Baby Slings

Baby Slings

What is a sling?

A sling is a type of baby carrier that is made from a simple piece of fabric that is worn over one shoulder and wrapped around the wearer’s opposite hip. Slings are simple baby carriers that are available in a few variations which include ring slings, pouches, unpadded slings and padded slings. Though each variation of the sling has the same basic design each features a slight variation that offers parents a different advantage. For instance, a pouch is a loop of fabric that is designed to fit the wearer perfectly without the need for adjustments.

Although slings are best suited for use with younger infants they can be used to carry toddlers as well as long as the child’s weight is within the manufacturer’s suggested weight capacity.

What carry positions can be used with a sling?

When you select a sling as your carrier, your little one can be carried in a variety of positions. The most commonly used carry position used with a sling is the front carry; however, it can also be used to carry your child on your back or hip.

A child should only be carried facing you when he is on your hip in a sling. If carried in a sling on your back, baby should be facing you while sitting up with his legs outside of the sling. There are a variety of front carry positions that can be used with your sling. They include:

• Lying down in a semi-reclining cradle hold that is often used for nursing.

• Sitting up while facing you with his feet tucked under which is often referred to as the newborn snuggle position.

• As your child grows older the newborn snuggle can be transitioned to the snuggle position which is the same except his feet can be popped out of the bottom of the sling.

• Older children can also transition the newborn snuggle to the Buddha position in which they sit up facing out with both feet tucked into the sling.

• Sitting up while facing sideways is also a comfortable front position variation.

Slings offer the greatest amount of versatility and adjustability. The simple design offers you a wide range of carrying positions and the ability to adjust it for a perfect fit. The extra fabric tail of a sling allows you to breastfeed discreetly while also allowing to multi-task while at home, out running errands or to grab a bite to eat yourself.
A sling provides a high level of comfort for both you and your newborn when he is carried for an extended length of time. Since most slings are offered in a wide array of fabric and color choices you can purchase a few selections that will coordinate with your wardrobe.

If a sling doesn’t seem to be the best type of carrier for your babywearing needs, you may find that our article on the different Baby Carrier Types and our Baby Carrier Buying Guide can help to lead you in the right direction.