How to wear a Tula Free to Grow carrier safely from newborn up

Part of our guide on boba wrap sizing guide

Master the exact steps to wear your Tula Free to Grow carrier safely and comfortably from newborn stage with key position checks and mesh panel use.

Tula Free to Grow baby carrier instructions

The Tula Free to Grow carrier features two main panels: a newborn panel for babies roughly 7 to 25 pounds, and a toddler panel for babies up to 45 pounds. Start by fitting the newborn panel when your baby is under 25 pounds, allowing for proper head and neck support.

To put on the carrier, fasten the waist belt securely around your hips to distribute weight evenly. Then, place your baby into the carrier facing inward, ensuring the newborn panel encloses their back fully. Adjust the shoulder straps to a snug but comfortable tension, avoiding slack that can cause poor support.

Always check that your baby’s airway is clear with their chin off the chest by at least one finger’s width. The Tula Free to Grow’s design supports this safety standard, but you must ensure positioning during use.

1. Secure waist belt around hips, tighten firmly.
2. Place baby inward-facing in newborn panel.
3. Support baby's legs in ‘M’ position with knees higher than bottom.
4. Pull up the panel to support baby's back and neck fully.
5. Tighten shoulder straps to secure baby snugly.
6. Check baby’s airway is clear and chin is raised.

Tula Free to Grow newborn position allowed

The Tula Free to Grow allows inward-facing newborn carry only in its newborn panel. Carrying a newborn in the toddler panel or facing outward is unsafe due to lack of adequate head and neck support. The newborn panel provides a narrower, higher seat that supports the baby’s spinal curve and keeps legs in the recommended ergonomic ‘M’ shape.

This position keeps the baby’s hips and knees flexed, preventing hip dysplasia risks. Parents should ensure the baby’s legs are not dangling straight down, which is a frequent error outside the newborn panel.

If your baby weighs less than 7 pounds or needs extra head support, a separate infant insert compatible with Tula Free to Grow is necessary. Without this, very small newborns may not be safely supported.

Breathable mesh panel for Tula Free to Grow

The Tula Free to Grow carrier includes a breathable mesh panel option designed to improve airflow and reduce heat buildup, especially useful in warm climates or during active use. This panel replaces the standard fabric back panel and is installed according to the manual.

Using the mesh panel typically lowers the internal temperature around 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the solid fabric panel. This depends on ambient temperature and humidity but generally improves baby and wearer comfort.

Parents should switch to the mesh panel when temperatures exceed roughly 70°F or if baby shows signs of overheating such as flushed skin or excessive sweating. Ensure the mesh panel is completely secured to avoid loose fabric that could compromise support.

How to wear Tula Free to Grow baby carrier

Start by adjusting the waist belt at your hip level, tightening so it feels firm but comfortable. Put your newborn inside the newborn panel facing you, making sure their legs form the ‘M’ shape with knees above the bottom and spread to the sides.

Lift the back panel up to support your baby’s back and head fully. Pull the shoulder straps over your shoulders, then cross or clip them at your back depending on your preference and Tula’s specifications. Tighten the straps until the carrier feels snug against your body without causing discomfort.

Make sure your baby’s face is visible, cheek-to-cheek contact is possible, and their chin is off the chest by at least one finger’s width to maintain an open airway. Adjust straps periodically as baby grows or after movement to maintain safety.

1. Fasten waist belt securely on hips.
2. Place baby inward-facing in newborn panel.
3. Position baby’s legs in ‘M’ shape.
4. Raise back panel to support baby’s back and neck.
5. Put on shoulder straps and secure them.
6. Tighten straps for a snug fit.
7. Check baby’s airway is clear.

Comparison with Boba Bliss baby carrier

Both the Tula Free to Grow and Boba Bliss carriers are designed to accommodate newborns through toddler stages without an infant insert, using adjustable panels or modes. The Tula is limited to babies 7 to 45 pounds, while the Boba Bliss is rated for approximately 7 to 35 pounds, depending on the model.

The Boba Bliss also offers mesh panel options similar to Tula’s, with comparable breathability. However, Boba Bliss tends to have wider shoulder straps and a more padded waist belt, which some parents find more comfortable during extended wear.

Tula’s design emphasizes an adjustable newborn panel that transitions to toddler mode by unzipping the panel, whereas Boba Bliss uses a fold-down panel or adjustable seat width for growth accommodation. Your choice depends on which fit and adjustment style suit your body and baby better.

Safety checks and maintenance for Tula Free to Grow

Before every use, inspect all buckles, straps, and fabric for wear or damage. The manufacturer’s weight and age limits must be strictly observed to avoid injury. Babies must never be carried facing outward in the newborn panel or unsupported positions.

Wash the carrier only according to Tula’s instructions, generally hand wash or gentle machine cycle with mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners that damage fabric integrity and color.

Store the carrier in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to preserve fabric and mesh panel quality. Regularly check strap tension and stitching, particularly after washing or extended use, to maintain safety.

If any part breaks or becomes loose, replace it immediately with manufacturer-approved parts.

Questions people still ask

As a parent who used the Tula Free to Grow from day one, I emphasize tight straps and proper leg position for safety and comfort.