Parents are being warned against breastfeeding in baby slings after the heartbreaking death of seven-week-old James “Jimmy” Alderman.

He was feeding in a soft baby carrier worn by his mother when she noticed something was wrong. Though she thought he looked fine, Jimmy had stopped breathing. Despite immediate medical efforts, he died three days later from suffocation, caused by poor positioning.

“Jimmy died because his airway was occluded as he was not held in a safe position while within the sling,” confirmed Lydia Brown, Senior Coroner for West London.

His father, George Alderman, said, “We are really pleased that leading children’s safety organizations have updated their guidance… but why did it have to be Jimmy for something to change?”

In response to Jimmy’s inquest, health officials issued immediate updates. Experts now clearly warn that “hands-free breastfeeding or bottle feeding… is unsafe,” especially for babies under four months, preemies, or infants with health issues.

This tragedy exposed serious gaps in babywearing guidance — particularly during feeding. Many parents remain unaware of the risk, assuming slings are always safe for multitasking.