On July 1, 2024, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)approved a revised version of ASTM F2236 and published ASTM F2236-24in August 2024.

This ASTM standard covers performance requirements and test methods of soft infant and toddler carriers. lt also provides requirements for labeling and instructional literature to promote safe use of the soft infant and toddler carriers by an occupant and a caregiver.

A soft infant and toddler carrier is a product, normally of sewn fabric construction, which is designed to contain a full-term infant to a toddler generally in an upright position, in close proximity to the caregiver. In general, the child will weigh between 7 lb and 45 lb (3.2 kg and 20.4 kg).The soft infant and toddler carrier is normally “worn" by the caregiver with a child positioned in the carrier and the weight of the child and carrier suspended from one or both shoulders of the caregiver. These products may be worn on the front, side, or back of the caregiver's body with the infant either facing towards or away from the caregiver. This consumer safety specification does not include products generally referred to as "slings”.

Compared to the previous version, the most significant change in ASTMF2236-24 is to update the content requirements of the product label and instructional literature and add the warning to meet the format requirements of ANSl Z535.4-2011.

Significant changes to the standard from ASTM F2236-16a to ASTM F223624 are described below:

Update the description of each definition in Clause 3:

Update the title of Clause 5.7 to flammability of Soft Infant and Toddler Carriers,

Update the description of Clause 5.7.2

Add Clause 5.7.3 stating that non-toy accessories sold with or attached to the products shall also comply with the requirements of Clause 5.7;

Update the requirements of Clause 8 & 9 regarding product labeling and instructional literature.

Example of Warning Statements: