How To Choose The Best Baby Slings and Carriers
Baby slings and carriers are quite the hot topic these days. Slings are great for newborns, but once your baby grows a little bigger, you’ll probably want to switch to a carrier that can hold them in place. In this article, we’ll explain how to choose the best sling or carrier for your baby.
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Is a sling better than a baby carrier?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Babies love being close to mommy, and they enjoy feeling snugly wrapped up in a sling. But slings don’t offer much support for the weight of your child as they grow older. If you want something more supportive, then consider using a baby carrier instead of a sling when your child reaches about six months of age—but keep in mind that carriers aren’t suitable until after your baby has learned how to sit up on their own!
Are baby slings safe for newborns?
If you want to use a sling during those first few weeks after birth (when newborns are very small), make sure that it’s made specifically for babies under 10 pounds and that it fits snugly around their head and neck so they don’t get smothered by loose fabric while they sleep. It’s also smart to avoid carriers that have loose straps, which could pose a strangulation hazard. When you’re shopping for a sling, make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly to ensure your baby’s safety!
Some baby slings and carriers can be adjusted so that you can breastfeed Baby while he is in the carrier. Here, one strap is loosened so that Baby is carried horizontally. Adjust the length of the straps so that his mouth is in line with your breasts.
Baby Carriers
There are many kinds of baby carriers and they range in price and the types of accessories that come with it. Some baby carriers are designed for newborns and young babies while others are really designed for older babies. Newborns and young babies who cannot hold their head up yet must be carried in front of the adult (not a backpack carrier) and be facing inwards (towards the adults chest).
Some baby carriers are made with soft flexible fabrics (almost like a sling) while other baby carriers are structurally robust. Some baby carriers can be converted from front-carriers to back-carriers.
Basically, there is no way to tell which baby carrier will work for you. If possible, try a friend’s carrier and see if you feel comfortable wearing it. Or, go to a department store which has display models that you can try.
Be warned: placing a baby into a carrier is not an easy task. It will take some practice before you can comfortably load-up a baby.
- See Baby Carriers Here
If you want a carrier but do not know which one to buy, I would recommend carriers made by Baby Bjorn. BabyBjorn’s are classic – they’re more expensive ($100+) but everyone I know who has one likes it.
Baby Slings
Slings have been around for hundreds of years and they are making a comeback in a variety of colors, fabrics, styles, and sizes. A sling is pretty much just a large sheet of fabric which you connect into a loop. Your baby rests comfortably inside the sling the same way a person rests comfortably in a hammock. Despite its carefree look, your baby won’t fall out of a sling when it is worn correctly.
Slings can be used for newborns and can be used for children as old as 2 years old. There are a variety of ways to wear a sling and a variety of ways as to how Baby is positioned (sitting, lying). Most slings are made of natural fibers so a sling can also be a statement: it shows your earthiness and your willingness to go back to the “old ways” in contrast to the modern day, “high tech” baby carriers. See baby slings and carriers here.
- See Baby Slings Here
Similar to baby carriers, babies carried in a sling can be breastfed while in it. Here, the sling is adjusted so that Baby is snug up close to your chest and his mouth is at the right height for nursing.
Backpack Carriers
For families who enjoy hiking and camping, I really recommend a backpack carrier. We love them so much that we have two! They may look a bit heavy and intimidating, but they are not that bad. Mostly made from a pneumatic parts, they might be lighter than you think. Of course you will need some power to take them up that hill with your baby inside.
- Check Some Backpack Carriers Here
Are baby slings and carriers a good idea?
Baby slings and carriers are a great idea if you’re looking for a way to comfortably carry your baby and free up your hands. They’re also a good idea if you’re looking for an alternative to the bulky stroller, or if your baby just isn’t a fan of being in their stroller. The sling is easy to use and comfortable for both you and your little one, so it’s a great option if you like the idea of having your baby close by while still being able to do other things (like cook dinner or read a book).
They are also super convenient if you’re traveling with your little one. You can easily put them in the sling when they’re sleeping and then take them out when they wake up—which means that you won’t have to lug around extra blankets!
