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It's easy to get started babywearing with the many types of baby carriers out there including ring slings, wrap-around carriers, mei tais, and soft structured carriers.
Many moms and dads are learning about the benefits of babywearing and the joy of carrying their babies and toddlers close to them in a sling or carrier. While there are additional types of carriers available, some of the most popular include ring slings, wrap-around carriers, Mei tais (Asian-inspired carriers), and soft structured carriers. Breastfeeding is Easy in a Ring SlingRing slings are probably the most popular type of soft carrier and are one of the few types that can be found at major retailers. The ring sling is basically a long, pouchy piece of cotton fabric with two large rings at one end and a reinforced “tail” at the other. The tail is threaded through the rings and the sling is slipped over the head and one arm. Ring slings are very versatile and can accommodate newborns as well as toddlers. They come padded or unpadded and can be used in a variety of different positions, several of which allow for easy and discreet breastfeeding. Care must be taken when wearing a ring sling to pull the fabric evenly across the supporting shoulder instead of letting it bunch up at the neck, which can cause neck strain. Wrap-around Carriers Distribute Weight Comfortably Over Both ShouldersWrap-around carriers come in two types -- stretchy and non-stretchy. They are basically one surprisingly long piece of fabric that is wound around the body of the adult in a particular fashion. The process of tightly wrapping the fabric creates a sling that can secure a baby in a cradle hold or suspend her facing inward or outward from the carrier’s front. Additional wrapping techniques can be used to create hip and back carry positions as well. These types of slings can be quite versatile, comfortable and easy to breastfeed in. Some of the wrapping and tying instructions can be complicated, but, like many things, become easier with practice. Many of the holds involve wrapping the material over both shoulders, which distributes baby's weight rather comfortably. The differences between stretchy and non-stretchy wrap-around carriers are significant, so make sure you check out the details before committing to one or the other. Use Mei Tais to Comfortably Carry a Baby on Your BackThe Mei Tai is one of several Asian-inspired soft carriers that are becoming more and more popular with Western parents. A Mei Tai carrier is basically a square piece of cloth that serves as the “seat”, with straps at each corner. The bottom straps tie around the waist and the top straps are wrapped around the adult’s shoulders and body and tied in different fashions depending on the type of carry (back or front) and the size or age of the child. Some Mei Tais include a neck support so that newborns can be carried. Breastfeeding in a Mei Tai works well for babies over 3 months, but is difficult with a newborn as the baby is vertical and not in the cradle hold. This type of sling is also comfortable for the carrier as it distributes weight well across the shoulders and hips. Soft Structured Carriers for Older Babies and ToddlersSoft structured carriers have the shape of the Mei Tai, but have a bit more technology in them. They often have thick, padded shoulder straps, clips and even pockets. Your baby or toddler can be worn on your front or back, and while these types of carriers are generally not suitable for newborns, some manufacturers, such as the Ergo, do sell newborn inserts separately. These types of carriers are usually more expensive than other sling-type carriers. Breastfeeding in a soft structured carrier is not easily done without half-removing it. Whether you choose one sling to meet your needs or invest in two or three different types for different occasions, you and your baby will enjoy the time you spend as a babywearing couple. It’s best to shop online, as most major retailers do not carry a good selection. With the many prints and styles out there, you’re sure to find a carrier to fit your lifestyle and a fabric to fit your personality.
The copyright of the article Guide to Baby Slings in Attachment Parenting is owned by Christy Swift. Permission to republish Guide to Baby Slings in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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