Baby Carrier and Sling Info

[Natrat80]

Sevilla I love it! I'm right handed and I normally hold Addie on my right hip, but Nancy had one made up already in the fabric I wanted for the left hip so I got that. I plan to use it at the grocery store and thought it made since for me to have my right hand free to get out cash, etc. I was afraid holding her on my left would be too weird, but it's actually been great!

Yes, it's easy to use in a parking lot. :p It takes me about a minute to put on, just because I've only used it for a week or two, but I'm getting faster! So far I've used it at home, at the post office, at church when Addie was sick and she couldn't go in the nursery, and at a football game. Addie weighs 20lbs and I think the hip carrier really helps to distribute her weight and it is much more comfortable than just holding her would be. Let me know if you have any more questions! I'll try to take a picture sometime this week to share with everyone!

[Sevilla]

Thanks for the feedback! I think i'll try wearing DS on my left hip in the ring sling for a few days and if i don't notice any problems then i'll get it made for that side.

Here's the link to the hip carrier page - you can't get to it directly from her site:
http://www.rosiebaby.com/hipcarrier.htm

[Scooter]

Sevilla, thanks for the rec & the link. :)

[aprilshowers]

Scooter, not sure how others feel about slings for older/heavier babies but I just wanted to warn you that the sling started to kill my back after DD started getting bigger. I actually just bought a MT to replace it! So you may want to try one out before going through the effort of making one.

[nuhmah]

I just finished making my first MT!! I LOVE it! I used the rounded part of my Kozy to get the top, but the rest is all my design. :) The finished body is 16 1/2 x 20 - my Kozy is 22 x 17.

http://jamieandjen.com/Gallery1/albums/album32/carrier.sized.jpg

It is made of corduroy, and the panel is made of thick home decor fabric

[aprilshowers]

That is beautiful Jennifer! I am so jealous of you ladies who know how to sew!!

[jh124]

Posting another endorsement of Nancy's rosiebaby.com hip carrier. I use mine everyday and love it! I'm also a lefty, and it wasn't a problem getting one made for my right hip. I even got to select my own fabric!:D

[jewamese]

Hey, those who have ordered from Nancy's rosiebaby--
How long did it take for you to recieve your mei hip? I've contacted her yesterday and today, but have not gotten a reply. Is this normal? How long did it take for you girls to get a reply? I am trying to get one for my friend who is going on vacation next Wednesday and hoping that she'll be able to make & ship before next Tuesday.
TIA

[Natrat80]

jewamese Nancy got back to me within 24 hours. She should be able to whip up a carrier for you with an instock fabric pretty quickly. I'd wait and see if she replies today-who knows-she may be on vacation or something!

[nuhmah]

That is beautiful Jennifer! I am so jealous of you ladies who know how to sew!!

Thank you! My next project is one for DH who wants me to make him one out of an old t-shirt. He wants a waist buckle (instead of straps, like a beco), and a sweatshirt pocket on the front. :)

[ellidew]

I just ordered a micro fleece peanut shell. I was wondering how long people typically use these and if the micro fleece is a lightweight as the website leads you to believe in FAQ's. I'm mostly worried about the awful humidity in the midwest. I'm due in November. I don't think this will be as much of a problem come next summer with ds1 but there is no way to know when dc2 or even 3 will arrive. Is the cotten stretch more versatile with the seasons? Which one is more comfortable for mom?

You'd think i would've thought to consider this prior to ordering but nope... just hit the submit order button without a second thought. I can still change my order if i make a decision rather quickly. I can always stick with the fleece and if it doesn't work seasonally for other dc's just order another one then or even order a regular cotton stretch one in the spring ;)

Any advice is great! Thanks!

[Wrighty26]

ellidew - I have a fleece hotsling and DS prefers it over the stretch cotton and we live in the land of humidity! That said, I usually don't go outside wearing that particular hotsling-- only in the house/anywhere that's air conditioned. If I am wearing him outside, it's usually in the mei tai anyway.

Hope that helps!

[DallasLady]

I just wanted to chime in and say that I bought a Hotsling and I love it! My 3 day old daughter is snuggled in it right now as I type. She doesn't like pacifiers, and this sling is the only that that settles when she is restless. I love it!

BTW: For those contemplating sizes, I ordered a size 5 and I am a size 16-18/XL. It seems to fit very well.

[Aletheia]

I love the idea of wearing my baby, but I feel somehow nervous and guilty putting him in any of the 5 (!) different carriers I accumulated before his birth.

How can I be sure he is comfy? Will he really let me know? How has your baby told you he doesn't like a certain carrier?

How long do you typically wear your baby at a stretch?

I think in part I'm just in shock about how much easier my day-to-day life could be if I could reassure myself that he is as content about being in his pouch as I hope he is!

[Wrighty26]

How can I be sure he is comfy? Will he really let me know? How has your baby told you he doesn't like a certain carrier?

Oh, he'll let you know :) Now that my DS is a little older and really into looking around his surroundings he is not a big fan of being in any position where he can't see outward when he is awake. When he's sleepy, I can pretty much put him in any position and he will just fall asleep.

I definitely wouldn't feel guilty for wearing him though-- it's very likely that he enjoys being so close to you (especially if he's not complaining). Actually I can always count on my DS calming down if he's fussy when I put him in one of his slings/carriers. I think it's because he likes that one-on-one contact and listening to my heartbeat :)

ETA - As far as time length -I've gone as long as wearing him for 2-3 hours (while he was sleeping).

[emmjay]

How can I be sure he is comfy? Will he really let me know? How has your baby told you he doesn't like a certain carrier?

How long do you typically wear your baby at a stretch?

My baby (8 weeks old) SCREAMS if he is in the hotsling for more than 2 minutes. Unfortunately for me, I love that sling because it is so comfortable for my back! If he is in the Kozy carrier (also comfy for me) he goes right to sleep or just looks around at everything. Yesterday in Starbucks I thought he was asleep but then I glanced down and he was grinning up at me. So I know he likes that one! He likes the Bjorn too but not as much as the Kozy - he gets restless faster in the Bjorn. Maybe because his legs are exposed.

I wear my baby when I do my grocery shopping, at the mall, or just running errands. I keep the Kozy in the bottom of the stroller so I can wear him if he starts to get fussy when we're on a walk. Probably the longest I've worn him has been for an hour but I'm sure I could have him in there for much longer if he is fed and wearing a dry diaper.

[EJM]

My DD hated MTs from 3-6 months of age, I mean she would literally scream bloody murder but would sit/lay in a pouch for a while. Now she'll sit in any type of carrier, alot of which has to do with my increased experience in using it. I can pop her in and go and need less adjustment which is what bothered her before. She's also 11 months and any hold I use with her, she can see around -- she loves to observe the world around her.

I've worn her probably up to 3 hours. When she was tiny sometimes it was the only way she would nap. We've been to a lot of things outside this summer, and she is worn for those. I haven't heard too many complaints from her. ;)

[nuhmah]

I wear DS for close to 6-8 hours a day - it depends on what we are doing. When he is fussy and I just can't sit there and hold him while he sleeps, he goes into the MT. If we are running errands or doing something that I can do one handed he goes into the Hotsling. I wear him in the MT when doing something like grocery shopping because I want both hands and shoulders free.

Fleece/Cotton - I got both in a HS and he much prefers the fleece one - even in the summer. I used the cotton one at first, but he doesn't seem to like it as much as the fleece. I dress him lightly when he is in that one for a while because it does get warm, but we keep each other cozy. :) I also don't carry him in a cradle any more with it unless he is sleepy when we are out. He goes in sitting straight up and his butt in the bottom (but still froggy legged), and leans his head up against my chest. He tends to fall asleep that way, and then I just gently slide him down in the sling tummy to tummy and his head facing me.

[jennylou]

Okay, I've been reading along. :) I have a sling from BRU. It's okay, but a bit warm. DD loves it - for about an hour, and then she gets fussy...I think b/c she's too warm. We have two snugglis (don't ask how I have two, I found both in the closet when I started getting things out). I tried the one. It's awkward with all those straps and clips for me b/c DD is on a monitor and has wires.

I've been looking at the RosieBabie Meitei and I really the style (and the fabrics!). So, a few questions:
1) Is it one size fits all? I'm plus size, so I want to make sure the straps are long enough before ordering.
2) How does the fabric breathe? I know winter is approaching, but I'd like to wear this for a while, transitioning to side and back carry, so it needs to be good for all seasons.
3) We are planning a cruise in February in the western Caribean. It will be warm, but I'd love to sling DD (who will be six months at the time). Will it be too warm? Will I have to lug my stroller too?

[Sevilla]

Jenny: A MT is great for back and front carrying - we used our Rosiebaby MT from when DS was 2 months old and both DH and I like it. The straps area an awesome length for a wide range of sizes, but if you think you'll need longer i'm sure Nancy would make it that way for you. I don't think just a MT will be enough though - it takes a bit longer to put on/take off so you tend to use it for longer periods of carrying. For shorter trips either a pouch or ring sling (i think a ring sling is better) will serve you well and will be much better for the hip carry and for nursing too. Ring slings that are very well-liked are www.sleepingbaby.net, www.mayawrap.com (the lightly padded shoulder - and it comes in solid colors if you don't like the prints), and www.zolowear.com (this is the one i have that i use daily, i love it).

[Wrighty26]

We are planning a cruise in February in the western Caribean. It will be warm, but I'd love to sling DD (who will be six months at the time). Will it be too warm? Will I have to lug my stroller too?


I live in Orlando where it is still in the upper 90s during the day-- and I put my DS in his Kozy MT all the time. He loves it-- and I think it's actually cooler than when he is sitting in his carseat/stroller. I don't know about the fabric from RosyBaby - but the Kozy fabric I have is 100% medium weight canvas and it actually breathes really well!

I would bring a lightweight umbrella stroller with you on your cruise too--but I just like having options!

[moderngal]

I just ordered a micro fleece peanut shell. I was wondering how long people typically use these and if the micro fleece is a lightweight as the website leads you to believe in FAQ's. I'm mostly worried about the awful humidity in the midwest. I'm due in November. I don't think this will be as much of a problem come next summer with ds1 but there is no way to know when dc2 or even 3 will arrive. Is the cotten stretch more versatile with the seasons? Which one is more comfortable for mom?

I have 2 peanut shells- one microfleece and one cotton. I tend to use the cotton one more because it's a funky pattern. :) But the microfleece is great- I think the fabric is great and very good for someone new to babywearing. I haven't had an issue with it being too hot, but honestly I would call it a 3 season sling. For summer, I would go with a cotton or solarveil one if it's really humid where you are. So, IMO- get get both. You can't really have too many. ;)

[jennylou]

Okay, so I decided I wanted to try out a MT, so I made some with some scraps I had from a duvet I'm sewing. It's cute. :) I took pictures, but I'm wearing a pair of scorpion pj pants and a man's tank under shirt. ;) I shared with my sis, but that might be about it for now. I'll take another pic when I'm dressed for real.

[Wrighty26]

I took pictures, but I'm wearing a pair of scorpion pj pants and a man's tank under shirt. I shared with my sis, but that might be about it for now. I'll take another pic when I'm dressed for real.


LOL...completely understand :) Does your DD like it?

[jennylou]

I'm not entirely sure yet, she had just woken up and wanted fed, stat, instead, I made her wait. Let's just say, she wasn't entirely pleased by the experience...she was pawing at my shirt trying to figure out how to get to the food since she was so close. ;)

[Sevilla]

Here's a link to enter a contest for a free Babyhawk Mei Tai, it ends Friday and you just have to send an email listing your favorite pattern on their website :).

http://www.alongfortheride.biz/pages/PlayGamesWinPrizes.php

[mel7dog]

Here's a link to enter a contest for a free Babyhawk Mei Tai, it ends Friday and you just have to send an email listing your favorite pattern on their website :).

http://www.alongfortheride.biz/pages/PlayGamesWinPrizes.php

Are you wanting to try a BH now because I am ;)

[mel7dog]

I've decided to sell my Kozy as it is just not wokring for use and buy a new BabyHawk w/headrest. So if anyone sees or hears of a BH sale or knows of a discount code PLEASE PLEASE PM me or post it here!!! :D I don't have nearly as much time as I once did to visit various boards and I'm afraid I'll miss a sale!

[Sevilla]

Mel: Tee hee ;). If i see any BH sales and such i'll let you know. Is there a specific pattern/strap color you want (in case i see one come up for sale?). And are you on the Babywearing_Sale community on LJ too?

[mel7dog]

Not s specific pattern I want, but I am pretty picky :o So I'll most likely just order mine new. I am off to find out how to join the community on LJ!

[Kate&Joey]

I just wanted to give some positive feedback on my Rosie Baby Hip Carrier. Nancy was wonderful; responsive and very quick with my order. I highly recommend using her!

I really like her design of the hip carrier...with the buckles, it's easy to get on and off. DS is almost 9 months old. He generally wants to be "on the move" but when he gets fussy late in the day and just wants to be held, the hip carrier has been great!

K

[bluhimmy]

In case anyone is interested in a ring sling or pouch...

Zolowear's is celebrating their 5th anniversary with a 15% off and free shipping through 10/15/06. The discount code is: "five."

http://www.zolowear.com

[maybebaby]

Here's my question:

I have a Moby Wrap. I don't know if I'm just not good at wrapping it but it never feels secure to me. I always end up walking around with my hands holding it to make sure the baby doesn't fall out. I went back to the local store where I bought it and had them give me another lesson, but I still find it a bit complicated and end up mostly using it around the house when I'm less nervous.

I have a Baby Bjorn which I use a lot but sometimes it hurts my back after awhile. I like how easy it is to put the baby into, but I find it annoying to sit down while wearing the Bjorn. I'd like to be able to sit on the couch with the baby in a sling.

Would I be better off with a pouch sling? I'd like something really easy...I think I'm just too tired these days to deal with all the wrapping of the Moby. My baby girl is 3 months old and bonus points for any sling that I can use for awhile without her outgrowing it...

Any suggestions?

[Sevilla]

Wraps are the most complicated of all baby carriers, so i imagine that starting with one would make it hard to use it easily (and they take longer to put on anyway). Plus, stretchy wraps like the Moby are only good for newborns - once the babies weight a bit more the stretchiness is a liability and they don't stay in as tight. If you want to continue wrapping i would look into woven wraps and would go to www.thebabywearer.com forums b/c there are awesome videos and people willing to help with wrapping. www.peppermint.com also has good instructions for how to wrap with photos, though their kangaroo carry/rucksack photos aren't so good.

I would recommend trying either a pouch (a fleece pouch would be great for winter - www.kangarookorner.com, www.hotslings.com, www.peanutshell.com) or a ring sling (i love my zolo from www.zolowear.com, and www.sleepingbaby.net makes good ones too). Once my zolo is adjusted correctly i don't have to retighten it each time - i just put it on and pop my DS in and out as necessary. It is very easy - though ring slings do have a learning curve.

If you want to carry your baby on your back at all I really recommend a Mei Tai - they are awesome! You do have to tie it on, but it is much easier than a wrap. www.babyhawk.com, www.kozycarrier.com, www.rosiebaby.com, and www.attachedtobaby.com all sell them.

And don't feel badly that the Bjorn hurts your back - it was always uncomfortable for me too when I would use them while babysitting in college. But the carriers I have now are very comfy.

[jennylou]

maybebaby - I find the mei tei easier to use than a snuggli (which I assume has a similiar type of set up as the bjorn).

[maybebaby]

Thanks Sevilla and Jennylou! When I bought the Moby when my daughter was about three weeks old, the salegirl convinced me it was better than a Hotsling because the sizes are more important with the pouch slings and you're losing postpartum weight...but now I think maybe I should try a pouch sling. It might just be the sleep deprivation, but somehow the instructions for the Moby are just too much when you've got a fussy kid.

[Sevilla]

FWIW I gained 35-40 lbs when pg and lost it all in the first 8 weeks pp and my Hotsling fit me great the whole time :shrugs:. I definitely don't like my hotsling (stretch cotton) now that DS is bigger - it's not as comfortable and ceased being as user-friendly once he was 4ish months. BUT - the fleece ones are more comfortable to be used longer.

[mkvh]

Speaking of hotslings, what's the secret to the forward-facing position? My DD love the sling using the infant carry, but now that she's 3 months old, has head control, and wants to see the world, I cannot get her comfortable in the pouch. Any tips?

Or do I just need to upgrade to a mei tai?? ;)

[Cosmogirl]

And are you on the Babywearing_Sale community on LJ too?
For some reason, I cannot find it?:confused: Is there something I do wrong?

[mrstim]

Cosmo - it's babywearer_sale. :) I had to search and search too!!

[Cosmogirl]

Cosmo - it's babywearer_sale. :) I had to search and search too!!
do you find this in the "community" and then "search for communities"??
I'm still not finding it lol:rolleyes:
There must be another way that I'm not thinking of...

[Sevilla]

I personally didn't find forward-facing in the hotsling comfortable for me for very long, though DS was happy in it. The secret is folding the baby up as if they were breech in the womb - butt down, legs pointing up near their shoulders. Then lower the baby into the sling butt-first and pull the front fabric up oer their legs. They will be squished but should be comfortable (if they protest then they're not comfy, but my DS was happy like this at that age). I think that it is easier/comfier to do this in a ring sling, and a mei tai is easiest of all - especially if it has an adjustable bottom so their legs can hang out (like a Mei Tai Baby adjustable). HTH!

[Sevilla]

http://community.livejournal.com/babywearer_sale/profile

[EJM]

mkvh: My DD was pretty small and I could only do the pouch forward facing for very limited amounts of time. I bought a CatBird Baby MT this week, the body style it most closely resembles is a Freehand. There are 2 small loops on the bottom that allow it to be cinched and you can wear your DC facing out. Wearing instructions are not yet on the website for it, but I know she was taking photos of the forward facing last week -- so hopefully soon. I only mention it because Mei Tai Baby isn't taking new orders except sporadically. So far with the CatBird, I am loving it. DD is refusing to be worn for more than 10 minutes these days and this MT has kept her quiet for the longest time.

[SD601]

mkvh, Sevilla and EMJ have good tips. I wore my DS like for months, and even though he's almost 14 months, we still sometimes cuddle like this (he barely fits, though).

Edited to remove HUGE pic...

[Guinness]

Here is a good page on different carries you can do including kangaroo carry (facing forward) - Sling Instructions (http://www.heavenlybundle.com/wearing.html). This sling is just like the hotsling and there are some fun fabrics. I have seen people use this sling with 3 year olds for real. Usually hip carry, but at least it is a little easier than just carrying :p

[mkvh]

Thanks, ladies.

I think she just must not like it. She pushes against the fabric with her feet, trying to stretch out her legs. And she DEFINTELY protests. She's a big girl for her age (she was 13lb 11oz and 24in at 2 months!), so that could be part of it.

I'm going to have to break it to DH that we NEED at MT! Thanks for the rec, EJM!

[Wrighty26]

Thanks, ladies.

I think she just must not like it. She pushes against the fabric with her feet, trying to stretch out her legs. And she DEFINTELY protests. She's a big girl for her age (she was 13lb 11oz and 24in at 2 months!), so that could be part of it.

I'm going to have to break it to DH that we NEED at MT! Thanks for the rec, EJM!

B doesn't like being in his hotsling that way either-- he does the same thing. I'm hoping it becomes handy again when he's big enough for the hip carry. I really loved using it when he was tiny! He does love his MT though... I hope you can convince D!

[mrstim]

I didn't realize so many on here wore MT's!! :D I have one supposed to be delivered today - Mel7dog is letting me borrow her MTB to see if my son likes it, then I'll stalk ebay or another forum for a used one since she's not making many anymore!

Anyone want to post pictures of them wearing their DC in a MT???? I'd love to see them!

[Wrighty26]

I didn't realize so many on here wore MT's!! :D I have one supposed to be delivered today - Mel7dog is letting me borrow her MTB to see if my son likes it, then I'll stalk ebay or another forum for a used one since she's not making many anymore!

Anyone want to post pictures of them wearing their DC in a MT???? I'd love to see them!

If you go a few pages back there are a few pictures of us wearing them :)

[daisysue62]

Here's some pictures I took of myself wearing DD in the mei tai I made last spring:

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/meitaibackcarry2.jpg http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/meitaibackcarry.jpg http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d16/daisysue62/meitaiarmsout.jpg

[nuhmah]

Just made myself a new wrap with some fabric from JoAnne's

http://jamieandjen.com/Gallery1/albums/album34/Trip_Home_October_2006_001.sized.jpg

[LRL]

Nuhmah- cute fabric! Too bad my DS doesn't like being wrapped- I think he feels too confined. I need to learn how to back carry as I think he might like that better. How long did you make your wrap?

[Sevilla]

Very cute wrap fabric!

I wrap my DS in the back carry all the time - he loves to nap that way. I was really experienced at MT back carries before i got my wrap (a BB Slen Blueberry, it is awesome!) and i think that helped a lot with doing back carries. I prefer the BWCC (what the person above is doing except on my back. There is an awesome video on TheBabyWearer for how to do it that helped me a lot - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1RifEflbjk

I also can do the rucksack though i don't prefer it - when i do i pull fabric up between DS's legs before putting him on my back and do a twist over his back and under his legs with the tails and it's very secure.

[LRL]

Sevilla- My DS is almost 8 months old and getting very heavy (over 20 lbs!), so I need to start looking at something other than slings for carrying him longer. I have a plain gauze wrap, but it isn't as soft/pliable/breathable as I think it should be to make DS comfortable. Sometimes I look at wraps and just see a piece of expensive fabric. Does it make a big difference to have a BB Slen, etc? (BTW: It is beautiful IRL!!) I need to be able to justify the purchase!

BTW: Thanks for the link to the video. I haven't been in that section of the thebabywearer boards- I mostly stick to the sling areas and have only seen photo illustrations of how to back carry.

[nuhmah]

LRL - I made mine 5 yards long (I wish I had gone with 6 yards) and it is about 30" wide. I think it is too wide right now, and may narrow it, and as well as taper the ends.

It was really easy to make - you can do a wrap with un-sewn edeges, or with sewn edges. It takes a bit of time, but I finished off my edges by doing a zig-zag stitch (I don't have a serger), and then pressing over the seam. Then I went back through with a straight stitch all the way around. It took close to 45 minutes to do all that - and an entire spool of thread!

[Sevilla]

LRL: A gauze wrap will not be supportive enough for a baby your DS's age (as you've found out). I personally think that my wrap is worth it. I compare it to buying a nice stroller (since we just have an inexpensive stroller and rarely use it). Plus if you buy it on FSOT on TBW, if you decide it is *not* worth it or not what you want you can resell it and get almost all your $$ back. Since you are ready to move into 2-shouldered carries I would personally get a Mei Tai first. They are easier to use and very cute. I would not be able to wrap so easily if it weren't for my months of hardcore MT usage. Anyway, with a younger baby i don't think wrap material really matters since they're light. But once the baby is heavier a good woven material is important b/c of how it helps support the weight. I will have to measure my wrap when it gets done in the dryer - i'm not surehow wide it is. Length-wise it is a 4.75 which is too long and i'm going to shorten it to a 4.1 instead.

[Wrighty26]

Nuhmah - JJ is SOOO cute!

[nuhmah]

Awww... thanks, Wrighty. Is it funny that I think he is starting to look like a little "boy"? KWIM? Not just a baby, but a little boy! :)

[Adam's Pi]

Can anyone give me good suggestions for BF'ing in a hybrid sling/pouch or a Mei Tai? My DD is 3 weeks old right now, and all the websites start to look the same...can you give me some firsthand advice? TIA!

[LRL]

Sevilla- I forgot to thank you for the information! I am going to FSOT some carriers I am not using and look for the *perfect* wrap. For some reason, Mei Teis haven't appealed to me but perhaps someone has a tempting trade! Thanks! =)

[nuhmah]

Can anyone give me good suggestions for BF'ing in a hybrid sling/pouch or a Mei Tai? My DD is 3 weeks old right now, and all the websites start to look the same...can you give me some firsthand advice? TIA!

I never had success nursing in a pouch - but I went to a breastfeeding in a sling clinic at the conference this summer, and I was told that you should be nursing on the opposite side than you are wearing her on. Does that make sense?

So, say I was wearing the pouch over my left shoulder - normally his head would be on my left shoulder, and his feet by my right hip. I would turn him so his head is on my right side, and his feet are sticking out on the left. His butt would be supported by the sling, and the rails on the right side would support his head.

As for nursing in a MT - I have the most success when I stand to get latched. Snug your DD down inside a little bit and loosen the straps - I also find it helps to wear a nursing tank so you aren't as exposed. If you lean forward slightly, you can bring your hands in from the sides to latch her. I usually keep a hand behind DS's head to keep him supported while I walk.

Good luck!!!

[Aletheia]

Adam'sPi- I have been occasionally nursing in my kangaroo korner pouch, and while at first i thought ds had to be sooo uncomfortable, he hasn't complained, and has actually fallen asleep with my bb in his mouth. Here's a pic:
http://mstenger.photosite.com/~photos/tn/708_348.ts1160186313000.jpg

I didn't attempt this until ~5 weeks, when ovi had gotten so good at latching on that he could do it himself. in the pouch, i have to help him get his head in the right place, but the rest is up to him.

He's in the "tummy-to-tummy position as desc on the kk website. I hold him in burping position over the sling-covered shoulder, and cross his legs in front of him w/ the opposite hand, using that hand to help guide his cabooe down in the sling,

[nuhmah]

That is exactly what I was trying to describe! Thanks for the pic Aletheia!

[sake]

There is so much info. out there and I don't have much time to decipher it. I have a hotsling which DS seems to like, but it seems like it might be too tight (and may have bought wrong size). I'd like to get another sling that we can use for a while - DS is only 11 days old today. Can anyone recommend a simple to use ring sling and where to buy?
Thanks!

[shortcake]

Here's the situation - DD (age 3) is in a coop preschool. DS (age 5 months) comes along and rides in a Snugli Front and Back Pack (can be used in front or on my back).

I am thinking of switching coops because there is another one that offers more of what I want for DD, BUT I don't want to do that (and pay all the new sign up fees, etc) if DS is going to outgrow the carrying thing so soon that we'll have to quit coop. (I haven't figured out any kind of child care, so still trying to figure out what I would do with him if I can't bring him.) He is a heavy kid - over 18 lbs now. So that's issue #1. But even more important - will he be satisfied to ride on my back and watch the action for a while? I can't remember how long I had DD in the bjorn, and she was a very mellow child. He seems much more active! But preschool is only an hour and 45 minutes long. What do you think?

[emschwar]

You might ask about the carriers in the baby carrier thread in 0-18m.

But, as far as the co-oping goes, can't you trade babysitting with other co-op parents? That's what we do at our co-op. Kids up to 6 months old are allowed to come along on mom's co-oping day, but when they're older than that, they can't come. Other moms are more than willing to babysit though.

[magdesilver]

I'd look into getting a mei tai carrier. MUCH more comfy for me than the bjorn, and can be used on the front or back. That said, maybe there is another mom in the same situation as you who you might be able to trade days with so that while you work in the class, she watches your little one and vice-versa. It couldn't hurt to ask around the preschool and see if another momma is interested in doing a swap with you, especially for such a short period of time.

[Adam's Pi]

numah Thank you for the info. I can't seem to make my pouch work for my DD, so the mei tai info will come in handy.

alethia Thanks for the illustration : ) I tried it a few times, but DD just doesn't seem to like it.

[shortcake]

Thanks! I really thought I posted in the 0-18 months thread...maybe there was a glitch? Most likely a user-error-glitch though!

Thanks for your replies anyway, though!

Yes, swapping would be an option. Though in my current coop there isn't anyone who I'd be able to swap with. And switching to a new one mid-year I worry that all the moms would have their swaps set up.

Not to mention that it is HEAVENLY to be able to drop DD off and go run errands with just the baby for an hour and a half!!! :)

magdesilver -Thanks I'll look into the mei tai. I think that's the one that's always intimidated me, though! :)

[emschwar]

Did you mean to post this in the baby carrier thread? I can merge for you. Or move to 0-18m if that's what you meant to do. Although, if you're primarily interested in info about baby carriers, this needs to go in that thread.

[Sevilla]

Another rave for the Rosie Baby Hip Carrier by Nancy! I got mine today and it is great :). It's very comfortable and easy to use. David likes it. And I got it in a fabric with lots of fall colors so it goes with most shirts in my closet.

[mel7dog]

Sevilla - Oh you have to post pics! I am rather curious about these new hip carriers. Wasn't there a link somewhere? I am having trouble finding info

[jewamese]

I forgot to come back to post about the RosieBaby Mei Hip, too.

I bought one for my neighbor for her birthday. She used to be a total Bjorn'r and apprehensive about other baby carriers, but now, she is in LOVE with her RB mei-hip.

[Sevilla]

Here's the link - http://www.rosiebaby.com/hipcarrier.htm

I got fabric from Joann's that I gave to her to use and it turned out great with brown straps. Nancy has enough left for another carrier or two i think since it's on her site -
http://www.rosiebaby.com/circles%20on%20squares.jpg

(it reminds me of this pattern -
http://store.attachedtobaby.com/images/bw-er-mt-us_metro_x.jpg

[EJM]

I really need to get one of those soon.

I have a custom Kozy in the fabric Sevilla posted on natural straps, and despite not being much of a natural strap person I think it works really well together -- just in case someone is pondering another color strap option.

[SD601]

So the RB hip-carrier is just for the hip? No other positions? Is it faster/easier than a pouch or wrap? Looks very interesting...

I'll admit that I'm a baby carrier addict...I buy, sell, and trade on www.thebabywearer.com all the time. Fortunately, this means that I've tried MANY carriers.

Currently, I own 5 wraps (all in different sizes), a patapum, and two pouches. And I use them all the time. At one time I had two mei tais but I found as DS grew heavier, they couldn't support his weight as well. I've also had a bEco (www.ecobabies.com) which is a very cool combo of a MT and structured carrier.

Here's a pic of the beco vs. the patapum (which is a soft structured carrier that my DH uses, too):

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/inimeg81/09-01-06Download244.jpg

Here's my dad wearing my friend's DS (who's 2) in the patapum:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/inimeg81/09-30-06Download025.jpg

Here's DS in some of my wraps...I adore wraps because they are so versatile. It's like tying your shoe--difficult to learn at first, but then becomes second nature.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/inimeg81/09-01-06Download202-1.jpg http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/inimeg81/09-30-06Download079-2.jpg

Finally, here's Dh using the pouch while cleaning. DS was about 4-5 months, here, I think.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/inimeg81/IMG_0038.jpg

Just wanted to share the babywearing love!

[Sevilla]

Oooh, a beco!!! That is on my 'wish list' for my birthday (DS will be 11 mos old, so i figure that will be a great age for one). I'm glad to hear you like it! Which wraps do you have and in what sizes?

[LRL]

Sake- I've tried a ton of different styles of ring slings. I keep coming back to Zolos though. You can find them here: www.zolowear.com

You will find that many people have shoulder preferences for their ring slings. There is no good way of knowing what your personal preference is without trying it.

[Sevilla]

Sake - I like Zolowear ring slings too and found them great to use with a young baby. They come wtih a DVD showing you how to use it which is nice. A pouch is easier to learn though, and with a newborn they are great. I have a microfleece Peanut Shell pouch that i *love* and I would recommend that to you - it is so cozy for a newborn and nice and stretchy for an older baby too. www.goo-ga.com (you might want to consider getting the right size hotsling first though - pouches are the 'training wheels' of baby carriers so learning to use one well makes learning other carriers, like a ring sling, easier :)).

SD601 - Right, it is just for your hip. For an older baby it is much nicer than a pouch or ring sling b/c you get weight distributed along both the waist and back/shoulder. It's like a clip-on Hip-Cross-Carry (if that makes sense). It is nice not having to pull anything over your head or pull baby through a sling so it's fast and easy. If I had to choose just one carrier to own I would get something more versatile like a Ring Sling or Mei Tai. But a hip carrier is an awesome addition to a sling wardrobe b/c with older kids you use the hip carry so often, and it allows for rapid 'up/down/up/down' that toddlers are so fond of ;).

[SD601]

Hmmmm...interesting info...thanks, Sevilla!

Wraps...well, I have
4.7 indio Mineral (my sleep/sick/cuddle wrap)
4.6 Easycare #4 (workhorse, hiking/exercising wrap)
4.1 polkka girasol (my feeling pretty, out and about colorful wrap)
3.6 heina girasol (emergency, always in the car, quick rucksack wrap)
2.7 ER rebozo (no diaper bag but will fit in purse wrap)

And I think I'm complete, really. I love them all and really do wear them all. DS has always been very high needs, so I wear him often for naps, errands, around the house. He's my cuddle bug and I love it! I'm actually becoming a babywearing leader through NINO.

~Laura

[dana b]

any rec's for a ring sling (besides zolo)? i really want a new ring sling. i was waiting to buy a soul baby nyc sling, but i've given up -- she's no longer making them. is anyone selling something similar? i already have a zolo and an oopa, i like the look of the rockin baby, but it always gets awful reviews. my only other option is to buy my own fabric and do a custom through sleeping baby.

[LRL]

Dana B- Have you looked at CXD baby slings? They are my second favorite! Their tails are not as long as oopa baby slings though.

[{b}]

I'm a newbie, with a newborn. I got a Kangaroo Korner AFP and I'm loving it. DH can't share, though, and he calls it a "contraption."

I'm looking for something more structured for him to try. Any recommendations that don't cost more than my first car?

Off to google "patapum" as that's one I've never heard of before!

[LRL]

{b}- I'm not the expert, but if you're looking at Patapums, you should also look at Becos and Ergos. They are the same concept. Your DH might also like a Mei Tei like a Babyhawk- you can have them made in masculine colors.

[{b}]

Can any of them be used with a newborn? The Patapum website said 5 months and up.

[Toonces]

I'm a newbie, with a newborn. I got a Kangaroo Korner AFP and I'm loving it. DH can't share, though, and he calls it a "contraption."
I'm looking for something more structured for him to try. Any recommendations that don't cost more than my first car?

I'd highly recommend the Ergo Carrier (http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/). It's very simple to use, easy on the shoulders, and you can buy an infant insert to support a newborns head. We have one for DD and bought another one for soon-to-be-born DS with the infant insert. It's sold on quite a few different web sites so you can search for decent prices. BTW, we also love the KKAFP!

[Candy]

I have a Patapum & highly recommend it. It is both a front & back carrier with belt support for your back.

DH has worn DD in it a handful of times & I used to wear DD in it very often. It's extremely comfortable and can be used for quite a long time.

http://store.attachedtobaby.com/detail.aspx?ID=105

Another similiar, more expensive carrier is the Ergo.

[Wrighty26]

{b} - I highly recommend a Mei Tai. I have a Kozy that I love and I'm looking to get a BabyHawk. My DH wears my Kozy and he said he's never had more people smile at him in his life! I've had the MT since my DS was about 8 weeks old and I wish I had it sooner. It can definitely be used with a newborn.

[Sevilla]

Dana - I have heard rave reviews of the *new* Maya Wrap (the 'lightly padded shoulder' style). www.mayawrap.com It comes in solid colors in addition to the Guatemalan fabrics.

B - You'll have to ask your DH if he would be open to a Mei Tai or would prefer something that clips. My DH uses our Kozy and Rosiebaby Mei Tais all the time and likes them. I have also heard rave reviews of the bEco - www.ecobabies.com and I plan to get one once DS is a toddler. Usually guys are open to pouches since they're simple and don't require adjusting, so maybe if you can get him to try the pouch he'll change his mind?

[SD601]

dana, sorry I'm no help. I never liked ring slings.

b, yes, a patapum is not the best carrier for a newborn. As far as daddy carriers, well, a pouch is about as simple as it gets, really. See the pics of my Dh wearing DS in a simple black pouch...it's still his favorite carrier, though DS is 14 months.

An Ergo is a good choice because you can get the infant insert. It looks a lot like a bjorn but is much better for the baby and can be used until toddler-hood (like 45 pounds or so). Yes, it can be pricey at about $90, but bjorns are $90, and you can only use those until the child is 25 pounds! And the Ergo can be used on the back as well! Here's a site for discounted ergos (http://www.myfavoritebabycarrier.com/used.html)

The bECO is a gorgeous carrier but also needs an infant insert as well. It's also pretty expensive and IMO, not as well-made as an Ergo and Patapum...more flimsy...although I did just order one, um...

A mei tai may not be as structured a carrier, but it will work well for an infant. There are several examples of MT in this thread; I think Kozy's and rosiebaby MT are big hits here. My DH couldn't tie very well, so he was never a big fan of the MT...silly because it's so easy! He likes buckles better, hence his love of the patapum (like the Ergo) and the bEco.

[EJM]

any rec's for a ring sling (besides zolo)? i really want a new ring sling. i was waiting to buy a soul baby nyc sling, but i've given up -- she's no longer making them. is anyone selling something similar? i already have a zolo and an oopa, i like the look of the rockin baby, but it always gets awful reviews. my only other option is to buy my own fabric and do a custom through sleeping baby.

Are you a member of TBW? There have been a couple of SBNYCs floating around FSOT for really cheap.

How do you mean similar -- shoulder style or pocket?

There have been rave reviews of a new RS called Sakura Bloom from a bunch of people who tested them out. They are silk and really beautiful, but it sounds like the price point is going to be really high. They are planning to launch sometime between now and the end of November.

[EJM]

bECO: I've owned 2, and my biggest annoyance is that despite both being 4th Generations (and ordered a few weeks apart) they were definitely different carriers. When I found myself wanting to wear the bECO it was for longer periods of time when I really needed the pocket on the Ergo, so it sat unused most of the time. I think it is a good product and the recent improvements address some of my issues with it, but I think I will hold off on trying it again until more of the kinks are worked out.

[malala]

I've been using my hotsling to wear DD. But now that the cold weather is coming and we're both wearing more clothes, I'm having a hard time placing her in the sling. I'm not comfortable anymore.

What do you guys recommend for me? DD is 10 mos old and she's a big baby, 21 lbs 29 in long. I had been carrying her in my hip, and it worked well for both of us, so I think I'd like to be able to keep carrying her like that, but I'm open to suggestions. TIA

[LRL]

There have been rave reviews of a new RS called Sakura Bloom from a bunch of people who tested them out. They are silk and really beautiful, but it sounds like the price point is going to be really high. They are planning to launch sometime between now and the end of November.

EJM- I just want to second this one- I was not a tester for these, but the photos of Sakura Blooms are stunning! I can't wait until they open!

[Sevilla]

EJM: Your Beco experience is why I'm content to hold off for another 6 months or so too. I figure by that point they will be more refined and I will be more confident in the product.

Malala - I would recommend a hip carrier like the one here: www.rosiebaby.com/hipcarrier

[maybebaby]

Hi...I took my 3 month old daughter to the beach yesterday in a hotsling (size 2) and it kept slipping off my shoulders as I tried to walk. I also have a moby wrap and maybe I'm wearing both of them wrong, but I just don't feel very secure when I leave the house with her in a sling. I'm 5'4, 121 pounds so I feel like the size 2 should be the right size for the hotsling, but is it too big and that's why it's falling off my shoulder? Or am I not wrapping correctly?

Thanks for any insight!

[malala]

Sevilla: Thanks for the rec. what is that kind of carrier called?

[angelgirl8]

maybebaby...i don't know about the moby wrap and i don't have a hotsling, but i think for pouches you can do a shoulder flip to make it tighter?

i don't know if this is descriptive enough, but here is a picture: http://www.hotslings.com/wearing/techniques.php

[Dreshny]

maybeababy: I'm 5'3" and 117 lbs, and I'm a size 1 Hotsling. But as angelgirl suggested, you can try the shoulder flip, or you could even try shrinking the sling a little in the dryer.

[Sevilla]

Maybe your particular size 2 was cut large? I know that can be the case. I also found that with my pouch it would ride down my shoulder after awhile, so what I started doing was starting it almost all the way on my collarbone with just a little lip on my shoulder and that helped prevent the issue longer. But if yoru sling is not tight enough to start with that will be an issue. i'll say that DS feels most secure in a ring sling since i can tighten it to my liking. I am 5'4 and 120 lbs and wear a size 2, so i don't think the issue is size. Where did you buy it from? Can you exchange it?

In terms of the Moby wrap, it should feel very secure as long as your baby isn't too heavy. I have a woven cotton wrap that is very secure when I put my DS in it. What kind of carry are you doing with the Moby?

ETA: Malala - it is called 'hip carrier' and is also called a 'mei hip' by one company that makes them (Ellaroo - you can see those here: http://store.attachedtobaby.com/detail.aspx?ID=141&Name=EllaRoo-Mei-Hip)

[maybebaby]

Thanks! I'm going to try the shoulder flip and maybe shrinking it if that doesn't work (I feel like it's too late to exchange for a different size because I've been wearing it in the house a fair amount).

[bamboo]

I still carry my DD (18 months and around 25 pounds) on my back in a mei tei daily. I also carry her in a didymos wrap on my back, which I think is more comfortable for long distances/times, but it has a steeper learning curve than a mei tei.

[Jane&Andy]

just wanted to come back and say how much I've enjoyed my Rosie Baby Mei Tai
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid217/pa71af5f05a6962e89fc7c66cca8b7c54/ec6a7d4b.jpg
here we are at the Renaissance Festival this past weekend.

[Sevilla]

What a cute MT Jane! Joey and you both look great!!! :)

[dana b]

ejm thanks! i totally forgot about tbw and the yahoo group, it looks like i have a couple of options now -- and a couple of other things i found along the way ;) it's been a while since i've *really* shopped for carriers, now i'm obsessing over a panel kozy :rolleyes: i think a sakura bloom will be on my list as well!

[EJM]

No problem! I wish I could do 80-82 inches because most of SBNYC listed are that long, but it hangs down to my ankles.

The other options I would suggest if you like a gathered shoulder is an Eesti and a Kalea Baby. Eesti is on a moving break now, but Karen is super easy to work with, everything is custom (at least until she has a website I think) and very inexpensive -- less than $35 usually.

And I'm a sucker for trying new things out, so I've asked DH for an Upmama RS hybrid for my b-day. DD is getting so darn heavy, I'm hoping the pouch like seat keeps her in place a little better.

[Jane&Andy]

thanks Sevilla. :)

[seattleguamgirl]

I use the Ergo baby carrier to carry DS (who is 20.5 months and 22 lbs) and I love it! It is much more comfortable than the mei tai for me.

[mel7dog]

I just sold my beloved MTB Zippy :confused: I am a little sad, but ready to try something new. I know I want either a new style babyhawk w/headrest or a Rosie baby hip carrier. My question is for those of you with the hip carrier does it get uncomfortable fast like a pouch because it only goes on 1 shoulder? I love the idea of the hip carrier, but I need to be able to wear it as long as a MT (an hour+) before it gets uncomfy.

[Ilovemygeek]

I just bought a Hotsling and I am wondering if you ladies can help me determine if it is too large. I am 38 weeks pregnant and when I have the sling on I can open it about 6 inches and snugly fit an infant-sized doll in it. My concern is when my huge belly is gone that the sling will be too big. Is this how it should fit when you are pregnant or should I exchange it for a smaller size? I would like to be able to use my sling right away after my DD is born, so I want to get this figured out as soon as possible.

[DallasLady]

I have a hotsling as well. Right now I wear an XL or size 16-18 and I bought a size 5 hotsling. It fits just fine.

Here we are using it:
http://www.tonyandgiovanna.com/baby/alexa/10-14-06b.jpg

I love it! It has been a lifesaver in the grocery store when she gets fussy in her carrseat/carrier.

[EJM]

Ilovemygeek: Sizing while pregnant is really difficult. I would keep the pouch, unless you are really worried about it being huge. If you plan to use it right away you will still have some of the pregnancy weight and the craddle carry requires the most room in the pouch. I normally wear a size 2 HS, maybe even a slightly shrunken 2 with my 1 year old DD in a hip carry. When she was born I found the size 3/4 most comfortable. Pouches can be really tricky to fit because you also need to take your DCs size into account.

IMO, until the baby is 10 pounds a slightly larger pouch won't bother the wearer because the baby is so tiny. The size I use now would have never worked with a newborn, but if the fit was not so snug now I could never carry my 22 pounder for more than a few minutes without pain.

[lady1297]

hi all! I have been reading along and was looking for advice. My second baby will be born in March and I plan on using my beloved ring sling from the beginnign so I can chase around me oldest. But I never used it on an infant. Any advice? I thought I read something about having to put a recieving blanket under their heads?? Anyone know about this? TIA!!

[maryanne]

Have any of you checked this Kelty system out? The carrier converts into a stroller. It totally intrigues me. Since I almost always carry my dd and rarely use the stroller except on all day events like festivals and going into The City, I think this might work for travelling to mexico instead of taking the full size stroller.

http://www.kelty.com/kelty/index.cfm?cid=415&fuseaction=Kids.ShowProduct&type=carrier&ID=13

[EJM]

I thought I read something about having to put a recieving blanket under their heads?? Anyone know about this?

It is really important when positioning a baby in a sling that you ensure their chin is not touching their chest, and that the neck is in line with the spine. Since tiny babies do not have neck control the head will tend to fall forward with the chin to chest. A receiving blanket under the head can help avoid that problem.

[Aletheia]

Hi ladies! I'm gearing up for my next purchase, and would ideally have it accomplish both of these objectives. I'd like to be able to wear S under my clothes, skin to skin. I'd also like to be able to shower with him on. Anyone have any experience with either of these things?

[Marisa]

Aletheia -- did you have anything in mind already? I know that a Solarveil pouch works great for 'swimming' and showering; I was still using mine with Joey this past summer (he was 2.5)....


(ETA about that last part -- at the beach, not showering! No way you could shower attached to a 2.5 yr old! :))

[LRL]

Aletheia- I also have a solarveil ring sling that I use with DS for showering, pool, etc. It is nice and grippy!

[dana b]

lady1297 for chasing after my toddler, i like my babyhawk mt with the headrest. unlike the pouch or ring sling, i can be more active without having to hold his head or readjust him.

aletheia a gypsy mama water wrap would work for those, esp the skin to skin http://www.gypsymama.com/shop/proddetail.php?prod=water

[Wrighty26]

aletheia - I would also like to get something for showering! I wish I had bought a gypsy mama water wrap. But I think if I bought another wrap right now my husband would kill me! If you get it - let me know how you like it :D

[lady1297]

dana-I'd love to have a meitai, but doubt DH will want me spendig more money. i may just have to twist his arm....Do those work with newborns?? i always thought of them as more for older babies.

EJM-thanks! I'll be sure to do that!

[nuhmah]

aletheia - I have been wanting a gypsymama wrap to shower with, too. Did you end up getting a "regular" gypsymama wrap? Although I think I may just go to the fabric store and try to find some mesh, lightweight gauze, or something similar to make one for now.

lady - yep, Mei Tai's can be used with newborns. I would suggest rolling the bottom so that the body isn't as long as it normally is, but I know that Kelley has pictures on the Kozy Website (www.kozycarrier.com) of herself wearing a 3 week old on her back, and an even younger infant on her front.

[dana b]

lady i used it w/ dd when she was older 9 mos+ and didn't really think it was all that comfy. i've been using it w/ ds since he was about a week old and i love it, i think the strong headrest really helps.

gypsy mama water wrap i noticed one that hadn't sold on the babywearer fsot board, i'm hunting for a wool one myself. why oh why is it that every carrier i want is impossible to find :p

[Camdynlyn]

I just bought a Moby Wrap after borrowing a friends on Wednesday!!

[Wrighty26]

I just bought a Moby Wrap after borrowing a friends on Wednesday!!

I got my Moby Wrap last week and LOVE it. I wished I had when my DS was teeny tiny! I know better for next time :)

I really need to check the Babywearer fsot boards!

ETA - Thanks for the heads up on the GM Water Wrap dana b - I ended up buying one after all for a lot less!

[Aletheia]

so folks seem to lean towards the water wrap? I just feel like it would be hard to unwrap once done, esp when all you want to do in the winter is get from shower to warm fluffy towel as soon as you can. but with the water wrap i could buy one carrier to accomplish both of my objectives-- that's a good thing. or is it? :p

nuhmah- maybe we could have an artsy day? wanna try and make some watery type wraps together?

[ion]

Hi. Thanks for this thread. I read the summary at the front, but didn't read through all 88 pages of this thread, so I apologize if this is a common question. I have a 5 month old who is 17-18 lbs. Since he has hated being in a cradle hold since birth I'm looking for an upright carrier.

Since he is a heavy and tall boy I need a carrier that will be kind on my back. I'd also like it to be wearable by my husband who is a foot taller than me (but not a MUST). I don't want it to be too complicated, but I'm okay with a learning curve.

I've been thinking about an ERGO carrier or MT. I'm afraid the MT would be hard on the back. I want the carrier to last a while not just a few months.

Anyone have any suggestions?

[tunibell]

ion - I love, love, love my Ergo. DD is 8 mo (and about 19 lbs) and I carry her in it nearly every single day. She also loathed cradle-hold carriers, and I found the Bjorn to be beyond hard on my back.

[{b}]

Loving my KKAFP - but it's warm. And DH wants something, too. Maybe, just maybe, he'll let me splurge on slinglings.com 's 3-for-2 deal... one for him, of course... obsession beginning... growing... soon to be uncontrollable...

[Sevilla]

Ion: A Mei Tai, Ergo, or Patapum would fill your needs. Mei Tais, especially larger-bodied ones like the Kozy (www.kozycarrier.com) fit through the toddler years. The owner of the site has carried her 4 year old in the Kozy before no problem. I personally like the Mt's b/c i like all the different pattern and fabric options. I find them very comfortable.

[ejs]

Help! I am completely overwhelmed by the choices. I will be having my first baby early next year. I'm intrigued by the idea of a sling or carrier. However, I have no idea what's best. I've looked at the links on the first few pages of this thread, but I'm now even more confused.

Important factors to me are: safety and comfort of the baby, ease of use, easy to learn (I'm not the most coordinated), comfort for me.

I'd appreciate any feedback you have. Feel free to PM me if you don't want to clutter the thread. Thanks!

[Toonces]

ejs ~ Those are the things I was looking for in a sling, too. I've tried quite a few and the two I like best are the : Kangaroo Korner Adjustable Fleece Pouch (http://www.kangarookorner.com/c-9-adjustable-fleece-pouch.aspx) and Ergo Baby Carrier (http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/). Both are super easy to use, comfortable to wear and safe for baby.

[EJM]

Ion: I have a bad back and use both the Ergo and various brands of MTs with my 20 pound DD without any pain. I don't think you could go wrong with either.

ejs: I would suggest starting with a pouch, fit can be a bit tricky, but definitely the easiest to use. There are a few brands that are adjustable so fit is less trial and error. It is what we started with, loved, and the obsession has grown from there. ;) After the babe is a little older, heavier, and has more head control you might move to something else. In my case, between a floppy newborn and sleep deprevation I couldn't figure anything else out for a few months and loved our pouch.

[Wrighty26]

ejs - I have a hotsling, a Kozy Mei Tai, and a Moby Wrap and while I like all three- I wish I had bought the Moby Wrap sooner! It's great for my 4 month old and I know it would have been awesome for him as a newborn. We primarily used the fleece Hotsling when he was teeny - but he quickly outgrew it and doesn't really like it anymore in any of the positions. The MT is definitely the most versatile, and I know that I will be using it a lot when he gets bigger. The Moby is just SO comfy (it's stretchy cotton) and my DS is just SO happy when he's in it. Every baby is different though! I suggest trying out a few different ones - and also check out the Babywearer forums. Good luck with your decisions - and congrats on your upcoming arrival!

[Sevilla]

EJS: Start with a pouch. They are the easiest to learn and the least expensive. I like Hotslings and Peanutshell microfleece. I had a Kangaroo Korner Fleece Pouch but found the pocket too large for me and my baby (we're both petite) but women I know with larger babies loved it.

If you are a bit more adventerous I would recommend a stretchy wrap like a Moby wrap or a Hotmama wrap. Those are great for a newborn but a bit more complicated to figure out.

Once your baby is 3ish months old the pouch and the Moby won't be your best options anymore - and then you can come back and ask for more recommendations for an older baby :).

[dana b]

ion for a heavier baby, i prefer the patapum (or ergo) to the mei tai. we carried my dd until she was 2 in the patapum for long periods of time with no back pain. it was easier for dh to use by himself as well.


ejs to overwhelm you even more -- i really, really like the hug-a-bub for a newborn. i'm normally not a wrap person, but it came with a video and i only needed to watch it once to "get it". i like that it has 2 different newborn positions and you can leave it on and take the baby in and out as needed.

[EJM]

dana b Have you tried a Moby and prefer the Hug-a-Bub? I want to get a starter wrap when we have DC #2 someday and I'm wondering what the major differences are besides the price.

[ion]

Thanks for all the suggestions! One question, how do you get the baby in the Ergo carrier by yourself? I can see it's easy to get the pack on since it's like a backpack, but it seems like it would be difficult to get the baby in and out.

I just watched the instructional video on the ergo baby website and it looks really daunting. Especially if you use it with an infant! Any real life opinions on this?

[portlandbride]

ion - I just bought the Ergo and the infant insert and I love it! I am a bit carrier shy as I can't seem to get the hang of them, but I've found this one to be so easy. I've had a Maya Wrap, a Kozy, a Hug-a-Bub (which I did love, but my baby didn't) and a Peanut Shell but this one is by far my favorite.
I haven't had any trouble getting DD into it or out of it but she is only 6 weeks old. I haven't tried it on my older daughter yet as she is in the running around stage. :)
If you are interested in the Ergo let me suggest the website myfavoritebabycarrier.com as they ship really quickly and offer a 90 day return policy. That way you have a reasonable amount of time to try it out and if you don't like it you can return it.

[nuhmah]

aletheia - ooooh, and artsy day sounds fun! I always wondered if you wanted to do a GTG? Did you go to the NINO meeting last weekend? I mixed up my days and showed up on Sunday morning (instead of Saturday). :o

ejs - I also suggest starting with a pouch, although some people swear by ring slings for their versatility and ability to adjust. I started with both a cotton and a fleece Hotsling - and now I have moved on to wraps and MT's. The pouch is the easiest to use and has a really small learning curve. You also might want to find your local NINO (Nine In, Nine Out) group and see if they have a lending library. This way you can try out a few things, and find other babywearing mama's in your area.

[Kanga]

Has anyone ever ordered tfrom sleepingbaby.com? Her prices are much less than others I've seen, so I'm wondering about the quality of the fabric and sewing.

[EJM]

Liz -- do you mean sleepingbaby.net? Many people, myself included, think Jan's shoulder is one of the comfiest out there (she uses a 5 or 7 pleat depends on when it was made). I prefer a pleated or gathered shoulder to a hot-dog style. I also think they can be easier to master if you are new to RS. She does lightening fast work and the quality is really good. The only trick to ordering from her is doing it when she has "points" available, which is all explained on her website.

I had a tencel which was an interesting material and probably great for a younger babe, but I didn't find it really supportive for my 20 pounder.


Congrats on DD #2 :)

[Sevilla]

Kanga - I had a RS made over with the SBP style shoulder and Jan was wonderful to work with, her quality was good, and she was very fast. I really like that she is out there with lower prices compared to other RS's. I personally prefer the hotdog style shoulder of Zolo and find it more comfortable than the pleats. But i know a TON of people who just adore her style. Plus, since it is an inexpensive sling it's no big deal if you don't love it, yk? There are SBP'd style slings for sale all the time on Thebabywearer.com boards, so you could check out over there too.

[Candy]

Ion I'd also recommend the Patapum. It's very similiar to the Ergo, but much cheaper. I just had DD who is 21 months on my back yesterday with no back pain or problems at all.

As far as a 1st carrier, I'd recoimmend a pouch; either a Hotsling or New Native. I started with a ring sling, but had a bit of trouble with it in the beginning. A pouch is very easy to use.
I LOVED my ring sling though for nursing on the go. It was a lifesaver!

[Kanga]

Thanks EJM and Sevilla...and yes I meant sleepingbaby.net. I think I'm going to order one, but am unsure of the type of fabric. What kind do you recommend. I'm getting it to use with dd#2, so she'll be tiny when we first use it, but I'd love it if the same sling could also work when she's 6-8 months old. Oh, and something that's easy to care for. I'm laundry illiterate. I looked on her site, but didn't see anything about the spefics of the different types of fabric. Obviously I'm sewing illiterate too.:rolleyes:

[LRL]

Kanga- Jans Tencel slings are supposed to be really soft and supportive. I would avoid linen, silk, etc. If you don't like it and want to get something different down the road, you can always swap it! There is a link on her tencel page which gives more info: http://www.sleepingbaby.net/shop/proddetail.php?prod=tencel

[Sevilla]

I'd go with the cotton stretch twill.

[ion]

portlandbride Thanks for the tip about my myfavoritebabycarrier.com. I ordered my Ergo from them and can't wait to receive it! The site seems like they are really top notch with customer service! :)

[portlandbride]

ion - glad to help!
I hope you like the carrier, I am still having good luck with it. :)

[neenbean]

Anyone have advice about using an "Over The Shoulder Baby Holder" or any ring sling in general, I guess???
Baby#2 is arriving next Monday and I am beginning to worry about how to use it. A friend gave me her's, but now lives 8 hours away. Another friend will try to stop by the hospital to get me started, but I am clueless and have never had success with slings in the past.

DD was so happy in the Bjorn and HATED when we tried a sling~ she was 4 months at the time and already loved to be in an upright position.

I have every intention of getting this baby in a sling, but will not buy a different model until I am comfortable and confident baby is happy. I figure getting started while in the hospital (3-5 days for c/s recovery) will be a good idea, so it is packed. :)

Suggestions??

[Sevilla]

The OTBH is kind of an obnoxious sling b/c of all the padding and closed tail making adjusting it tight enough not very easy. Using it is not comparable to unpadded ring slings (which is what i'm used to) but my best advice is to practice with a stuffed animal for the next week or two to get comfortable with it :). Good luck!

[neenbean]

The OTBH is kind of an obnoxious sling b/c of all the padding and closed tail making adjusting it tight enough not very easy. Using it is not comparable to unpadded ring slings (which is what i'm used to) but my best advice is to practice with a stuffed animal for the next week or two to get comfortable with it :). Good luck!

Thanks for the suggestion of using a stuffed animal! I never thought of that. The sling is a size too small, so I am not worried about getting it tight enough- more about it being too tight. :o So far, I like the padding on the shoulder, but wish the tail was much longer- for covering up while nursing, etc. I will get it out tomorrow and begin practicing; it would probably help DD to be used to seeing me with it on, too, I guess! 6 days and counting.... Yikes.

[Marisa]

I think that the OTSBH is not such a bad sling to learn on, it was my first ring sling. Practice is key! When I was making ring slings, I actually often used a large juice bottle to practice -- a stuffed animal is the right size and shape, but doesn't have the right heft, KWIM? :)

[neenbean]

When I was making ring slings, I actually often used a large juice bottle to practice -- a stuffed animal is the right size and shape, but doesn't have the right heft, KWIM? :)
I know exactly what you mean. Maybe I will try using both? I just need to get myself comfortable, I guess, before forcing it on baby. :o

[lady1297]

Hi all! I'm curious if anyone has a link for a pattern to make a meitai? I am pretty good at sewing and while I love supporting WAHM's, I hate buying something I can make on my own. :) Thanks all! (I did have a link, but apparently it is no longer active)

[Sevilla]

I know exactly what you mean. Maybe I will try using both? I just need to get myself comfortable, I guess, before forcing it on baby. :o
Even better than a juice bottle - if you have wrist/ankle weights for exercising wrap that around the middle of a stuffed animal and practice with that!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mei Tai Patterns - if you go to www.thebabywearer.com forums there is a "Do It Yourself" section where you can find things like this. :) Two very important things for a good MT are reinforced stitching/having the straps be anchored far into the body instead of on the edges, and padding the shoulder straps for comfort.

[lady1297]

Thanks sevilla- I thought I looked there, but must have missed it. I made my ring sling, so I know all about reinforcing things. I'm like a mad woman when I do this! :) I'll look into it! Thanks again!

[Sevilla]

Thanks sevilla- I thought I looked there, but must have missed it. I made my ring sling, so I know all about reinforcing things. I'm like a mad woman when I do this! :) I'll look into it! Thanks again!
http://www.thebabywearer.com/lists/Sewing.htm
http://www.geocities.com/i0lanthe/mt/index.html
http://www.bradley-etheridge.com/MaeMeiTai.htm

[Kanga]

Thanks for all the help on picking out the right sling. I think I'm going to go with the cotton stretch twill as it's $12 cheaper. Now I just need to decide if I want a pocket or not and which color to get.

Sizing question - I'd really like to have the sling before the baby comes, but is it possible to get an accurate measurement since I'm pg? I'm normally ~95lbs and 5'3'' when not pregnant and would like to have some tail to cover for nursing, but don't want it clear down to my ankles either. Would it be easy to hem the tail if I got it too long. I can barely sew a button on, but my MIL and g-ma could do it if it was just a straight piece of fabric at the end of the tail.

[LRL]

Kanga- I think that it would be really easy to get a RS altered. It is just a straight line at the bottom, and I know that Jan just hand rolls the hem while she sews it (the sides are done with a machine hemming foot). You are so tiny that I would think an RS in the 68-70 range would fit best. Of course you can always go up a size but that might mean not getting the pocket since you would have to move this too if you altered it.

I use a 78" sling, but I am 150, 5'8" and have BFing bbs! I like my slings to go to my mid thigh.

[mrstim]

Another great resource for sewing your own: Jan Andrea (http://www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/Baby/index.html#abc)

[goldfish]

Hi - I need help! Can anyone recommend a sling that my 7 month, 17 1/2 pound DS cannot try to escape from? I have an ergo, which I love but lately in the front position he gets all upset and leans all the way back, like he's trying to pop himself out! Not to mention his weight distributed like that is really uncomfortable. I also have two Peanut shells from his newborn days, but the hip carry doesn't feel that secure to me and I have to keep one hand on him, which for me defeats the whole purpose.

Can anyone recommend anything I should try? Thank you in advance! :)

[neenbean]

Can anyone recommend anything I should try? Thank you in advance! :)
Would a Mei Tei be snug enough to keep your DS in place? Seeing as you tie it as tight as you want, I would think you could make the fit as tight as is comfortable, but contain your baby.

One option may be a Playtex Hip Hammock (http://www.playtexbaby.com/hiphammock/) (for babies 15-35lbs). I have seen several women wearing them and all have exclaimed how happy they are. DD was very content in the Bjorn, so I never tried one.

I am sure others have even better suggestions. :)

[Sevilla]

I second the recommendation of a mei tai like www.kozycarrier.com (it has a larger body so harder to escape from ;)) or a hip carrier like you can see here - www.rosiebaby.com (she makes both mei tais and hip carriers).

[EJM]

goldfish: My DD went through a phase like this :rolleyes: , it was so painfully (literally) annoying. A larger bodied MT will keep them from falling out, and for some reason I found DD got more leverage to hoist herself out in the Ergo which she didn't have in the MT. Really what finally got her to stop was time, and just ignoring it whenever she was hopping around. :cool: It took about a month, but she finally quit.

[Ade]

Sorry if this has already been posted, but I'm trying to figure out how to correct this ASAP. Every time I wear my 3.5 week old DS in a sling he grunts like he is having labored breathing. I have tried a pouch sling, padded sling and unpadded sling all with the same results. I try to get his head as level with his body as possible, but it doesn't seem to help. I think it is the position he is in in the sling as he doesn't do this in the Bjorn. Any suggestions? I'm so hesitant to use the sling now as I am afriad I am hurting him, but it is so much easier than the Bjorn so would love to figure this out.

[Sevilla]

You can place a receiving blanket under him to prevent his chin curling into his chest.

[EJM]

Does your little one have reflux? Being completely upright is usually more comfortable for a child with that condition. If not, I agree with Sevilla's suggestion about the receiving blanket.

Do you live near a chapter of NINO (Nine In, Nine Out)? It would be easier for someone to see in person and give advice.

[Ade]

EJM, no acid reflux (that i know of!), he's just a grunter. Sevilla, the receiving blanket worked like a charm! We were even able to successfully nurse in the sling for the fist time! I am so excited. Thank you!!

[goldfish]

EJM, Sevilla, neenbean - thank you so much! I'm going to take your advice and try a mei tai and hopefully we'll have better luck. He just wants to pop himself out of that Ergo for some reason! Thank you so much again for your advice! :)

[lady1297]

Thanks sevilla for the rest of the links. I've printed them out and will be looking though my stash for fabric this weekend! :) Thank you!

[goldfish]

I apologize, but I am back with another question...is there any difference between the MT's at kozycarrier.com and babyhawk.com? Again, my main concern is keeping my DS "contained" in a larger-bodied one, but I couldn't tell from the pictures if one is bigger than the other.

Thank you!! :)

[Sevilla]

Godlfish - Kozy's are larger-bodied, but Babyhawk XT's are as long as a Kozy (regular Babyhawks are shorter).

[NYN]

how long did it take you guys before you were able to get your DC's in a back carry with a mei tai or wrap on your own? i am going on three months of trying this and DD runs off but she is happy to be in there if her dad helps her in or if i help her onto his back. it's not even that she's afraid. she just doesn't want to sit still while i get the sling around her butt. i keep saying "we'll try again next month" but at this rate i'm not sure it's going to happen. i'm with her by myself a lot so i'd like to have the option to be able to do it myself.

[EJM]

We've been doing the backcarry since around 8 or 9 months. I do it in front of the mirror because I like to make sure everything looks ok and DD loves to make faces at herself and clap. It keeps her busy while I'm adjusting. Are you able to hold her with one hand and do the hip scoot? Until I was confident I stood next to the bed so we could both sit down just in case she wiggled.

[Marisa]

NYN - how are you getting her in there in the first place? For a long time I'd set up the mei tai on a straight-backed chair with arms, then put Joey on top of it, then sit on the chair in front of him and bring the straps up around me. I could do any minor adjustments once I stood, but that helped me get him into place without him slipping away (most of the time).

[Sevilla]

I've been doing unassisted back carries since DS was 4-5 months old - i do them at home, in parking lots, in stores, etc... I do the hip scoot and then bend over so my back is flat like a table. I keep one hand on his butt at all times while I pull the straps/body up over him. I do it in front of a mirror when i can b/c DS likes to look at himself and it keeps him still.

[NYN]

with the mei tai i put the MT down on the couch, i sit her in it and then i try to tie it. w/ the wrap i try to stand her behind me on the couch (i am sitting) and kind of scoot over so my back is bent. this is when she starts to try to run off. w/ the MT she just runs off as soon as i sit down. i'm afraid that i missed my window of opportunity and should have done this before she turned a year. she is also really heavy so it is hard for me to balance her on my back when she isn't being cooperative. can someone point me to somewhere that describes the hip scoot better? my MT came second-hand so i don't have the booklet that comes w/ it (i have an ellaroo).

[EJM]

Here are pretty good photos in the "Back Carry" section.

http://www.kozycarrier.homestead.com/instructions.html

By standing and doing the hip scoot, you can have the MT tied around your waist then grab your DD so she cannot run away before you get her back there.

[nuhmah]

For anyone else wondering about back carries - DS cried bloody murder when in the back carry on the MT until about a week ago. So, that makes him about 4 1/2 months to begin tolerating it. He has fallen asleep every time, but definitely enjoys it because he can look around more and enjoy the scenery.

[NYN]

i just wanted to report back that i did my own interpretation of the "hip scoot" and was able to get DD on my back. she actually fell asleep there today so i am going to take that as a sign that she likes it. thanks for all your help.

[spps]

I am looking for recs for a carrier that would allow me to do both a hip and back carry with DS who is just about 18 months and probably between 22-23 pounds. When we are out he either wants to walk or be carried and refuses to sit in the stroller for long periods of time unless we are actually moving. I would love something that is easy to pop him in and out of and that will last us for a while. I already have a Maya wrap and a KKACP but neither works for us right now.

[Sevilla]

A Mei Tai or soft structured carrier like a Beco or Ergo would be you best bet for back carries. For hip carries you could try a mei hip carrier or a wrap.

[mandersald]

hi all-
so, i was wondering how you deal with carrying your dc in the cold. do you just bundle them up in lots of layers and wear them on top of your coat, or do you bundle them up inside your coat?

i have a kkafp and 4 week old ds loves it around the house, but i want to leave the house! :)

[EJM]

In the craddle position, I put my DD in 2-3 layers, a hat, and threw a receiving blanket over her (or a heavier blanket if it was colder). I was always worried about keeping her warm enough, but she was usually warm and sometimes sweaty by the time we walked to where I was going.

I usually wore the KKAFP over my coat.

Now that she is older and we stick mostly with MTs, I use either a Nori vest under my winter coat or a CatBird Baby Fleece MT cover. After a little more searching it seems like there are lots of babycarrier covers available this winter, or maybe I didn't look hard enough last winter?

[maryanne]

I got a pair of fleece lined jeans for dd from Old Navy. I figured that it would be cozy and warm and much more comfy than a one piece.

I also saw a cool idea on the babylegs site--they suggested using them on the arms for extra warmth. I find that both me and my dd stay warm from the body contact so I think that we both will be dressing a little lighter than I originally thought.

[Marisa]

I was pregnant through Nov-Dec-most of Jan, so I had a maternity coat. I would put Joey in the pouch, then put the coat on over both of us, buttoned most of the way with just his face peeking out. I didn't have to bundle him too much, maybe just a sleeper, jacket, hat, sometimes I tucked a receiving blanket in with him.

It was awesome when people would say "When are you due?" and I could open the coat a little and say, "He's already here!" :)

[2girls]

The Peanut Shell is great! I have 2 of them and my dd loves it. The fleece is more comfortable than the cotton. It weights nothing and can be thrown into a diaper bag.

[Sevilla]

I went to my first NINO meeting (http://www.nineinnineout.org) today and it was so much fun! I highly recommend going if you are interested in trying different types of carriers or getting help with using them correctly. I got to see a bunch of different wraps which was cool, as well as try on a Beco which is the carrier I am most interested in getting next. Plus it was just fun to hang out with moms who have a similar parenting vocabulary instead of the things you use being considered 'funky/different', yk? Anyway - i highly recommend going if you can!

[LRL]

Ha- someone just told me the exact same thing about going to a NINO meeting. Ours meets on Saturdays, and I have yet to go. I know that the ladies in our local group have some really neat wraps. Yes, I do live near Hippie nation. :D In fact, DH teases me by calling me his "little hippie" sometimes. Heck- I'm proud of our parenting decisions, even if my wrapping, etc. is considered a little crunchy!

[Sabriel]

In fact, DH teases me by calling me his "little hippie" sometimes.

LOL, DH called me a hippie the other day. I don't feel like one. I'm just doing what seems right for our little girl.

I just wanted to stop by and say that I traded some Fuzzi Bunz for a ring sling on TBW, and I'm in love! DD doesn't care much for the Hotsling (Yes, I make sure I have her in there correctly.) and she falls asleep when I put her in the MT. That's fine, but I wanted something that I could carry her in when we go out that she could see the world in. It is perfect, and she'll stay in it happily for over an hour. Yay! :)

[mandersald]

Quick question...ds loves to cuddle and i often carry him around the house in a kkafp for many hours during the day where he'll nap like a champ.

But, he hasn't been sleeping very well at night time in between feedings, and dh thinks maybe that i'm carrying him around too much during the day and he's getting too used to sleeping that way. everything in me thinks this is not right, but i'm getting very tired from sleep deprivation. See, he doesn't even sleep well when we cosleep at night, so i'm thinking that its not the sling...

i guess i'm just looking for some reassurance...anyone have any advice?

[maryanne]

mandersald, the fact is you've got a 4 week old and most four week olds don't sleep-they nap :)

seriously though, I know that you must be exhausted but imo you are doing two of the most comforting things for a baby, slinging and cosleeping. It is just so new for him learning what is around him ect. His body is growing soquickly (can you imagine the aches and pains that must come with doubling your size in six months?) and his tummy is so small. Hang in there! Sleep will eventually happen.

[nuhmah]

mandersald - I think that the reason he is getting any sleep at all is because you are wearing him! :D Right around 6 weeks, DS started to get his days and nights sorted out and then he started sleeping better. He didn't start to take a good "nap" on his own until closer to 8-10 weeks. I guess my advice is to hang in there, and keep on doing what you are already!

[Toonces]

mandersald ~ I do the same thing you do with my DS (born on 11/10). We also co-sleep and I found out he'll sleep better at night if we swaddle him in a Miracle Blanket (http://www.miracleblanket.com/index.htm). He flails about and wakes himself up if he's not swaddled or in a carrier or pouch.

[LRL]

mandersald- I totally agree with the PP. Wearing your baby is keeping him calm during the day- even if he is not sleeping much. Give it time, your baby is still a newborn and adjusting to what we consider to be "normal" sleep patterns.

[Wrighty26]

Just wanted to echo what everyone else said. My son loved to be carried around in his sling, or hang out nice in cozy in his carseat. He would sleep like that for hours. Around 2-3 weeks I discovered that swaddling was the ONLY way that he would sleep (unless he was physically lying on me-- which is what he was doing prior, but I wasn't getting a whole lot of sleep) at night. Newborns just like to be close to you - they are used to hearing your heartbeat and other noises and hanging out in a nice tight space. Fear not, your DS will eventually grow out of it (usually when the Moro reflex disappears). Anything you can do to help them transition will help - not hinder - your child's development. Instead, just enjoy your time cuddling him close to you. It's amazing how fast they grow out of that phase -- then you will really miss it!

[Sevilla]

ITA with others - carrying your baby a lot during the day will not contribute to night wakings. The best thing to do for the sleep deprivation is to nap with your baby during the day - that is how i made it through!

[mandersald]

thanks ladies-
you really made me feel better. ds still doesn't sleep very well at night, but i told dh that it certainly wasn't because of the sling. and here i am now, with my babe sleeping in his sling...

thanks!!

[Pink_Converse]

I've got a few questions I'm hoping you ladies can help me with:

Which Mei Hip Carrier have you tried? Do you like it? Was it easy to learn to wear?
Does any of the carrier cut into the baby?
Did anyone start babywearing late? My son is 6 mo. old and is getting so heavy! I'm just wondering if he will tolerate it. He likes to feel free and see what's going on so I think this would be a good carrier for him but I'm open to other suggestions.

TIA!

[Toonces]

I just got the Hug-a-Bub in the mail. I was watching the instructional DVD and DS started crying. I picked him up, put him in the Hug-a-Bub and he fell asleep within 10 seconds! It's very comfortable and I love that both arms are free. I was using the KKAFP, which I'll still use, but it's a little harder b/c then I only have one hand free. I was also using the Ergo Carrier with the infant insert, but it's a lot more bulky than the Hug-a-Bub. This is perfect for a newborn.

Pink Converse ~ We tried to wear DD early on, but she didn't like to be constricted in carriers (I tried a bunch of different ones, not the Mei carrier though). She eventually liked the Ergo Carrier. We started using that when she was around your DS's age.

[Kate&Joey]

Ladies...I hope you can help me with this. I didn't wear my DS until he was older (just carried him a lot LOL) so I'm not sure about what works best for newborns. :)

A friend of mine is expecting DC#2. Her DD will be almost 2 when the new baby is born. I thought about getting her a sling for the new baby. She used a Bjorn with DD so I was wondering what would be a better choice for a newborn. I figured that a sling with 2 under 2 would be a necessity! ;)

What do you ladies suggest for a newborn? Websites?

TIA!
K

[EJM]

Pink Converse: My DD HATED mei tais until she was about 6-7 months old. She literally screamed bloody murder the second I pulled it out of the closet. Now she loves them. Fit and comfort are so subjective, what one person swears by another may dislike. If your DS likes to be free, I would suggest looking for a smaller bodied carrier. You might try a Mei Tai instead of a Mei Hip since you can use the MT on both the hip/front/back, while the hip carrier is limited to the hip. If you do the MT a few smaller bodied brands would be: Freehand, BH (regular or regular with headrest), Ellaroo (old style), CatBird Baby.

Kate&Joey: If your friend could wrap, maybe a Moby Wrap or Hug a Bub. If not, then a pouch is the easiest for a newborn. Attachedtobaby.com has tons of choices if you are looking for one stop shopping.

[Toonces]

Kate&Joey ~ I have a 2 year old and a 3 week old. I just got a Hug-a-Bub (http://www.hugabub.com/) and love it. It's easy to use, lightweight, allows me to have both arms free and DS loves being belly to belly with me (he's sleeping in it on me right now :)). I needed something with these features so that I can comfortably get down on the floor and play with DD while DS sleeps in his carrier.

[Kate&Joey]

EJM and catgirl: Thanks so much for the recommendations! Hug-a-Bub looks great.

"I needed something with these features so that I can comfortably get down on the floor and play with DD while DS sleeps in his carrier."

That's just what I am looking for in a carrier for her. :D

[jh124]

Pink Converse ~ I use the rosiebaby Hippety do dah and it works great for us! I like being able to snap him on and off quickly. Disclaimer - I own three mei tais, so I have other options if I need them.

[Sevilla]

I would also recommend a stretchy wrap like a Moby or a Hug-a-bub. You can pre-tie it and pop the baby in and out quickly, and have both your hands free. www.attachedtobaby.com has several kinds of stretchy wraps :).

[Pink_Converse]

Is BH a Babyhawk?

[LRL]

Pink Converse, yes a BH is a Babyhawk.

[Pink_Converse]

So how long did it take you all to tie mei teis by yourself, out in public. I love the idea of them but I'm scared I'd put out all that money and not ever be able to figure it out. I feel like the hip carrier with the buckles would be easier to use.

[LRL]

Pink Converse- MTs are awesome for using out in public. They tie quickly once you have used it a few times. It shouldn't take too long at all to become an expert in tying it. If you are concerned that you might not like the MT, then I might pick one up on the FSOT section of thebabywearer.com in order to save some money. If you don't like it, in general, there is a pretty high resale value on the popular brands like BH, Kozys, Napsacks, Freehands, etc. Once my DS hit that weight, MTs and wraps have been what we have used. For me a hip carrier is not as versatile as I like my carriers to be.

[Sevilla]

Pink Converse - i've been tying out in public since we got our MT's. They're *very* easy to learn to use, especially the front carries. We started using a MT with DS when he was 2 months old, and when he was 5 months old I started doing back carries with him at home and out in public.

[nuhmah]

MT's are very easy to tie - even though they tend to look complicated! And I find it is easier to tie it myself. I appreciate it when people help me, but I can do it just fine on my own, and it is easier that way.

[neenbean]

Just wanted to report back that I am loving our Over the Shoulder Baby Holder~ring sling. I have used it around the house a few times and at the mall today and realized I will be using a LOT until this little one is much older!

Of course, the cashier at Sears felt it was OK to reach into the sling and try to "unsoffocate" DD#2!!!!!! :eek: :eek: I was so shocked I didn't know what to say. I assured her the baby could breath fine. The nerve of some people!!!!!!

How do you deal with this kind of thing or am I the only sucker who has had a stranger react to babywearing like this? :confused:

[Nigellas]

OK, I've been saving up my paypal dollars and have about $100 to buy a new MT. Any recs? I've been thinking about a babyhawk, but if there is something better I should consider tell me about it. :) THANKS!

[Sevilla]

Neenbean - Oh my gosh that's crazy about the clerk!!! I've never had that happen to me yet.

Nigellas - How fun that you have enough for a cool MT! I would go to http://store.attachedtobaby.com/ and browse the different MT's - and then go to the manufacturer's website to order (as ATB is only able to carry a smaller selection of patterns than the maker themselves, but it is a great place to see all the popular brands in one place!). The only other great MT that I would consider besides those on ATB is a Kozy (http://www.kozycarrier.com ) and they have a really cute Christmas Red Kozy for sale right now.

[Pink_Converse]

Does anyone have a pretty MT with buckles they like? Does Rosiebaby make them with buckels?

[EJM]

Nigellas: MT fit is super subjective. BabyHawks are nice, but you might have a very different experience using it depending on the body style you buy. I first started with an XT for my 4-5 month old which swallowed her and neither of us liked at the time. Just something to keep in mind as you browse. I did try a smaller one later and liked it since she was so little.

Pink Converse: Yes she does:
http://www.rosiebaby.com/hipcarrier.htm
Double check with Nancy, but if her hip carriers have the same body dimensions as her regular MTs it is a larger bodied carrier.

[NYN]

Of course, the cashier at Sears felt it was OK to reach into the sling and try to "unsoffocate" DD#2!!!!!! :eek: :eek: I was so shocked I didn't know what to say. I assured her the baby could breath fine. The nerve of some people!!!!!!
No one has ever done that to me (thank god b/c I would probably deck them instinctively) but I do find it annoying that people always try to help me get her out of my sling. Um, what do you think I do with her when we're alone?

I feel like I am either doing something wrong with my MT or maybe my DD is too heavy for it (she is 26lbs). I feel too much weight on my shoulders, moreso w/ the front carry but almost just as much w/ a back carry. Any suggestions? I love the idea of it (and it is so pretty) but I think I am doing something wrong.

[Sevilla]

Does anyone have a pretty MT with buckles they like? Does Rosiebaby make them with buckels?
Rosiebaby only makes the hip carrier with buckles.

If you are interested in a true MT-style carrier with buckles I would highly recommend the Beco (www.ecobabies.com). I got to use one this past week on vacation (borrowed from SD601) and it was great! Very easy to put on, use, and adjust and it comes in great patterns too.

[Pink_Converse]

I want a beco, I just really looked into them today. Dh says I can get one for my b-day but I'm just trying to find the "perfect" carrier. I really think I'd do better with the buckles. I think I will have MIL try to make me a traditional MT too. She's never made one before but if I found some good instructions I'm sure she could make me one. I'm getting excited about baby wearing. I just need to make a decision.

I know I'm asking alot of questions but I have another. If you have made one yourself where did you get the pattern? How did it turn out?

[PinkBeary]

If you have made one yourself where did you get the pattern? How did it turn out?

I just made a couple and they turned out great. The pattern: http://www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/Baby/man-tai.shtml

I made one using corduroy and one using canvas. I am making them as christmas gifts this year. The only thing I would do differently is: if you are going to put padding on the bottom part of the mei tai (the part that ties around your waist), only put around 3-4 inches of padding on each side or else it is hard to tie because of the bulky batting. I hope that makes sense. I didn't make them with pockets. You can look on ebay for fabric and sewing ideas. :D

[Orion]

Hi Ladies: I'm in need of some advise. My daughter is turning one on Monday and I am currently 27 weeks pregnant and I am wondering about baby carriers. With DD I bought the Bjorn (which I loved) but with having two under two (DD will be 15 months when the new baby arrives) the Bjorn just won't work for us. We were considering getting a double stroller but I'm not really sure that it is the most practical solution and that is why I'm thinking of investing in some new slings. I am looking at the Ergo and a ring sling (the Ergo mostly being used for my oldest on the back and the ring sling for the new baby because it would also be great for breastfeeding in public). In your opinion, would the Ergo and a ring sling be the best option for a fairly active family who will be relying on slings instead of a double stoller for outings? Just to clarify, we do have a Peg stroller that can be used for one child but at least one will have to be in a sling while we are out.

[Sevilla]

Orion - We never use our stroller for outings, we always use carriers. We just did a cross-country vacation and didn't even bring the stroller. A soft-structured carrier like the Ergo (or Patapum or Beco) is a great choice for a toddler. For an infant a ring sling is a good bet too.

ETA: Pink Converse - If you join www.thebabywearer.com forums there is a whole Do-it-yourself section with patterns and suggestions. I don't recommend a padded waist strap, I have not found that necessary. But padding the shoulder straps is really nice. If you can sew it is fairly easy to make a MT.

[Chicksinger]

Get 15% off on ZoloWear (http://zolowear.com/Default.aspx) by entering the word swanky.

[Kanga]

I'm having a hard time deciding between a ring sling and a MT (but also open to any other suggestions you all have if you think it will work better for me). Just when I think I've made up my mind, I change it.

My needs:

-easily able to nurse in, hands free would be a huge plus

-able to chase after a toddler while wearing it, bending over to retrieve lost toys, etc

-easy to take on and off by myself, although I realize any carrier will have a bit of a learning curve

-versatility, being able to wear in different positions and last through several 'stages' (floppy newborn, awkard not sitting up on own yet, grown out of bucket stage, etc)

-made out of fabric that is easy to care for.

Cost is a factor, which is why I really want to find THE baby carrier, under $60 is my goal, but I think I could figure something out if was necessary to spend more.

[Sevilla]

Kanga - I would go with a ring sling. www.attachedtobaby.com has a wide selection, and i've heard great things about the lightly padded Maya.

[LRL]

Kanga- I have used different carriers for different stages DS has been in. RS are really nice and adjustable for nursing, etc. MT are great when they get bigger and start to lean and get heavier. I am told RS will be better again when my DS can control more of his own weight (walking).

What about buying an RS from Jan at Sleepingbaby.net (I saw that she has some for $20 which she tries to reserve for people who might otherwise not be able to try an RS- they were made out of good fabric, and her work is impecable.) Then you would still have $40 to purchase a MT (You can get a used Babyhawk for about 45-50, and some other brands go for less), or have someone make you one?

[LRL]

Kanga- I have used different carriers for different stages DS has been in. RS are really nice and adjustable for nursing, etc. MT are great when they get bigger and start to lean and get heavier. I am told RS will be better again when my DS can control more of his own weight (walking).

What about buying an RS from Jan at Sleepingbaby.net (I saw that she has some for cheap which she tries to reserve for people who might otherwise not be able to try an RS- they were made out of good fabric, and her work is impecable. She doesn't always have these lower priced slings, but she had a ton of extra fabric-) Then you would still have $40 to purchase a MT (You can get a used Babyhawk for about 45-50, and some other brands go for less), or have someone make you one?

[Toonces]

In your opinion, would the Ergo and a ring sling be the best option for a fairly active family who will be relying on slings instead of a double stoller for outings?

I never used a ring sling, so I can't comment on that one, but I do highly recommend the Ergo Carrier. We use it a lot with DD and even bought another one for DS so that DH can carry one of them and I can carry the other one. I don't like the infant insert for a newborn (I know you wanted it for your older DC anyway). Anyway, I thinkt he Ergo is a great choice for outings.

[EJM]

Orion: I'd go with an Ergo instead of a RS, especially if you plan to wear it for long periods of time. A one shoulder carry can get a little uncomfortable after an extended period of time with an older child. I never used an Ergo with a tiny infant, but they are in that stage for such a brief period of time hopefully it would work out ok. I love RSs now, but it wasn't until I could do the hip carry.

Kanga: I don't know, I'd probably go with a MT. Do you sew at all? One of our NINO leaders swears by her DIY stretchy wrap. She just went to the fabric store, got some cheap stretchy material, cut it in half, and serged the edges so it didn't fray. The woman owns some great carriers, but I always see her in her own wrap. If you are able to do that, it would be $10-15 (that was her estimate of what it cost and she actually had 2 wraps in the end), for when DD #2 is tiny. You could buy a MT when she is a bit older. Rosie Baby has $45 MTs and you can find great bargains on TBW in the same price range.

[Kanga]

I did use a home made no sew wrap (I can't sew to save my life) with dd for that awkward inbetween laying and sitting unassisted stage and it worked great until she insisted on facing forward. (6-7 months?). My MIL used to sew, but hasn't for quite some time. She's the type who has all kinds of wonderful ideas that get started but never seem to get finished though, so I don't know if she would actually finish it by the time I would need it. I think I'll go with a ring sling for now and ask MIL if she can make me a MT. If she never gets around to it, then I'll just buy one if I can't make the ring sling work any longer. It won't seem like so much all at once if I get one now, and then get one later.

[Orion]

Thanks for the replies girls. I am definitely sold on the Ergo and am asking Santa for this one as a gift but I am still on the fence about a ring sling. I'm more so thinking of getting a carrier that can be used so that I can have one child in the stroller and one child in a carrier. I'm thinking that maybe I can get away with just using the Ergo to carry my one year old and eventually the new baby (I'm not interested in getting the newborn insert) or use the Bjorn for the new baby (I think that DD #1 will be too big for it by the time I can use it again...hard to use a Bjorn with a large pregnant belly). I do have a sling pouch that was great for DD for the hip carry but as people have mentioned, it does wear out the shoulders after a bit. Again, thanks for the advice!

[Pink_Converse]

Do people that make baby carriers have to go thru any type of safety standards? Dh is getting me super worried about the safety of these products when not purchased in a "store" and from what I have found on Consumer Reports there isn't any kind of standards except voluntary ones or something like that. I'm I the only one that this worries?

[Wrighty26]

Pink - I guess my thought on this is that babywearing is just a natural thing and I haven't worried about safety. All of the carriers/slings I've used put my son in a natural position - so it's like I'm holding him close to my body without really holding him with my arms. As long as he feels secure to me, I don't really worry about the safety standards. I definitely know when he's not secure and he's at the age where he lets me know too.

I also think that carriers/slings safety greatly depends on the parent. If a parent takes the time to learn how to properly wear their child, safety shouldn't be an issue.

Of course, I'm in no way an expert - although women have been carrying their babies for years and years.

[snowzilla]

Thanks for the replies girls. I am definitely sold on the Ergo and am asking Santa for this one as a gift but I am still on the fence about a ring sling. I'm more so thinking of getting a carrier that can be used so that I can have one child in the stroller and one child in a carrier. I'm thinking that maybe I can get away with just using the Ergo to carry my one year old and eventually the new baby (I'm not interested in getting the newborn insert) or use the Bjorn for the new baby (I think that DD #1 will be too big for it by the time I can use it again...hard to use a Bjorn with a large pregnant belly). I do have a sling pouch that was great for DD for the hip carry but as people have mentioned, it does wear out the shoulders after a bit. Again, thanks for the advice!


Just comparing hip carries with my hotsling to my ring sling - I found that the shoulder fatigue with the ring sling was significantly reduced, especially when you've fanned the sling portion that goes over your shoulder the correct way. I can still carry my 16-month old in the ring sling in a hip carry for long periods of time without problems, and I have a pretty bad back. (Now, the real problem is that my 16-month old doesn't WANT to be carried in a sling - she wants to run!)

[Sevilla]

Pink Converse - whenever you receive a carrier you should examine it for safety, look at the stitching on the material to make sure it is reinforced and strong. As long as the stitching is strong you should have no worry about safety.

B/c they are not complicated, it is easy to see if it is properly made or not - with a Bjorn, there is a *lot* of sewed pieces, buckles, supports, etc... - the more complicated something is, the more of a chance there is for something to go wrong.

But the carriers recommended here are very simple, and that simplicity makes them very safe and secure when used properly.

The fabrics used are all regular fabrics that are tested for strength - it's the fabric itself and not sewing that holds the majority of the baby's weight. Wraps are hand-woven to hold a baby and all are tested for very high weight limits. Mei Tai's should have the straps sewn in towards the center of the carrier body and should have several layers of stitching. If you go to www.kozycarrier.com you will see what the owner has to say about how they test theirs for strength - she has a photo of her husband wearing *her* (at over 100 lbs) in one of the carriers and it held up great.

The rings used for ring slings have been designed and manufactured specifically for baby carriers with a high weight limit.

Anyway - your husband really doesn't have any reason to worry, especially if you purchase from a well-known, reputable manufacturer who has received good reviews on www.thebabywearer.com and has been in business for a couple years.

HTH!

[EJM]

PinkConverse: Would I buy a carrier on Ebay and carry my baby in it? No, I wouldn't because I don't know anything about the product or the history. For the major brands I've tried out probably 10-15 and all of them have the straps (I'm referring to MTs) sew down into the fabric with reinforced stitching. With wear it is my responsibility to ensure it is still put together, but isn't it that way with anything I use for/on/with my baby? Yes, some manufacturers have issued recalls of baby carriers, although all products seem to go through that as well. Heck, carseats go through tons of safety checks and Britax issued a problem on the carseat I dropped $300 on. If he is that concerned, buy one on Ebay and another of the major brands and compare the two. I would guess you might find some differences in quality, maybe he would feel better about it then after seeing the differences. BTW, most WAHMs if they know anything about the carrier business carry insurance on their products.

Baby Center sells tons of slings, but if your DH means actual brick and mortar stores -- they do exist. I just walked past one about 30 minutes ago that sells about 10 brands of baby carriers and slings.

[Kristen78]

HELP!

I may be WAY too late here, but I am thinking of getting some sort of sling. My DD is 13 months old, she is very petite, about 18.5 lbs. She gets really fussy about being in her stroller for any period of time when we are out shopping. So I find myself having to hold her AND steer a stroller! I was thinking it might be nice to have a sling so I can nix the stroller on short (1 hr trips to the mall). But I dont know if I am too late to get one. Is she too old? She doesnt walk yet. I guess if worse comes to worse I just get to use it for my next baby.

Also, I dont want something with lots of material, I dont see myself with a ring sling. But I saw a Hotsling today and it looked like it might do the trick.

Can anyone offer me some advice or tell me what might work for me?

I have a baby bjorn, but s not really that comfy and I dont think my DD likes it that much.

[snowzilla]

Kristen78, a hotsling (or any similar type carrier, not by that brand name) would be a perfect first sling for you. At her age, a hip carry in that type of sling will be easy, no difficult learning curve, and it isn't an expensive carrier to get into. I still keep my hotsling in the car, and use it with DD, who is now 16 months old, once in a while.

[2girls]

My dd weights about 15lbs and is only 5 m/o. She won't stay in the stroller for very long either so I bring my peanut shell sling along to the mall with me and it weights nearly nothing and small enough to throw into my purse. In fact, we went to the mall with our 2 kids today and brought our double stroller but being that I'm a mom and know my kids so well, I threw my sling in my purse. Sure enough, 10 minutes into our x-mas shopping, my daughter started to fuss. I have to say that the peanut shell is a pretty comfy sling but as with most slings and carriers, the weight of the baby gets uncomfortable. I can tolerate about 45 minutes across one shoulder before I have to switch shoulders. The wee boutique online http://www.theweeboutique.com/pages/peanutshell.php is where I got my sling and I want to say that I paid $40. The microfleece is way more comfy than the cotton. I highly recommend the fleece as it is also lighter and smaller. I have the cotton and fleece and I don't even use the cotton anymore. Good luck!

[mrstim]

Just showing off my newest carrier!

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d43/amrstim/DSCF1705.jpg

this is one of first wrapping jobs I've ever attempted, so it's a little rough, but anyway!

And...Here's our Kozy!
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d43/amrstim/DSCF1701.jpg

[Sevilla]

Oooh, Turquoise Waves is so pretty!!!! And the Kozy looks great on you guys too :). I'm loving my wraps these days, i use one in a back carry for DS to nap each day. i've got an Inka Storch and a Blueberry BB Slen. (and a blackberry bb slen for DH, i'm going to teach him how to wrap over Christmas. Thus far he's only a ring sling and mei tai guy).

[LRL]

Mrstim- Pretty! I keep thinking that a waves would look really good on us too! I am a Hopp girl, but everyone says that waves are pretty supportive. Now to convince DH that I need a new carrier. :p

Sevilla- I was thinking about buying a blackberry BB slen for DH to wrap with- but I havn't had the best of luck getting him to try MT's yet (not to mention my silk/brocade RS's! :rolleyes: HA!). Wrapping is definitely a step up for a guy IMO! Good luck teaching your DH!

[Rico'sAlice]

Hello!!
I am so excited about all the different style carriers. I think that half the reason I'm having a baby is just to be able to buy slings and stuff.

Anyway, I just ordered my first wrap! I got a Didy Indio in Terra, 40%wool. Some people don't seem to love the color, but I really wanted something pretty neutral and got a good deal from another mama.
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/Alice_Esteves/bigterraindio.jpghttp://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h229/Alice_Esteves/TerraWoolIndio3.jpg


And I've registered for a GypsyMama Waterwrap
http://www.gypsymama.com/shop/proddetail.php?prod=water
and a BaliBaby Breeze, http://www.gypsymama.com/shop/breeze.htmso that I have a cool wrap for the summer.

[SD601]

mrstim, is that aqua waves? It's gorgeous! What size is it?

sevilla, if he can do a back carry in the MT, he shouldn't have a problem with a FWCC. That's the only carry Tim can do on his own, only he hates the bbslen and our old hopps because they were too wide. He prefers didy's...not that I can blame him! I'm getting Tobi, soon....hopefully, he'll like that one!

Rico'sAlice, I think that Terra indio is gorgeous, a perfect neutral. My DH loves our indio, even though I call it a tablecloth. I've also had the GMWW, which I really enjoyed...until my big toddler got a bit too heavy. Still, it was great for the pool/shower.

Well, I've been on a MT kick lately...somehow, 16-month-old DS squirms his way out of wraps, so I've sold off some stuff. Now I'm going to try a few of the newer MT versions, like the M.O.M Tai and doodlebug. But I still can't help but admire these gorgeous carriers!

Laura

[SD601]

Forgot to mention to LRL...my Dh is excited to get a custom sports MT (Padres and Chargers) for himself. I'm going to do that soon. Maybe your DH would be more interested in that. I know my DH hates wearing anything too girly...he wouldn't wear my first wrap, ER Christine, out in public ;) .

[mrstim]

Sevilla - thanks! :) It's Aqua Waves - it's BEAUTIFUL in person.

LRL - thankfully I traded my other indio for it, so I didnt have to convince dh of anything! :)

Rico - OH, Didy's are so much fun and addictive!!

Laura - it's a size 5 AW. I have the tails in the back, so you can't see how long it is! My other Didy is a 7 - SO much material!!

[SD601]

See mrstim, I thought I wanted silver waves, but now aqua is calling my name. Hmmm...