Baby slings and baby carriers

Slings or baby carriers can be a fantastic alternative to a pram especially if you have a ‘fussy’ child or more than one child.

They allow you to still have your hands free to do other things and most babies react well to the comfort and security of being snuggled close.

When looking at the best carrier for your individual needs it comes down to how often you will use it, if you want to use it right from birth (not all are applicable for this), the style you prefer, the type, etc.

Carriers and baby slings can range in price from $100- $500+.

There are warnings to be cautious when using a sling or wrap for babies under 4 months as there has previously been injuries and deaths associated with them.

There is no Australian Standard at present for slings or carriers but there is a European Standard EN 13209-2 (2005-11) to be aware of when purchasing one.

There are many different types of carriers and slings.

It is important to find the one that best suits you.

With so many on the market it is hard to know which one is best so we suggest that you try as many of them on as you can. Or if your friends with babies have any or have previously used them ask them for their opinions and/or to try theirs.

Not all are the same in the way they fit, ease of use, etc. It is recommended that both parents (or the people who will be using them regularly) try them as well as it may fit well for one person but not be a good fit for the other.

It is important to those that intend on using them that it fits correctly and comfortable.

1. A pouch or padded carrier. This is the more traditional on the market and is padded material.

2. A sling. Whereby the baby is wrapped across or around your body.

3. A wrap. Cloth that ties across the body and shoulders.

• How easy it is in using a sling/carrier.
• Fitting the baby into and take them out by yourself.
• Undo and adjust the straps, belts and buckles.
• Putting it on and taking it off.
• The support and comfort for the baby and yourself (especially the back straps).
• Security when moving and the baby is safely and securely in the sling/carrier. This included when bending down, the support to the baby’s head when not using hands to help hold the baby, etc.
• Walking up/down stairs.
• Bending to pick something up.
• Where and the comfort of the buckles, clips, etc.
• The width of the straps.
• How evenly the baby’s weight is distributed.
• The room for babies to move.
• The carrier needs to not give you shoulder pain or whether the baby can be easily able to sit in either way.
• Good instructions are also helpful in the beginning of the use of the product you choose.
• Circulation of air. Does air circulate for the baby to be able to breathe fresh air?

As babies grow, they enjoy being carried face outwards and getting an adult-level view of the world as opposed to the lower view of what a pram offers.

• Comfort is important: If the sling gives you backache, no matter how much your baby loves it, you aren’t going to use it and it’s not good for you. Look for well-padded, wide shoulder and back straps that distribute weight evenly and don’t dig in, or one that distributes the weight between the shoulders and the hip.
• Support: The sling should support the baby’s head, neck and back and should ideally be adjustable so support is maintained as she grows. Some models are able to be used from birth.
• Ease of use: Just how easy is it to put on when you are alone with the baby?
• Adjustability: The ability to adjust the sling to accommodate your size/shape is particularly important if more than one adult will be using it and you are of varying heights. It’s also important that it can adapt to suit the baby. Most baby carriers allow the baby to face inwards or forwards. If you plan on using your sling into toddler-dom chose one that has arm and leg holes with room for expansion and that the straps lengthen to allow for growth. Some models allow for discreet breastfeeding, which may or may not be important to you.
• Price: If you plan on using it as a serious alternative to a pram, it’s worth investing in something ultra-comfortable that will last and then becomes more cost effective. If it’s for occasional use only while the baby is small, a more mid-range model may be more suited. Do be careful about cheaper ones as they may be less expensive but are they going to go the distance?
• Look out for all those little extras: Some models offer little extras like detachable dribble bibs, dummy holders, pockets, but none of this is matters if the sling isn’t comfortable or doesn’t suit your purpose, it’s not worth sacrificing good design for looks/ trimmings.

• Make sure that your baby is able to breathe easily and that their face isn’t covered. If using a sling make sure you check on your baby regularly.
• Be careful putting it on and taking it of. This is when a lot of accidents occur.
• Ensure your baby fits in the carrier or sling snugly but that it isn’t too small (or big) either. This will help to alleviate your child’s leg falling or your child slipping. Use one that matches the recommended age/weight for that sling or carrier.
• Ensure that there is adequate support. This is particularly important for babies and their necks.
• Be careful when bending over. It’s recommended to hold your baby in this instance to be sure.
• Look for straps that adjust with one hand. This will not only make your life easier it is the safest way as well.