Today, slings are in increasing demand among mothers. And this is not an accident. The fabric design for carrying a baby, known since ancient times and different from hipsits and physiological backpacks, is suitable for newborn children. This is a bandage or scarf to hold the baby without using the mother's hands. What are the best baby slings to choose to ensure comfort for both mother and baby.
The superiority of baby slings
- the direct connection between the child and the mother affects his well-being and peace of mind;
- ergonomic shape contributes to the safety of the spinal column;
- stroller replacement;
- maternal mobility;
- comfort during breastfeeding.
Products are important for parents and children. There are cases where you cannot do without a device. Keeping hands busy, agility and mobility ensure trips to supermarkets, housework and breastfeeding in comfortable conditions.
Product Division
- Sling scarf. A large number of winding versions are available. The length of the product is about 6 m. It is used until children reach 3 years of age.
- May-sling. A rectangular or square piece of material with straps that are attached to the mother’s belt and back and distribute the load evenly across the muscles.
- With rings. A small hammock attached to metal rings. Two-meter fabric is used.
- Sling pocket. Suitable for newborns and older children. Allows you to position your child horizontally or vertically.
Video tips for choosing a sling:
The best slings for children on the Russian market
Kangaroo
Sling scarf from a Russian manufacturer. Texture: cotton. Creates softness and comfort for the child. Anti-allergenic fabric that allows children's skin to breathe. The two-tone combination is a distinctive design feature. There are about 10 coloring versions in the assortment. The convenience and simplicity of the device do not cause difficulties for beginners. The maximum weight of the baby does not exceed 12 kg. It is used for carrying the baby around the house and for walking on the street.
baby slings Kangarusha
Video instructions for a sling with rings:
Advantages:
- optimal price;
- convenient winding;
- harmless and environmentally friendly fabric;
- stylish appearance.
Flaws:
Average cost: 2000 rub.
The American family company has 10 years of experience in producing practical and durable slings. The model was tested on the children of the owners, which speaks of ergonomics, comfort and good quality. The use of cotton in the composition ensures 100% ventilation.
The correct posture of the child's head and neck is ensured, the body is in a natural position. Conditions are created for the safety of the child’s location. Fit for babies from birth and a child who weighs no more than 10 kg.
Boba baby slings
Advantages:
- texture quality;
- uniform load on mother's back;
- comfort;
- ventilation;
- presentable appearance.
Flaws:
- Expensive.
Average cost: 3900 rub.
Norwegian design ring sling. A variety of textures: linen, bamboo cotton. Will create comfortable conditions for a baby in the heat. Suitable for babies from birth to 12 kg. The brightness of the colors and magnificent design do not leave mothers indifferent. Feature models: bevel length and its triangular shape. Ensures safe carrying of the baby.
baby slings Ellevill Zara
Advantages:
- first-class fabric;
- unusual and stylish appearance;
- rich selection of coloring pages;
- resistance to heat treatment: washing, ironing.
Flaws:
- not cheap.
Average cost: 4999 rub.
Fil up Blue Jean
A sling scarf from a French manufacturer, 4.5 m long. Technical excellence coupled with durability and comfort. This exquisite wicker model will delight both mother and child. The thoughtfulness of the device down to the smallest details allows the product to stretch in width, but prohibits transformation in length.
Helps securely fix the baby in the correct physiological position. The softness and elasticity of the sample create a feeling of naturalness. Made from high quality cotton. Suitable for children aged 0 to 2.5 years.
baby slings Fil up Blue Jean
Fil up sling review:
Advantages:
- reliability;
- optimal ventilation;
- repeated washing does not affect the shape and appearance;
- Comes with a string bag;
- machine washable.
Flaws:
- are missing.
Average cost: 3310 rub.
Miracle Child
May-sling. Suitable for use from birth to 3 years. Attracts with the brightness of the colors, the beauty of the ornaments and images, and the choice of 12 variations. Pure cotton is characterized by delicacy when in contact with baby's skin. Provides compelling evidence for this model.
baby slings Miracle-Chado
Video review of a sling from this manufacturer:
Advantages:
- acceptability;
- goes to young parents;
- naturalness of fabrics.
Flaws:
- loss of color during washing.
Average cost: 1700 rub.
May-sling. Fit for newborns and two year olds. The width of the backrest is adjustable, which is important during the development of the baby. Ideally supports the baby's head and neck. Equipped with a hood that guarantees darkness while sleeping and protection from raindrops. Available in fashionable colors. Fabric: cotton.
baby slings AMAMA
Advantages:
- ease of attachment;
- practical hood;
- back adjustment;
- original interface;
- preservation of shape and color during operation.
Flaws:
- are missing.
Average cost: 2700 rub.
Sling scarf from Italian designers. Product length - 3.7 m. Target audience - children from birth to two years of age. Raw materials: bamboo and cotton. There is a variety of color palette of products available. Provides long-lasting wear without feeling pain or straining the mother’s back. Suitable for home and outdoor promenades. The baby feels a sense of comfort. The material used allows the skin to breathe.
baby slings Diva Milano
Advantages:
- modern look;
- naturalness of the canvas;
- good quality and wear resistance.
Flaws:
- Expensive;
- difficult to buy: not sold everywhere.
Average cost: 5249 rub.
Ring sling. Available in an incomparable design: an amazing pattern on a highly contrasting background. Moms have a chance to choose from three versions of the coloring book. The convenience of the rings is responsible for the ease of fastening the sample. The natural position of the child guarantees quick falling asleep and comfort. Promotes the correct formation of the baby's spine. Thin, high-quality material eliminates unwanted effects on the skin during the heat period.
baby slings 40 weeks
Advantages:
- budget cost;
- attractive design;
- comfort of form;
- ease of attachment.
Flaws:
- it is difficult to do everyday things;
- one shoulder is overloaded.
Average price: 1400 rub.
A distinctive feature of the specimen: natural texture, providing excellent ventilation and not causing allergies. The baby's sensitive epidermis is guaranteed to breathe and avoid negative sensations in hot weather. An extensive line of exceptional products is recommended. With newfangled drawings. The rings of the models vary in shades and are made from a safe texture.
baby slings Donna Vera
Advantages:
- aesthetics;
- wear resistance;
- convenience of placing a baby;
- increased ventilation;
- fabric safety.
Flaws:
- uneven load on the shoulders;
- It is rational to use when the baby is small.
Average cost: 2700 rub.
Sling with rings, the main material is natural linen. It is lightweight, compact and easy to wind. Reliable, stable rings will insure and protect the child. The shape of the model allows the baby to take the correct position. Has a positive effect on the growing body. However, regular load on the shoulder requires periodically changing sides; this is not very easy to do without outsiders.
baby slings Mum's Era
Video review of the device:
Advantages:
- basic regulation;
- decent texture;
- first class properties.
Flaws:
- shoulder overload;
- the appearance of pain symptoms in the back a short time after wearing the product.
Average cost: 2400 rubles.
Sling pocket. Available in dense texture. Particularly suitable for use in winter. Allows you to be in different positions with your mother. Offered in 2 versions and designed for babies weighing up to 12 kg. Equipped with elastic straps and a system to support the mother's back. The volume of the sample can be adjusted based on the child’s growth.
baby slings SELBY
Video review of the shoulder sling:
Advantages:
- fashionable look;
- quality factor of dense material;
- affordable price.
Flaws:
- restricts use;
- the child is located in an unnatural position.
Average cost: 1100 rub.
Ergo backpack. Suitable for newborns weighing from 3.5 kg. Supports a child up to 20 kg. Built-in infant insert available. The physiological form ensures the “frog” position and is a stimulator for the development of the baby’s muscles that have not yet had time to get stronger. The adjustable belt on the waist is securely fastened with a multi-point semi-automatic clasp.
baby slings Manduca
Advantages:
- using cotton as a layer inside;
- comfortable;
- the ability to carry a child up to two years of age;
- adjustable straps;
- safe fastex.
Flaws:
Average cost: 9000 rub.
Difficulty of choice
The sling pocket is an original device for carrying a baby vertically and horizontally. Externally, it is very different from other types of products. It often resembles a physiological backpack or hammock. A child is characterized by calmness. Some models are suitable for older children. The maximum weight of a child is 10 kg. Not all manufacturing companies produce products.
Ring slings are shaped like a bag by threading one end of the material through metal rings that are attached to the other end. The maximum length is 2 m. The carrier is characterized by convenience and ease of winding, which is not difficult for a novice mother, and can also be removed with ease. The child is provided with comfort and coolness even in the heat due to the single-layer fabric winding. The rings make it easier to adjust the baby's correct position and remove the product.
The May Sling is similar to an ergonomic safety backpack. The frameless design makes the product suitable for newborns. Available in rectangular or square shapes with straps going down the sides. The sling fits comfortably at the waist. Ease of use allows you to put on the model quite quickly. However, carrying a child is only possible vertically, and this is not always rational. Implies equal distribution of the load on the mother's back.
Scarf slings are made from specially designed highly elastic fabric, the length of which ranges from 3 to 6 m. They allow the child to be in the fetal position, as well as a horizontal position.
Wrapping occurs forward, behind and on the hips. It is a guarantee of safety for the child and is actively used from birth. Fit for three year olds. Valued for evenly distributing the load on the mother's back. Does not cause pain or discomfort when carrying the baby for a long time. But competent winding requires skill and practice. Functionality requires a high-quality texture and compliance with technological parameters.
The mother has the right to choose a model that is comfortable for her and the child.
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Many criteria determine which sling is best to choose for a newborn. Each model differs in the way it is put on, fastening, the position of the child, the quality of the material, and additional details. The device helps make the life of a young mother easier, and also has a number of other positive qualities. It is advisable to buy a sling from popular manufacturers.
A sling is a special linen device that can be used to carry a child up to 3 years old. The design of each type is different and is characterized by its advantages and disadvantages.
Sling scarf
The sling is a large canvas. It wraps around one or two shoulders. Since the canvas is large, there are many ways to wind it. The model can be woven or knitted. The former can only stretch in one direction, the latter can stretch in any direction.
TO positive qualities This model includes:
- it is possible to place the child in any position;
- Can be worn by older children;
- the sling is designed for long walks;
- the free end of the canvas can cover the child from the sun or wind;
- Use is allowed from the very first days of life.
The disadvantages of the model include the long time it takes to wind and fix. In addition, skills in winding the fabric are required to carry the baby in different positions.
With rings
The sling is a long, wide canvas. At one end of the fabric there are rings for fixation and a soft lining for the shoulder is sewn in, which ensures comfortable carrying of the child.
The free end of the canvas is pulled several times through the rings, a nest is formed in front, into which the baby is placed.
The advantages of the model include:
- use from birth;
- the ability to quickly change the baby’s position on the go;
- easy to use;
- The volume of the formed cavity is easily adjusted.
To avoid curvature of the spine, the strap is regularly transferred from one shoulder to the other. In addition, the baby needs to be supported with one hand.
The model looks like a wide rectangle, to which four long, wide straps are sewn at the corners.
The advantages of the product are:
- the ability to place the product on both shoulders;
- easy to use;
- You can carry your baby in different positions, including on your back.
The sling is not intended for long distance walks and is not suitable for children who have not yet learned to sit.
In the form of a backpack
The sling is made in the form of a backpack with wide adjustable straps. The main advantages of the product include the following characteristics:
- convenient and durable fastening;
- The baby can be placed with his back or tummy to his mother;
- a large selection of designs that differ in additional accessories and details.
The model is not suitable for newborn children and for those who have not yet learned to sit. Another disadvantage is that the baby's legs are too far apart.
Selection criteria
The main criteria that should be followed when choosing a product include size and quality of material.
Material
When choosing a product special attention It is worth paying attention to the material from which it is made. The fabric should be:
- dense and elastic;
- soft and smooth;
- breathable and moisture-absorbing;
- hypoallergenic;
- durable.
It is better to choose a product made of linen or calico. For older children, it is better to choose slings made from fabrics that do not stretch too much. Fabrics that are not stretchy at all will dig into the mother’s shoulder and the baby’s skin. The ideal option is jacquard.
Advice. You should choose a material with embossed weaving. The surface of slings with this material is tenacious, so the child will not slip.
Width
Slings come in different widths:
- If the material is stretchy, then it is better to choose a smaller width. The optimal size is 62 cm.
- Non-stretch fabrics are tied with greater loss of size, so the width should be 25 cm larger.
- Ring slings are available in a width of 75 cm.
- May slings are 45 cm wide.
When choosing the width, determine the purpose for which the product will be used. A wide canvas is more difficult to fix, but it is more comfortable for a child to sit in it.
Size
Slings come in different sizes:
- The long canvas is suitable for long distance walks. Two wide straps are made from it. It’s easy to carry even a large child without your back feeling the strain.
- Fewer tying options for short fabric. The support strap only goes over one shoulder, so this option is only suitable for short hikes.
In addition to these conditions, when choosing the size of a sling, the size of the woman who will carry the baby is taken into account. For women whose clothing size is no more than 44, it is necessary to purchase fabric up to 4 meters. If clothes are larger than size 46, it is better to choose a 5-meter fabric. For large people, a sling 6 meters long is suitable.
Depending on the season
Slings are also chosen according to the season.
Requirements for a summer sling:
- In summer, it is better to choose a product made from materials such as linen, silk, bamboo, and cotton. Slings made from these materials allow air to pass through well.
- There is no need to choose a canvas that is too long. Otherwise, several layers of fabric will warm the baby and mother even more.
- The color of the fabric is chosen to be light, since it attracts the sun's rays least of all.
A winter sling should not only be reliable, but also warm. You should choose slings made of cotton or containing wool. You can wear the baby either under outerwear, and on top of it.
How to choose a sling
When choosing a sling, it is important to take into account the physiological characteristics of the child’s development and his health. It is also important to consider the duration of wearing.
For newborns
From birth, the child has a curved spine and cannot hold his head up. In a sling, the baby's legs should be slightly bent and apart. It is best to choose scarf-shaped slings for newborns, including a model with rings. In these products, a child up to 3 months can be comfortably carried in a lying position.
For older children
As your baby gets older, there are more ways to carry him. Become uncomfortable knitwear, which begin to pull down under the weight of the child. The ring sling begins to put pressure on the shoulders under the weight of the growing child.
For children over six months old, baby slings, scarves, and backpacks are suitable. Each option involves carrying the baby in various positions, not only on the stomach.
Rating of the best models for babies and mothers
To be sure of the quality and safety of the product, you should buy the product only in specialized stores. The manufacturer must be well-known and have positive reviews.
A scarf of this brand can support a child up to 16 kg. Length 5.5 meters, width - 62 cm. The product is soft and light, made of natural cotton. It is possible to carry a baby not only on your stomach. The scarf has a marking in the middle that makes the winding process easier.
MENDI TIFFANI
The model allows you to carry babies from the first days. There is a mark on both sides of the scarf that indicates the start of winding. Material - natural Indian cotton with jacquard weaving. The length of the product can be 4.5 cm or 5.5 cm.
The manufacturer uses fabrics with beautiful unusual patterns. When wound correctly, the child is securely fixed. The model is suitable for mothers who like to walk a lot and for a long time.
Zaffiro
The model is designed to carry children from birth to 2.5 years. It is possible to carry the child in different positions. The product is light, soft, the base is linen and cotton.
The product is safe for baby's delicate skin. Available in plastic rings that are durable and reliable. Since the material is quite dense, it is better not to use a sling in hot weather. Since the web is wound over one shoulder, it is necessary to support the head while performing any actions.
The long blade has two strong metal rings at one end. Natural cotton, jacquard weave, easy to care for. The sling keeps the baby warm in cool weather. The fabric is soft, pleasant, wear-resistant. It is easy to change the position of the baby; to do this, you just need to relax the rings. The disadvantages of the model are that the sling is fixed on one shoulder. It is important to tighten the blade correctly. It is imperative to support the baby's head, so only one hand remains free.
Tokyo Hotslings
The sling is suitable for children who are already taking their first steps. The canvas has the shape of a ring thrown over the shoulder. There is a recess in front where the child sits. Material - natural cotton. Models have different sizes. The sling is easy to use. It is enough to throw the fabric over your shoulder; you do not need to have the skills of winding and adjusting.
Basic
The sling looks like a rectangular fabric, with wide, long straps sewn to the corners. Suitable for long walks without leaving mom's back tired. Can be used from the first days of life until 2.5 years. The fabric material is cotton.
There are four baby carrying positions. The product is fixed at the waist using a special fastener. There is an additional elastic band that protects the child from falling if the latch is accidentally opened.
AIR “Wise Birds”
The backpack for carrying a baby is easy to use, distributes the load, so the back does not get tired even with long walking. Suitable for children who have learned to sit independently.
All models have beautiful, bright colors and a convenient pocket. The shoulder straps are adjustable. The kit includes a hood that supports the baby's head if he sleeps.
Hipsite Pognae ORGA
The product consists of a small seat with an attached back. The backrest is height adjustable. Children can only be carried in an upright position, so use is permitted after six months. The length of the belt at mom's waist can be changed.
Klyuykov Sasha, 6 years old
Slings are usually called a number of fabric slings of different designs for carrying small children on oneself.
Most psychologists say that children who are “ridden by their mothers” during the first year of their lives have a very strong basic sense of security and grow up calm and self-confident. Pediatricians also have nothing against slings, but at the same time, they emphasize the need for their correct use.
You should not carry the baby for more than 2-3 hours, and you should also not place him face forward, because in this position the child’s spine will be without support and as a result, the legs may separate incorrectly. The sitting position should resemble the “Turkish” version, when the weight is directed not only to the spine, but also to the legs and hips. Particular attention should be paid in this matter to children who cannot sit independently. In a supine position, the sling is very similar to the position of mother’s hands. The back and head are supported along the entire length, which is a must for children up to two months old!
Why do you need a sling at all, you ask?! There are so many beautiful strollers in stores! In response, I will suggest that you drag the stroller with your child once onto the crossing bridge over the railway tracks, make a trip with a couple of transfers in the Moscow metro and get into a children's store located on the third floor in a shopping complex without an elevator or escalators.
For those who are still not convinced that I’m right, I can hand over a child with colic/teething/who has confused day and night, and offer to calm the baby down, while cleaning the house and preparing dinner... Well, I’ll finish with a simple truth: there are children who refuse deal with strollers. In principle. And, generally speaking, there are a lot of them – ready to cry for hours in a personal children’s “transport”, demanding to be picked up.
Inexperienced mothers who decide to carry the child on themselves sometimes allow big mistake– they buy a sling even before the baby is born, having heard stories from friends who have already given birth. And when the baby refuses to sit in the sling, they get upset and begin to think that their child is not like those who happily fit into the bag.
The fact is that the same type of sling cannot suit both a very small baby and an older baby at the same time. Hence the child’s tears when trying to seat him in something that may not yet suit him.
Megabytes of data about types of slings, history, theory and practice of babywearing (coupled with tons of articles of varying degrees of reliability about the only the right ways raising SlingoMan Happy) is easy to find on the Internet. All slings have one thing in common – the way the baby fits in them. The child does not dangle, leaning on the crotch, he is cozy and comfortable.
Which sling to choose
The sling should be selected based on the weight of the child; the larger it is, the less the fabric should stretch. In addition, the hotter it is outside, the thinner the material the sling should be made of. Of course, in summer, preference should be given to models made from natural fabrics. Also keep in mind that the fabric should stretch well in width and almost not stretch in length.
Conventionally, slings can be divided into three groups:
Sling scarf
They happen different lengths and width. They are pieces of fabric up to 6 meters long - knitted or woven. From the outside they seem very difficult to use - the mother wraps this fabric around herself in a certain way and places the child in the resulting “nest”. In fact, you can learn the art of winding a sling in just a couple of attempts - with the help of a person experienced in this matter or by viewing photo or video instructions, of which there are plenty on the Internet.
Consultants recommend a sling scarf as the best option if the mother plans to carry the baby for a long time and a lot. The child can sit and lie in it, tightly secured with several layers of fabric. The sling scarf is tied around the mother, forming a pocket in which the baby is located. It seems difficult at first. But, according to experienced sling moms, even when carrying a baby on their back, they spend no more than 30 seconds tying. Of course, you need to get used to it and then this process will become automatic. The sling scarve can be worn on either one or two shoulders.
According to the experience of my friends and my own, a scarf is the most comfortable device for carrying both a newborn and a heavy baby. A properly wound scarf perfectly compensates for the baby's weight and distributes it evenly, allowing you to carry your baby in a variety of ways. According to my feelings, the scarf easily gives a head start to even the Very Cool Kangaroo (to say with pathos, to fall on your face at the sight of the price tag).
Slings of this type are sewn from knitwear and non-stretch fabric. And although knitted ones are easier to tie and adjust, it is better to start wearing this type of sling from a non-stretch fabric. The fact is that the larger the child, the more the knitwear will stretch. In addition, you can’t really wear it in hot weather; the greenhouse effect is guaranteed. In a fabric sling-scarf it will be easier in the summer, although it will still cause a little discomfort due to the tight fit around the body. But the baby’s safety comes first, so you’ll have to be patient. With sufficient skill, you can carry a child on your hip.
Of course, getting a baby in and out of a sling scarf is not so easy for beginners; it requires practice. Therefore, for long trips with children, it is best to use an “Asian” model - a May-sling, reminiscent of a “kangaroo” (more about it below).
Ring sling
This is a group of slings that are worn over the shoulder, obliquely. Accordingly, the child’s weight is not distributed between the shoulders, back and lower back, but is concentrated on one shoulder of the parent. Although the manufacturers claim that with proper use there can be no discomfort, in reality the moment when it becomes difficult still comes, especially for those who suffer from long-standing back problems. However, this sling is good in a situation where you move in short bursts, or your child is still very small, or you carry him on your hip, or he often asks to be on the ground, and then again in your arms.
A baby can be carried in a ring sling from birth. It is comfortable both as a crib position and in a sitting and upright position. In a sling with rings, the baby can be in front and on the mother's hip. The tension of the fabric between the rings allows you to tightly fix the baby. This type of sling makes it comfortable to breastfeed your baby. It is also good because it is easy to put a fallen child into bed without waking him up. However, you need to be prepared for the fact that the ring sling does not free your hands. You need to constantly hold the lying baby with one hand. In other words, there will be no freedom of action.
The ring sling is selected according to size. They are on sale large size and neutral colors that will be comfortable for dad to wear.
Lately, large scarves, which many years ago mothers used to tie their babies to themselves, have also become fashionable. There are many different ways to tie a scarf, which depend on the age and weight of the child and the physical capabilities of the mother.
Sling with straps
Such slings are more reminiscent of modern baby carriers. This group includes many devices, whose designs are borrowed from different peoples of the world. This includes both slings, consisting of a rectangle of fabric with four straps, and backpacks for carrying children, which differ from “kangaroos” in the way the child is seated - the baby wraps his legs around the mother.
May-sling is an improved version of the scarf sling. Don't confuse it with a kangaroo! May-sling is much more physiological.
A May-sling is a rectangle of thick fabric designed to support a child's back. Four long straps are sewn into the “back”. The top straps are tied at the mother's waist. The upper straps are thrown over the mother's shoulders, crossed, brought back, crossed again behind the child's back and tied at the mother's waist.
The advantages of a May-sling: it is not hot to use in the hot season, you can carry even a heavy child without harm to the spine. Websites selling May-slings indicate that they can be used from the birth of a child, holding the baby as tightly as possible and spreading his legs like a “frog.” However, sling mothers advise using this type of sling only from the time when the baby begins to confidently hold his head and his spine becomes stronger. Most optimal age– from 4 months.
In a May-sling, the child is only in an upright position. You can carry your baby either in front or on your back. In the second case - from 6 months.
One of the varieties of May-sling is the so-called “fast-sling”, or “octopus-sling”. It differs in that the upper straps do not cross over the child’s back, but are “snapped” to the side edges of the back with Fastex fasteners. Putting on a fast sling is faster and easier than a May sling. The position of the child in the fast sling is also only vertical.
The Japanese sling onbuhimo is similar in appearance to the May sling. It differs only in that instead of a lower waist strap it has rings. If in a May-sling the upper straps cross behind the baby's back, then in the case of an onbuhimo they are threaded through rings and tied.
In the Korean sling, podeagi, podegi, children are usually carried on the back. Podegi looks like a long, wide apron, however, its “belt” is located not at the mother’s waist, but under the armpits. The baby is placed on the mother’s back, covered with a sling, the straps of the sling are crossed on the mother’s chest, then under the baby’s hips over the fabric and tied at the mother’s waist.
Advantages of slings
The advantages of slings are obvious - where a stroller won’t fit and a car seat won’t fit, the baby will crawl on his mother and nothing will happen to him. A sling gives you a pair of free hands, and carrying a baby in a sling is much easier than in your arms. I’ll say more: you can breastfeed your baby in a sling, and no one will notice anything. The sling will also help out when the child is naughty or unwell. Again, you can have a whole collection of slings in different colors to match your eyes, jacket, T-shirt, and a special camouflage sling for daddy: let him proudly wear his heir.
Disadvantages of slings
Of course, there are also disadvantages. Let's face it, the price of some branded slings is quite comparable to the cost of a cane stroller. In addition, you will immediately want to buy a coat, jacket and poncho especially for the babywearing mother, as well as special booties for the babywearing baby and something else equally important.
In short, sling manufacturers are just as cynical and just as hungry for your money as all other manufacturers of baby products. In addition, you will have to dress yourself and dress your child completely differently, otherwise you will simply sweat under the layers of fabric. It’s hot in a sling in the summer, no matter who assures you otherwise! Even if the sling is specially woven from environmentally friendly hemp, three layers of any fabric plus a warm baby pressed against you will quite successfully serve as a heating pad! Well, it’s purely girlish – with a baby in a sling (especially if the baby is sleeping soundly), you can’t go on a great shopping spree, you can’t try on shoes and clothes to your heart’s content...
Slingomams
Perhaps more interesting than the species diversity of the sling family is the classification of those who use them.
“The sling-didn’t-go-with-us-mom” honestly buys a sling on the recommendation of a friend and either tries to use it a couple of times, or doesn’t even take it out of the package. In any case, nothing works out for her, and with a pure soul she tells everyone that this device did not suit her child.
"Sling user", on the contrary, she tries and it works. She easily combines a stroller and a sling and treats the latter as a convenient tool in some situations.
"Slingofashionista" collects an extensive collection of slings in different colors to always look your best. Surely no one will mistake her for a beggar or a gypsy - her toilet is always exquisite, even if a 12-kilogram toddler is used as an additional “accessory”.
"Sling experimenter" also has a lot of slings, but she is driven by the desire to find one that is even more fun and comfortable than all the ones she already has. At some point she despairs of finding an ideal and sits down to sewing machine herself, conjuring patterns from the Internet. It is this mother who knows exactly which fabric from Ikea is best suited for slings in the “cheap and cheerful” category.
"Anxious Slingomam" passionately believes in the sling and the benefits it can provide. She is capable of crying all day if the child wants to walk with his legs - because she misses the baby so much!
"Sling fanatic" elevates the use of a sling to the rank of a life philosophy. He dreams of burning all the strollers at the stake of the Inquisition. She is quite capable of coming up with a “false refusal of the sling” for her child and overcoming it. She is horrified at the sight of toy strollers that children play with - her child will only receive a baby sling for his dolls and teddy bears! He is friends exclusively with baby sling mothers, and stops communicating with more traditional mothers. He sincerely feels sorry for children in strollers, considers them mentally retarded and/or seriously mentally traumatized. She is able to leave her previous job and specialty for the sake of sewing slings, or courier delivery and training for beginners. He retrains as a “sling consultant” and goes to teach people.
Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against babywearing consultants and activists! However, the babywearing fan is distinguished by true intransigence in matters of carrying children.
Security measures
When wearing a sling, it is very important for the mother not to forget that the baby is on her. Sling consultants urge you to be very careful when passing through doors, between shelves in stores, and on public transport. When the baby is in a sling and there is a threat nearby, cover your main wealth with your hand and protect the baby from anything that could harm him.
Despite the benefits of wearing a sling, there are times when it is better to prefer a stroller. For example, if mom is going on a forced march to the shops and her hands are full of shopping bags. This means that the baby will not be provided with proper protection. The use of a sling is strictly prohibited in icy conditions. You should not carry the baby if the mother is pregnant again. Also the sling is not best choice when walking with an already grown child and a baby. An older child prefers active games, and his mother will not be able to keep him company. In this case, it is preferable to arrange a walk with a stroller for the safety of both children.
The cost of slings is quite affordable - from 700 rubles. Exclusive models of stunningly beautiful colors are also offered, starting from 2,500 rubles.
If you choose slings, purchase products only from well-known manufacturers. It is approved by pediatricians. Beware of fakes. After all, they can very easily cause irreparable harm to the health of your child.
If a new addition is expected in the family, you are probably trying to prepare in advance for the new arrival. new world the little man felt comfortable and cozy. Unfortunately, many modern parents choose good strollers, cribs, and a huge number of different children's trousseaus, but they don’t even look in the direction of slings. And completely in vain! This accessory can make life much easier for parents. And the baby will probably be delighted with it.
If you still don't know what it is, be sure to check out the contents of this article. In it you will find descriptions of the most popular fabrics, styles, and see many photographs. In addition, there will be given practical advice, telling you how to choose a sling. The experience of many parents suggests that this accessory is not just an unusual addition, and certainly not a toy. In fact, it can be a great alternative to a stroller. But its most valuable find is for special children. As well as for special mothers.
Why a sling?
The high pace of modern life dictates its own conditions. Not every woman agrees to the role of a housewife after the birth of a baby. Some continue to work, travel, do what they love and improve themselves. And what could be better than free hands and the ever-present opportunity to feed your baby? Perhaps one cannot even dream of more.
These are the prospects a sling opens up for parents. It allows you to not have to use your hands while carrying the baby, and the baby is much more comfortable in it. Noticing that the little passenger is hungry, the mother can feed him unnoticed. Of course, if her clothes do not impede access to her breasts. The fabric will reliably cover the most secret things from prying eyes. Before choosing a sling for your child, think about whether this function will be relevant to you.
What do the doctors say?
Prevention of hip dysplasia, excellent support for a weak little back, the soothing sound of a mother’s heart, a familiar smell and accessibility breast milk- the role of all of the above is difficult to overestimate. Pediatricians all over the world highly recommend this baby carrier. Doctors answer questions from pregnant women about how to choose a sling with great pleasure. In many large cities, support centers for babywearing and breastfeeding, where experienced consultants work with young mothers. Of course, with their help you can easily choose the most suitable option. However, if this is not possible, you will have to figure out all the intricacies yourself.
Doctors for adults also agree with pediatricians. All mothers know that carrying and giving birth to a healthy child is not an easy task. And sometimes you have to pay for your happiness with joint problems and exacerbation of many chronic diseases. Many young mothers often complain of pain in the lower back and back. Therefore, surgeons joyfully welcome the fashion for babywearing. The fact is that the fabric evenly distributes the load between the shoulders, back, lower back and hips. Each of these parts carries very little weight. This is indescribably better than just carrying the baby in your arms. Surgeons believe that if you choose correct sling, you can get rid of many diseases of the musculoskeletal system without any medications.
About how not to...
Many young parents managed to find out about what is available for newborns. How to choose the best one? Unfortunately, incompetent advice and flashy advertising sometimes play a cruel joke on us. Even in reputable children's magazines and in the best baby goods stores we often see things that children should absolutely not wear. The main signs of an incorrect sling:
- Availability of lining and foam inserts.
- Fabric with perpendicular arrangement of grain and weft threads.
- Synthetic materials.
- Rings made of bent wire.
- Stretchable knitwear, knitted fabric.
Why is this all wrong and harmful? The answers are simple. Cast rings will withstand quite an impressive weight, but open rings can be damaged and the baby will simply slip out. Foam pillows float, but they simply have no practical use. Well, if you sew a sling from fabric that is not suitable for this purpose, then it simply will not be able to perform its functions.
We should also talk about kangaroos. This is probably the worst thing you can do for a child. He is in a position that is abnormal for his physiology; he is uncomfortable and sometimes scared. The baby seems to be hanging by his panties. Yes, and there is an exorbitant burden on parents’ shoulders. Research on this topic has been carried out for more than one year, which makes it all the more surprising that such carriers are among the range of the best manufacturers of children's goods, such as Chicco, Mazerkea, Aprika and many others. Well, gullible users are tempted by the tempting word ERGO, which is written on the packaging of a completely non-ergonomic kangaroo backpack. Should you believe the advertising? Perhaps it is better to abandon the idea of such dubious accessories and think about how to choose the right sling.
How is sling fabric woven?
The most popular material for a sling is fabric with a diagonal weave, somewhat similar in structure to denim. Its fibers are twisted, smooth, and freely sliding. This allows the fabric to stretch slightly to conform to the body shape of the wearer and passenger. Thanks to this feature, the folds of the sling do not press, do not leave marks on the skin, and do not squeeze the limbs.
The composition of the canvas varies greatly. It is difficult to list everything that is on today's market. But those who don’t know which sling to choose should pay attention to the fact that the fabric contains a variety of additives. They give the sling special qualities:
- Cotton. The most common material, suitable for any season.
- Bamboo is a breathable, cool material. Ideal for a “truck” in which a heavy passenger rides.
- Linen is an excellent weight-lifting fabric that is pleasant to wear even in summer.
- Silk is a very beautiful material, cool to the touch. Suitable for light weight babies.
- Wool is a soft fabric, great for winter, but has little load-bearing capacity.
Of course, this is not all. If you try hard, you can find super durable material with nettle and even hemp fibers. Knitted slings are very popular. But they are only suitable for babies in the first weeks of life. Yes, and carrying a child in knitwear requires experience. It is usually purchased by mothers who have had their second or third baby.
Sling scarf
This is perhaps the most common type. It is a piece of fabric 5-7 meters long, 50 to 80 cm wide. Some manufacturers make non-standard scarves. But this can most likely be explained not by practical benefits, but by the desire to stand out.
A scarf can be worn in many ways. If you decide to learn, you will definitely have to remember the following terms: KNK, KPK, KNS. Don't worry, once you know what they mean, you'll understand everything. These are just the names of the most popular windings: “cross on pocket”, “cross under pocket” and “cross on back”. The first two can be used from the very birth of the baby. And change to your back better than months at 7, when the baby will be more interested in looking around on a walk than dozing on his mother’s chest.
How to choose a sling scarf? Trust well-known manufacturers, pay attention to the seams, and carefully inspect the fabric for ties and stains. External defects do not affect the performance characteristics, but it is advisable to detect them before purchase, and not after it.
With rings
For those who don’t like to bother with windings, this option is perfect. You can put a newborn in it and seat a six-month-old baby. But carrying a one-year-old baby is unlikely to be comfortable.
Before choosing a sling with rings, remember that a high-quality and comfortable one does not have any foam inserts. It is a piece of fabric measuring from 2.5 to 3.5 meters, two rings are sewn to one end of it. Pay attention to the quality of the seam and the fact that the rings must be large and cast. It is enough to thread the free tail into one of them, bend it and release it from the second, and the job is done. Of course, it is worth considering that when using a sling with rings, the entire load will fall on the back and one shoulder. Before purchasing, consider whether this option suits you.
For confident riders: May-sling and ergo-backpack
When the baby is 6 months old, you can start wearing him in a sling or ergonomic backpack. Do not confuse this wonderful carrier with a kangaroo! They are made completely differently. In a backpack or backpack, the baby is pulled to the parent's body, his butt is pushed in, as if in a hammock, there is no load on the spine and pelvis. These carriers are safe to carry.
They are very similar to each other. Only the backpack is held on by straps with fastex, and the May-sling is held on by ties made of sling fabric with weaving at an angle. Choosing a sling backpack is not so easy. Remember the main rules:
- Hard back - main feature bad backpack.
- It is advisable to give preference natural fabric.
- Be sure to pay attention to fastex. They must be strong.
- A wide belt is the key to comfortable and long wearing.
A few words about “shorties”
Above we looked at the three most popular and common types of correct baby carriers. And we understood how to choose the right sling for a newborn. But there are so many interesting things in the world! Many parents who appreciated all the advantages of this accessory are so sorry to part with their colorful pets...
There's no need to rush at all! For example, a kanga can be a great help even for those parents whose baby is 2-2.5 years old, and sometimes more. This is a small sling scarf, two of its ends are tied on the shoulder, and the other two on the hip. Such a carrier is not at all a find of civilization; it was used by many ancient peoples. And some tribes living in remote areas of South America and Asia still carry babies in cangas today.
Another popular shorty is the rebozo. This is a subtype of scarf, only its length is quite small - 2.5-3.5 meters. It can also be wound in a variety of different ways. different ways. It is believed that you can carry a baby in a rebozo from birth, but such a sling is most popular among parents of older children who already confidently sit, run, and climb into mother’s arms only for a little rest. This raises the question of how to choose the size of the scarf sling. The best way to find the answer is by trying on different accessories. If you don't have this option, try making different windings with a piece of regular fabric. It's not scary if it is sewn from several pieces. Although, of course, the most effective way will be to try on branded scarves.
Manufacturers
There are a wide variety of baby slings on the market today. How to choose something that will satisfy all your requirements? It would be useful to familiarize yourself with the products of the most famous manufacturers. The following table will help you navigate before choosing a sling.
Name | Country of origin b | Price segment | Features of the drawing, performance characteristics |
"Elleville" | Norway | Jacquard, load capacity, wide selection of patterns |
|
"Hoppeditz" | Germany | average, expensive | Average load capacity, classic patterns, limits |
"Didimos" | Germany | average, expensive | One of the first. Unusual patterns, load capacity, excellent quality |
"Girasol" | Germany | One of the best. Bright high-quality colors, stripes, unusual patterns, a huge selection of designs |
|
"Lennylamb" | budget | Variety of fabric patterns, high wear resistance |
|
Very beautiful high quality scarves |
|||
"Bebilonia" | Ideal for a first scarf, beautiful design, good quality |
Special slings
Some manufacturers produce unique collections of such accessories. It is unlikely that they will interest a young mother who is just wondering how to choose a sling. But those who are in the know understand perfectly well how you can pay $1000, or even more, for a strip of fabric. The thing is that series with stunning designs are produced in limited editions. These are the so-called limits.
But it also happens differently. A striking example of this is the Pamir sling from famous manufacturer"Vatanai." They are made by hand by a grandmother somewhere in the wilderness of the Balkans. Due to her age and unprecedented care, the craftswoman manages to create only 3-4 slings a year. That's why there are few of them. Consequently, the price of one of them can reach several thousand euros.
This particular scarf is shown in the photo above. Perhaps it's really worth the money. Or maybe this whole story is nothing more than clever marketing.
Accessories in style
For many mothers, the problem is not only which sling to choose, but also what to wear it with. Therefore, sling bags, backpacks and many other accessories, sewn from the same fabric as the carrier itself, or knitted from matching yarn, are quite popular.
Do you want to create an unforgettable and vibrant image? Accessorize the scarf with mittens, earrings, and shoes. And you can try on leg warmers or knitted beret the same color as the scarf. For the cold season, a special sling jacket can be an excellent choice. It differs from ordinary clothing in that it has a special insert that covers the baby. The most profitable option is to purchase such a jacket during pregnancy. After all, a growing tummy will also fit perfectly into it.
The stars are also in the subject
For several years, singer Natalya O’Shea became the face of the Elleville company. Her cheerful, stylish images with her daughter Nina in a sling inspire mothers all over the world. The baby is already quite big and has long been able to move independently, but Natalya continues to share her experience with young mothers. She is happy to give advice on how to choose a sling for a baby.
Semyon, who was born a special child, also spent the first months of his life in a bright striped sling. Anfisa Chekhova and Maria Kozhevnikova are also fans of the accessory. Foreign celebrities are also partial to him: Brad Pitt and his wife Angelina Jolly, Julia Roberts, Gwen Stefani and many others.
Babywearing community
Active people who love traveling devote time to their hobbies. They do not slow down even after the birth of their babies, often choosing a sling. If you decide to follow their example, be sure to meet baby carriers who live in your city. Many of them hold regular meetings to communicate and exchange experiences. Those who have already received enough practice help beginners get comfortable. They can help you wind the sling, choose the size, and decide on its quality and design.
Well, if there is no such club in your locality yet, perhaps you will be at its origins? After all, babywearing is not without reason called a contagious disease, which does not leave anyone indifferent who has ever tried to take a walk, carrying their precious child in a cozy scarf.
