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The Basics of Ring SlingsTypes, Carrying Positions, and Pros and Cons of Maya Wraps
Here is everything you need to know about ring slings: what they are, how to use them, carrying positions, and pros and cons.
As the benefits of babywearing become more and more well-known in Western cultures, parents are researching the different options for parenting their babies in arms. There are many types of slings out there, but the ring sling is still one of the most popular, versatile, and conducive to breastfeeding. Different Kinds of Ring SlingsAnother term used for a ring sling is a Maya Wrap, although this is only one manufacturer of these types of carriers. A ring sling is basically a large, pouchy piece of fabric (usually cotton or fleece) with two large rings at one end and a reinforced tail at the other. They are one of the few slings you’ll find at major retailers, but an online search will turn up many smaller manufacturers making a quality product in a much larger selection of fabrics. Some slings are padded, some are not. While the padding provides welcome cushioning for the shoulder, some wearers find it bulky and prefer an unpadded or minimally padded sling. Carrying Positions in a Ring SlingRing slings are highly versatile, hence why they are so popular. They accommodate newborns to toddlers and can be used in a variety of carrying positions. Newborns and small babies can be nestled in the “cradle hold”, where the baby is lying sideways across the body as if being cradled in arms. Newborns to older babies can be worn in the tummy-to-tummy “snuggle hold” or, if head control is good, can be worn forward-facing for a better look at the world. Older babies and toddlers can be worn on the hip or back. Putting on Your Ring SlingThread the tail through both of the rings, then double it back through the first ring. Slip your arm through the sling, followed by your head. The rings of the sling should rest in front of you just below the shoulder and the padding (if any) should be on the shoulder (ring slings can be worn on either shoulder). The tail should hang down your front with the manufacturer tag facing up. Pros and Cons of Ring SlingsThe only drawback to a ring sling is that it does place the weight of the baby on one shoulder, which can be uncomfortable for some wearers, especially if worn for long periods or if the child is heavy. Despite this, the ease of use, versatility, and breastfeeding-friendliness of this sling make it a must-have for many babywearers. Some ring sling owners who want to wear a baby or toddler for longer periods of time invest in a second sling such as a mei tai, soft-structured carrier or wrap for those occasions. Rings slings are quite versatile and can quickly become an indispensible piece of baby equipment. They also make great gifts for new mothers. There are additional tips and tricks you can learn to make the most of your ring sling, including proper sizing, adjustment, safety techniques, and techniques for nursing. Join a babywearing forum or a local club for more advice from fellow users, to chat about parenting, or even to strap on your slings for an outing. A ring sling is great rain or shine; it even fits nicely over a snowsuit.
The copyright of the article The Basics of Ring Slings in Attachment Parenting is owned by Christy Swift. Permission to republish The Basics of Ring Slings in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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