Articles/How to Choose

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How to choose a baby sling or baby carier

Baby Slings

Baby Slings are typically one shouldered carriers with a modern spin on the very traditional design of the rebozo (short wrap, tied across one shoulder). These types of baby slings are great for newborns as well as toddlers. Little babies are most easily carried in a cradle(laying down) position,older children on the hip. This type of baby sling can be used on the back with older children for short periods.The downside of these carriers is that the weight distribution is somewhat uneven since they go over only one shoulder.

Pouches

hotslings pouch baby sling hip carry The most simple to use, fast in, fast out, sleek style with no extraneous fabric. And, they come in hip, cool, prints! Pouches are our favorite baby sling for quick in and out. They must be sized to the individual, some people find them uncomfortable for long wearing since they go over only one shoulder. Newborns must be held in a reclining position. Our favorite for the fashionable mamma. More about pouches

Ring Sling

Man wearing a Ring Baby sling More adjustable than a pouch, most people can wear one size, many beautiful fabrics. The tail of the sling can be used as a cover up for nursing or can be tucked under the sling or wrapped around the rings. Very long tails can be quite elegant and can be pulled through the rings to shorten the tail & show only the front of the fabric. If you don't like the tail, you can tuck it under the baby, wrap it around the rings, or tuck it into the sling to make a pillow for the baby. Our Favorite for nursing in a carrier with minimal excess fabric. Newborns can be held upright or reclining. The Maya Wrap baby carrier is one well known brand of rings sling (not a wrap as the name would imply).


Wraps

The most comfortable; The most versatile; the best support for baby; Ergonomic support for both baby and the caregiver Studies show that wraps support the spine and hips better than any other carrier – especially for newborns. Many people who have back trouble report that the wrap is the only carrier they can comfortably use for long periods. Cons:Lots of fabric. Can get hot. Somewhat steep learning curve (most people can learn at least one tying method in 15-20 minutes of practice). Wraps come in 2 major categories:

Strechy wraps

Moby wrap newborn baby sling The Moby Wrap or other stretchy wraps are easy for beginners – only one tying method. Nice and cuddly for newborns. Ideal for newborns - our favorite baby shower gift. Easy in/out. Cons: Better for smaller babies and front carries. Back carries are not usually recommended with stretchy wraps. Newborns can be held reclining, upright, facing in, facing out, or side sitting.

Woven Wraps

Ellaroo Wrap baby sling They do everything the stretchy wraps do and more! This is our favorite overall carrier . More supportive & versatile than the stretchy wrap. Carry your newborn to 3 year old on your front, back, or hip The higher end woven wraps such as The Storchenwiege are almost as cuddly as our stretchy wrap and highly recommend for newborns as well as toddlers. Breathable fabrics will keep you cooler and there are many more ways to tie your woven wrap.

Backpack Carriers

Mei Tai/Asian Carriers

Ellaroo Mei Tai baby slingThe Mei Tai (pronounced "may tie") is Our favorite Back Carrier. It is simple, made with beautiful fabrics, and easy to use. Your child's weight is supported evenly by both shoulders and your hips. Can be used on front or back. Occasionally used for hip carry. Can be used for newborn to 3 years old. Some people find it difficult to get infants less than 4-5 months old comfortable in the Mei Tai. Cons: not as versatile as a wrap.

Soft Structured Carrier:

Ergo baby sling carrier The Ergo Baby Carrier is easy to use, comparable in comfort to a Mei Tai some people find one or the other works better for their particular build). We find that it is easier to transfer the weight to the hips with a structured carrier. Cons: Not usually recommended for babies who cannot hold their heads up well. Not as versatile or as beautiful (in our opinion) as some of the other carriers. The baby carriers that we sell are comfortable and will last for many years. 4 months to 3 years or more. Dad's favorite.

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