Take-to-seller checklist

Baby carrier or sling

A worn buckle or a stretched sling is hard to spot in a listing photo. Take this list to the meeting, and do not use a carrier that fails a must-pass. Positioning advice below is the widely used T.I.C.K.S. reminder from UK sling educators — it is guidance, not a fitting service.

Soft structured carriers often show BS EN 13209. A mark is not a substitute for a safe position.

This viewing

Fill in what you know from the listing, then print or keep this page open on your phone.

SellerWhere listedMeeting placeDateAsking priceBrandModelStandard mark / approval no.

Before you leave the house

Must passI have searched official records on GOV.UK Product Recalls for this brand and modelSearch the OPSS list of product safety alerts, reports and recalls. A clear search is not a guarantee — spellings and model codes vary.
CheckI can get the original instructions (paper copy or a download from the maker)OPSS advises checking that instructions come with the product or are available online, especially for mechanical items.
Must passThe maker’s weight and age range covers my baby — including a newborn insert if needed

Ask the seller

AskHow has it been washed, and has any buckle been replaced?

Hands-on at the meeting

Must passFabric, seams and padding are not worn through, sun-rotted or coming unstitched
Must passEvery buckle clicks, every ring is true (not bent), and adjusters hold under a firm tug
CheckT.I.C.K.S. — Tight: I can try it (or watch the seller) and the baby is held snug, not slumping
CheckT.I.C.K.S. — In view at all times: I can see the baby’s face, not buried in fabric
CheckT.I.C.K.S. — Close enough to kiss: the head is high on my chest
CheckT.I.C.K.S. — Keep chin off the chest: there is a finger-width under the chin; the neck is not folded
CheckT.I.C.K.S. — Supported back: the back is supported in a natural position, bottom sits deep, knees higher than the hips
Write downI have written down brand, model and any standard mark

Walk away if

Frayed seams, a buckle that pops, or a bent ring.
You cannot keep the baby in view with chin off the chest.
The weight range does not cover your baby.
Official records on GOV.UK list a recall for this model.

This viewing

Before you leave the house

Ask the seller

Hands-on at the meeting

Walk away if

Notes at the meeting