Baby Slings - Are They Worth The Money?
Having had children of my own I have experienced a lot of equipment and accessories intended to make caring for babies just a little easier. If I had to do it all over again and was told I could only have one piece of baby equipment, without hesitation, I would choose a baby sling.
On the market today there are many types and makes of baby front carrier available all with slightly different features. Graco and Baby Bjorn are two of the more favourite brands. These carriers have two padded shoulder straps that go over your shoulders and then cross over behind you. The straps can adapt to accommodate many different sizes and shapes so should fit most people. The baby is then slipped into a supporting pouch with leg holes and ends up facing you.
As the baby grows and gets bigger, many carriers will adapt and let the baby face outward. The problem with the front carrier was that it appeared awkward and clumsy to me. If the baby fell asleep while in the carrier, it was difficult to gently remove her to lay her down in a crib.
Also, because the baby was in the front, she was in the way both physically and visually, making the accomplishments of such tasks as sewing, meal preparation, cleaning, caring for older children, et cetera more difficult.
After struggling with with my first child I was finally introduced to … cue up the Halleluah chorus … A BABY SLING!!! There are several kinds; my preferred sling style was a long piece of fabric that fed through two metal fastening rings, leaving a “tail” of fabric.
If I had to choose my favourite baby sling it would have to be the Maya Wrap which has a pocket sewn into the tail. This tail can be used to carry spare diapers, keys or purse. This style of carrier enabled me to carry baby high or low, on my side, front or back in fact in almost any position. It was also possible to discreetly breastfeed with the baby still in the carrier and by using the tail piece as a shield no one could see anything.
As you can see, I am a bit biased toward slings, but the other hands free baby carriers might be absolutely perfect for your needs. Look at all options and try a few out. Whichever you choose, you will be a happier, more productive new parent as you learn to incorporate the joy of nurturing your newborn with the other long list of tasks that you have.