit just right for you.
Let's have a look at what you'll find on most of these carriers:
Body panel:
Generally a rectangular section which will cover your baby’s torso, from their bum to their neck. Adjustable carriers will have features along the base of the body panel - buttons, Velcro, snaps or sliding pieces - to cinch/expand to fit babies at different stages. Others will have a separate insert for babies in their first months until they reach the minimum size required.
Waistband:
This is the "belt" which does up around your waist and is connected to the body panel. Some carriers have webbing attached onto a padded fabric piece, others have the webbing continuous across the padded section. Some might have a small pouch or pocket here. The waistband is adjustable.
Shoulder Straps:
These are attached at the top corners of the body panel and reconnect to it with clips half-way down each side. This is where you loosen/tighten your carrier. Some carriers have a one-way adjustment while others have two-way. Some can also be crossed on the back while others only accommodate the standard "H" position.
Chest Straps:
These join the two shoulder straps with a clip. Many people don't realise these are adjustable: slide them up/down before putting the carrier on, so they sit between your shoulder blades, not up near your neck.
Hood:
This is designed to shield your baby from sun and other elements and can be used to support older babies heads when sleeping. It might be detachable or tuck into a built-in pocket. Generally hoods attach onto the shoulder straps when in use, using snaps, ties or other connectors.
Perfect Fit Adjusters (PFA):
Some carriers have these additional webbing sections on the shoulder straps, connecting onto the body panel. These allow additional tightening to ensure the carrier is comfortably supportive on the shoulders.
Take time to get to know a new carrier before using it the first time. The manufacturer's instructions will guide you on correct fitting so it is safe and comfortable. Your local #babywearing group can assist you in getting the fit just right.
