Babywearing When Your Baby Has a Fever: Comfort and Care Through Closeness

When your little one is under the weather, all they want is to be held close. Fever is a common symptom in babies and toddlers, often caused by infections, teething, or immunizations. While it can be worrying for parents, babywearing can provide both comfort and practical benefits during these difficult moments.

Can I carry my baby while having a fever?

Yes absolutely. In this blog we’ll explore why babywearing can be helpful when your baby has a fever and offer essential tips to ensure their safety and well-being.

The Benefits of Babywearing When Your Baby Has a Fever

1. Regulates Body Temperature Through Skin-to-Skin Contact

Scientific studies show that skin-to-skin contact (also known as kangaroo care) helps regulate an infant’s body temperature. One study published in Pediatrics found that skin-to-skin contact can effectively stabilize a baby’s temperature, even in preterm infants (Conde-Agudelo & Díaz-Rossello, 2014). When a baby has a fever, being close to a caregiver can help maintain an optimal temperature without the risk of sudden spikes or drops.

2. Provides Emotional Comfort and Reduces Stress

Fever often makes babies fussy, clingy, and unsettled. Research in infant psychology suggests that being close to a caregiver reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and promotes the release of oxytocin, the “bonding hormone” (Feldman et al., 2010). This can help calm your baby, reduce crying, and improve their overall mood.

3. Encourages Rest and Sleep

Good sleep is essential for a baby’s immune system to fight off illness. However, a fever can make it difficult for them to rest. The gentle movement of babywearing mimics the rocking motion they experienced in the womb, which has been shown to improve sleep patterns (Esposito et al., 2015). Keeping them in a sling or carrier may help them nap longer and more soundly.

4. Allows Parents to Stay Hands-Free While Providing Care

Caring for a sick baby often means balancing other responsibilities. Wearing your baby in a sling allows you to stay hands-free, making it easier to prepare meals, care for siblings, or even just sit comfortably without constantly holding them in your arms.

Essential Tips for Babywearing During a Fever

While babywearing offers many benefits, it’s crucial to do it safely and comfortably. Here are key considerations:

1. Choose a Breathable Carrier

Opt for a lightweight, breathable baby carrier made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo. This helps prevent overheating, which is especially important when your baby has a fever. Our Moon ring slings are made of 100% linen fabric, which is a perfectly breathable, light and soft fabric to use when your little one is not feeling well. 

2. Monitor Their Temperature Regularly

Keep an eye on your baby’s temperature to ensure they aren’t getting too warm. You can check by feeling the back of their neck or using a thermometer at regular intervals.

3. Dress Your Baby in Light Layers

Avoid overdressing your baby. A simple onesie or light pajamas under the sling is usually enough. You can add a thin muslin blanket if needed, but avoid heavy layers. You can even opt for skin-to-skin contact if the environment allows for it. 

4. Stay Hydrated

Fevers can cause dehydration, so offer frequent breastfeeds or bottle feeds. For older babies, you can provide small sips of water if they are over six months old.

5. Maintain Good Air Circulation

Ensure that your baby has proper airflow while in the carrier. Keep their face uncovered and their head positioned upright to support easy breathing.

6. Respond to Their Comfort Cues

If your baby seems restless, too warm, or uncomfortable, adjust the carrier position or take breaks as needed. Babywearing should always feel comfortable for both of you.

7. Avoid Excessive Movement

While babywearing often involves walking or gentle bouncing, be mindful of not overstimulating a sick baby. Keep movements slow and soothing to help them rest.

8. Know When to Seek Medical Attention

If your baby’s fever is very high (above 38°C for infants under 3 months or 39°C for older babies), lasts more than 3 days, or is accompanied by lethargy, difficulty breathing, or refusal to eat, seek medical attention immediately. Babywearing is a supportive measure but should not replace medical care when necessary.

Final Thoughts

Babywearing during a fever can be a comforting and effective way to soothe your little one, promote rest, and regulate their body temperature. By following safety precautions and paying attention to their needs, you can make the experience as beneficial as possible for both you and your baby.

At Moon, we believe in the power of closeness. Our range of 100% linen ring slings are ergonomic and breathable carriers to ensure that even during difficult times like having a fever, your baby feels safe and supported in your arms.

Would you like to share your babywearing experience with us? Comment below or tag us on Instagram (@moon.sling) with your story!

About Moon Sling

Moon is built on our belief that there’s no better way to hold your little one than heart to heart. To us, ring slings are the unspoken hero’s of babywearing. Simple, easy to use, great for both short and long trips and very easy to keep on hand. Moon ring sling is the most versatile baby carrier of them all. Unlike other carriers, ring slings can be used everyday from birth up to 15kg. From front carry, side carry, back carry, to hip seat - the Moon Sling adapts and grows with your little one’s need, from newborn to toddler. Good for your wallet and the environment. Moon ring slings are made of 100% linen, which keeps your little one warm and comfortable with winter temperatures, yet cool in Summer. Each Moon sling is made from carefully-considered and sourced materials, including 100% linen fabric that gets softer with each wash, and a purpose-built, beautifully smooth 3” matte aluminium ring that has been tested (by SGS) to a breaking force of over 1200kg. Moon slings are available in a growing range of beautiful colours. They are incredibly practical, simple to use, store and transport.

References

• Conde-Agudelo, A., & Díaz-Rossello, J. L. (2014). Kangaroo mother care to reduce morbidity and mortality in low birthweight infants. Pediatrics, 124(5), e891-e899.
• Esposito, G., Yoshida, S., Ohnishi, R., Tsuneoka, Y., Rostagno, M., & Venuti, P. (2015). Infant calming responses during maternal carrying in humans and mice. Current Biology, 23(9), 739-745.
• Feldman, R., Rosenthal, Z., & Eidelman, A. I. (2010). Maternal–preterm skin-to-skin contact enhances child physiologic organization and cognitive control across the first 10 years of life. Biological Psychiatry, 68(10), 1005-1011.