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Home › Articles › Baby Gear › Something to Sling About

Something to Sling About

Baby Carriers Are a Great Tool for New Moms

By Teri Brown

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If so, make sure the carrier is adjustable (like an adjustable forward facing carrier, adjustable pouch, ring sling or wrap).

  • How long do you plan on using the carrier? Most forward facing carriers go up to 25 pounds, whereas other carriers (slings, mei tais and wraps) go up to 35 pounds, extending wear time by over a year.
  • How easy do you need it to be? Easiest is a pouch sling that you can simply slip over your head and pop the baby inside. Forward-facing carriers are easy, but not as versatile. A bit more difficult but also more versatile is the ring sling. Even more difficult but again more versatile is the wrap-style carrier.
  • Do you want to be able to use the carrier immediately after baby is born? Adjustable pouches, ring slings and wraps allow you to wear your baby immediately after birth. Most front-facing carriers require an 8 pound minimum weight.

Most carriers are very safe, though some mothers caution against wearing them while out on a walk unless supporting the baby with one arm. Some pediatricians, such as Dr. William Sears, personally recommend baby wearing with a sling and many come with a safety certification.

Of the myriad tools a mother has in her arsenal against fussy babies, a baby carrier may be the most important. Not only will it allow you to work while comforting your baby, but it can aid in that all important parent/child bonding, which makes for a happier, more contented baby.

The Different Kinds of Carriers and Slings

Pouches and Tubes: Pouch and tube slings are usually made of a slightly stretchy material. They are one piece of material so you don't have to deal with straps or buckles.

Wraps: Wraps usually need to be tied together and can sometimes be complicated, but they are more adjustable than the tubes.

Asian Style Carriers: These carriers go on the back, but are fairly comfortable and are useful when hiking or going on outings.

Front Pack Carriers: These are more like a baby back pack for the front. The baby can face in or out with these carriers.

iParenting Media Award-winning Carriers


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