Babywearing - your best bet

by Lindsay Ross

More parents are choosing to wear their babies, and for good reasons. They know it won’t spoil them - studies show the more a baby is carried in the first few months, the less he will cry later on. Carrying your baby is good for you and your baby, physically, emotionally, socially and for convenience reasons.

Here's the lowdown on five basic carriers and the pros and cons of each type:

Pouch slings

One of the most common types, they appear to be the easiest to use. There are, however, tricks to proper positioning (ie. diagonal, not parallel to the fold; baby’s chin should never be to their chest) and finding the right fit.

Pros:

• folds up small
• quick in and out
• good for newborn to toddler

Cons:

• some brands are too shallow for newborns
• offers two main positions (cradle and hip) - not as versatile
• sits on one shoulder, which is inappropriate for some users with back problems
• tricky for breastfeeding

Ring slings

Ring slings offer the advantages of the pouch with more versatility and a slightly steeper learning curve.

Pros:

• can be shared between users of different sizes
• allows for 5+ positions: cradled, prone, forward-facing, tummy-to-tummy and hip
• many have a pocket in the tail
• quick in and out; folds up small
• good for newborn to toddler

Cons:

• user must learn how to adjust
• sits on one shoulder, which is inappropriate for some users with back problems

Asian-style carriers

Includes the most common Asian-style carrier, the mei tai. These front and back carriers are versatile, comfortable and easy to use and are quickly increasing in popularity.

Pros:

• sits on two shoulders and hips for proper ergonomics
• easy to use
• works as a front and back carrier
• good for newborn to pre-schooler
• dads love them

Con:

• doesn’t offer a cradle position

Soft-structured carriers (SSCs)

Includes popular front packs as well as ergonomically-correct front and back carriers with buckles (ex. Beco and Ergo). Take care when considering this category of carriers; chiropractors recommend baby’s knees be positioned at or above their bum level for proper hip and back development and not all SSCs meet this requirement. For your comfort, a waist belt provides the best weight distribution, placing the weight on your hips and legs like a hiking backpack. For the best value, buy a carrier that works on the front and back to at least 40 pounds.

*Specifically regarding ergonomically-correct, front- and back-carriers:

Pros:

• good for newborn to pre-schooler
• very comfortable
• sits on two shoulders and places weight in hips for proper ergonomics
• works as a front, back and sometimes hip carrier
• dads love them

Cons:

• some do not offer a cradle position
• bulky in a diaper bag

Wraps

The most versatile, wraps are also the most intimidating. With some determination, parents often find the wrap to be their favourite carrier. It’s important to distinguish between stretchy and woven wraps. Stretchy wraps are found in most baby stores and are perfect for newborns but, contrary to labelling, are only appropriate for babies between 15 and 20 pounds. Woven wraps are not as forgiving for beginners, but offer the support and comfort needed for long-term use.

Stretchy wrap pros:

• snuggly
• relatively easy to learn for babies birth to 15-20 lbs
• offer a wide variety of positions
• ergonomically correct
• affordable
• perfect for Kangaroo Care and bonding

Cons:

• only useable for a few months
• not appropriate for back carries
• require learning how to use properly

Woven wrap pros:

• extremely versatile - can mimic nearly any carrier or position
• perfect for any age
• best choice for wearers with back problems
• ergonomically correct
• perfect for Kangaroo Care and bonding

Cons:

• higher price point
• steep learning curve

Lindsay Ross is part owner of Calgary baby store Babes in Arms, which specializes in slings and cloth diapers. Her mission is to help parents get the best value for their dollar and use the products they buy. To accomplish this, the owners and staff of Babes in Arms offer their expertise to customers who have bought their slings and diapers in the store as well as elsewhere. They also offer classes, rental and trial programs, consignment and an accommodating return policy. www.babesinarms.ca

Editor's note: next issue we'll review some of our favourite brands of baby carriers.

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