A quick guide to baby slings
There are so many types of baby slings and baby carriers on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one to buy for your baby. This article will guide you through the types of baby carriers available.
Ring slings are the easiest baby slings to use for breastfeeding. The baby sling is made of a piece of fabric threaded through two rings, forming a loop. The ring sling is worn over the shoulder, forming a pocket of fabric where the baby is either a sitting or lying position. The sling can be easily taken off and put back into place.
This type of sling is easily adjustable to suit different wearer's size and different wearing positions.
Ring slings can be used from birth and are also suitable for toddlers. They are an excellent sling for breastfeeding as they are adjustable allowing them to be lengthened to allow easy access to the nursing mother's breast. They can also be quickly adjusted once feeding is done.
Probably the most versatile of all the baby slings. A simple piece of fabric is tied around your body ensuring that your baby is held securely in place. Your baby
can be carried on your front, back or hip. It is easy to tie your baby wrap to breastfeed on the go.
Baby wraps are particularly recommended for young babies, babies with reflux and parents suffering from back problems.
As the fabric is wrapped around your waist, shoulders and hips, the baby's weight is well distributed which means they remain comfortable even with a heavy toddler. It may take time to learn how to tie the sling correctly but the effort will be worthwhile.
Soft baby carriers and baby backpacks
Soft structured baby carriers and baby backpacks are also extremely popular and rightly so as they are convenient and easy to use. Tie-on baby carriers are inspired from Asian baby carriers, two straps tied at the waist and two straps are wrapped around the shoulders and back. The buckle baby backpacks have improved a lot over the last few years, offering a true birth to toddler option.
Once you have got the hang on putting them on, they are vry comfortable and will allow you to carry your baby or toddler for many hours - I carried my daughter until she was 4 and 1/2 years old.
Pouch Sling
Pouch slings are probably some of the easiest slings to use. The baby sling is sewn into a tubular shape with a curve to hold the baby more securely in place. The baby sling is slipped over the wearer's head and worn sash-style across the body. Most baby wearers find that they adapt to using the pouch sling very quickly. You need to choose your baby pouch size correctly as most aren't adjustable.
Pouch slings can be used from baby to toddler and are convenient when the child needs to be taken in and out of the baby sling frequently. As they are worn on one shoulder, they can be less comfortable for a toddler.
Pouch slings offer excellent value for money and are relatively easy to make.
We hope that this article has helped you find your way among the wealth of baby slings and baby carriers out there. Don't hesitate to contact us to find out which one will suit your needs most.
Created: November 5, 2009
