The Art of Babywearing – Pouch and Ring Sling Basics
When parents first start talking baby carriers, it’s easy to understand why they might get confused. Many parents consider the most basic of all baby carriers to be the baby sling, but what exactly is meant by this term? There are ring slings and pouch slings, and considering ring slings have pouches and pouches are often called slings…well, I think you can see why someone might become overwhelmed! Let’s start by defining what we mean by the terms baby sling, pouches and ring slings.
What is a Baby Sling?
The Wikipedia encyclopedia’s definition of a baby sling is a piece of cloth that “supports an infant or child from a caregivers’ body”. So in actuality, any fabric that is used to carry a baby can be considered a baby carrier or “baby sling”. However, the term “baby sling” has really become synonymous with pouch slings and ring slings – a baby carrier that is used over only one-shoulder with a “pocket” that baby is supported in.
Pouch slings and ring slings are twists on traditional wraparound baby carriers. A short wrap can be transformed when the ends are sewn together or rings are added for a modern spin on this age-old carrying method.
Difference between Pouches and Ring Slings
A pouch sling is a single, continuous tube of fabric whereas a ring sling is a long piece of fabric with rings sewn onto one end. The tail, or opposite end of the fabric, is then threaded through the rings. The basic anatomy of both pouch slings and ring slings is similar. Both types of slings have a “pouch” which is essentially a pocket where baby is placed. They both are worn over one shoulder, and caregivers will be able to carry their baby in multiple positions from birth to toddler in both styles of slings.
While a main difference between a pouch and a ring sling is the addition of rings sewn into the latter, this leads to another very notable difference – adjustability.
Pouch Slings
A standard pouch sling does not have the ability to adjust to various sizes. This means that sizing is essential for the comfort of the wearer. A pouch sling that is sized too large will hang low causing strain on the back and shoulders of the wearer. A sling that is too small could make for a much more difficult time getting baby in and out of the baby sling, and could also be uncomfortable as baby grows. However, when sized correctly, a pouch sling is one of the easiest types of baby carriers you’ll find. It’s difficult to go wrong with a well-fitted pouch. With no belts, loops, snaps, rings or buckles, you can toss a pouch sling over your shoulder, slide your little one into the pocket folds and you’re on your way.
Ring Slings
Rings on the standard baby sling allow for the adjustment of sizing in this style of baby carrier. The “tail” on a ring sling is the piece of fabric that hangs down from the rings. Pulling down on the tail will tighten the sling, bringing baby higher. Alternately, you can loosen this tail to bring baby to a lower position. These quick and easy adjustments make a ring sling one of the most popular baby carriers for a mother that plans to nurse her baby. The adjustability allows a mother to provide an infant with easy access to the breast, and then the baby sling can be re-adjusted quickly when their nursling is done.
The best ring sling baby carriers are fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit no matter who is wearing the baby. An open tail is not only beautiful, but functional. It can serve many purposes such as a nursing cover-up, sun shade, lightweight blanket and more.
Advantages of Baby Slings:
• Have a short learning curve and most parents find baby slings to be one of the easiest baby carriers to use.
• Provides a swaddled feeling for baby making the transition from snug security of womb to new environment an easier one.
• Allows for hands-free, discreet breastfeeding and easy access to breast for newborns that nurse frequently.
• Easy on and easy off make a baby sling perfect for a fussy baby or one that likes to be up & down often throughout the day.
• Excellent for newborns and young babies, as well as quick trips with older babies & toddlers.
• Carrier will grow with your child (birth to 35 lbs) and allow for comfortable cradle carry, front carrying or hip carrying.
• Folds flat and very compact for traveling or diaper bag.
• Relatively inexpensive, most parents can find a baby sling at an affordable price.
Disadvantages of Baby Slings:
• Support for a young baby without head control is in cradle position only.
• Sizing is imperative for the most comfort. Ring slings make this easier, but some parents find the rings more difficult to adjust.
• Weight is carried on only one shoulder which can be tiring for longer periods of wearing.
• The asymmetrical weight distribution can make carrying a heavier child more challenging.
• Lack of ergonomic support may be an issue for caregivers with back problems.
• Size of baby will dictate baby’s position in the carrier.
• Less versatile for carrying positions. Back carrying is not as easy to achieve.
The Simplicity of a Sling-Style Baby Carrier
Baby slings are compact, sleek, easy to use, and their simplistic design make them one of the most popular baby carriers. Baby slings are particularly useful for the newborn and young baby stage, as well as for the toddler “up and down” phase – just leave the carrier on and pop your baby in and out throughout the day. Also a favorite baby carrier for nursing mothers, breastfeeding is generally easily accomplished in a sling. This does take patience and practice like any new skill, but once learned, being able to breastfeed in a sling can be extremely liberating for any mother.
A simple baby sling makes a wonderful addition to a baby layette and is always a welcome new baby or shower gift.
WIN IT! Parenting by Nature is giving one T.O.P. reader their choice of in stock pouch or ring sling from their site. Canada and US addresses only please. To enter, leave a comment on this post listing the sling you’ll be choosing if you’re selected as the winner before noon mst on April 5, 2009.
This is part four in a series of guest-written articles by Parenting By Nature’s founder and mother of two, Tamara Champion. For more articles and information visit Babywearing 101 on the Parenting By Nature website or browse their extensive baby carrier selection. You’re sure to find the right baby carrier to suit your individual needs, style and desires! Be sure to come back next week for another of Tamara’s educational features and another chance to win!
CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED
March 30th, 2009 at 3:03 am
EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Slings in sky blue
March 30th, 2009 at 6:30 am
I like the maya wrap ring sling.
March 30th, 2009 at 7:38 am
GREAT article. I’ve only used buckle carriers because slings and wraps confuse me! But I really want to get one for my third baby, who I imagine will be worn more than the others were! I’d choose the Karma Baby Water Sling, because she’s due in late May/early June…and we live in The South. It’s already getting into the 80s, so this sling looks like it’d keep us cooler than most.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:13 am
EllaRoo Mango Sky Blue…it was painful to narrow my choices, but this one just is so beautiful!
March 30th, 2009 at 9:46 am
I’ll go with the Maya Ring Sling! Thanks
March 30th, 2009 at 9:53 am
I am a subscriber.
March 30th, 2009 at 10:50 am
my daughter has a 9 month old and after she gave birth her left hop grew like she has a big balloon in it it is starting to give her pain so she cantcarry the baby she is seeing a dr i think this gift would help her so she can start carring her thanks
March 30th, 2009 at 11:25 am
I’d be choosin’ “Karma Baby Fleece Baby Sling”,
cuz I like the idea it is cozy with fleece!
March 30th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I like teh maya ring sling best in any boy color!
March 30th, 2009 at 1:37 pm
the maya wrap ring sling.
mverno@roadrunner.com
March 30th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Slings in malay. Thank you for the chance to win the sling. It will be put to good use snuggling my little girl. thank you for that chance.
March 30th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
Either sling would be great.
March 30th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
I love the goddess blue celery sling, thanks, great giveaway
yzgirl4[at]verizon[dot]net
March 30th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Oops….I’m sorry! I forgot to include what sling I’d like…I’d love the EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Sling.
Sooo…if you want to delete my first comment go ahead! I’d do it, but I don’t think I can…at least I can’t see how to do it anywhere…
March 30th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Tokyo.
March 30th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
I’d love to win the Maya Wrap Ring Sling in Brown Stripe!
March 30th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
I’m a subscriber
March 30th, 2009 at 9:33 pm
I like the Spring Green Maya Wrap Sling
Thanks
March 30th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
We’re beach bums, I like the Karma baby water sling!
March 30th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Pouch
March 30th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
i’d get the blue celery in earth!
autumn398 (at) yahoo.com
March 30th, 2009 at 11:55 pm
Blue Celery Baby Sling/Wrap Hybrid looks to have some cool options. I am wondering if it can be used for an older baby of 14 months. If not the Karma Baby Water Slings would be ideal for the shower or water park. Can older children go in this one also? I have two boys one is just about 14 months and the other is almost 4 years old. I’m an older mother new to these awesome things.
Michelle S. in Canada
March 31st, 2009 at 12:08 am
Tough choice. I’d get either the Ellaroo Mango Sky blue or the Maya Wrap sling in Spring Green.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:33 am
The UpMama Raspberry is gorgeous!
March 31st, 2009 at 9:35 am
I am a subscriber.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:58 am
I would pick the UpMama Raspberry.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:04 am
Love the blue celery in earth
March 31st, 2009 at 11:11 am
my favorite is the EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Sling in EllaRoo Mango Sky Blue
March 31st, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Ok I don’t know if this one is an option but the Upmama Hybrid Baby Sling is amazing. Gorgous fabric and style. I would take anyone..Thanks.
March 31st, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Love the Ella Roo Cotton Organic Mango Stone Red sling
gkstratos@yahoo.com
March 31st, 2009 at 10:20 pm
My favorite is the Maya Wrap Baby Ring Sling. Thanks for the giveaway!
March 31st, 2009 at 10:31 pm
I am so psyched that they have this product – karma baby water sling. My husband was just commenting that he wished there was a sling we could use in the shower. I sooo hope we win this! Thanks! thebubbledies(at)gmail(dot)com
April 1st, 2009 at 12:46 pm
i’m choosing the EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Sling
April 1st, 2009 at 2:49 pm
EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Sling in Brasilia. Thanks!
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:43 am
I love the Maya Wrap Sling in Aqua Stripe
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
I really love the Maya Wrap Baby Ring Sling in Multi-Bright. Oh, or the EllaRoo Mango Stone Red – beautiful! ok, I’d probably choose the Ellaroo Mango Stone Red…depending on my mood that day of course!
I’ve always wanted to try a ring sling, thanks!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
I am an email subscriber, thanks
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Your button is on my sidebar, thanks again!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
tweet tweet: http://twitter.com/idahojill/status/1440362196
thanks!
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Maya wrap baby ring sling looks sooo comfortable and stylish
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm
I can’t decide between the EllaRoo Mango Sky Blue and the Maya Deep Plum. I’d have to talk to someone to see which would suit me better
) Thanks for the chance to win this, I’ve always wanted to try one of these carriers.
April 3rd, 2009 at 3:18 am
I’m torn between the Blue Celery Baby Sling/Wrap Hybrid in night and the Maya Wrap Baby Ring Slings in blue purple … I’ll say the blue celery. I think.
April 3rd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
I like the Upmama Sling in Sand Plus or the Blue Celery Earth XL. Thanks for the great giveaway!
April 3rd, 2009 at 3:56 pm
I really like the Hotsling in the Tokyo print!
April 3rd, 2009 at 11:59 pm
maya
April 4th, 2009 at 9:17 am
I would choose the Maya Wrap in solid natural (#67). Thanks for the chance to win!
April 4th, 2009 at 10:15 am
The UpMama Raspberry
April 4th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
My favorite is the EllaRoo Mango in Sky Blue.
April 4th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
I would choose the EllaRoo Mango Sky Blue.
April 4th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
I would like to try the Tokyo Hotsling!
April 4th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
EllaRoo cotton organic baby sling.
April 4th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
I really like the Maya ring sling in chocolate brown! Super!
sherri419 at gmail dot com
April 4th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
My favorite is the Hotslings Baby Slings in Black Ecrus Sateen Print. Thanks for this amazing giveaway.
April 4th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
I like the Deep Plum (#24)
April 4th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
I really like the UpMama Chocolate ring sling! Awesome giveaway!
April 5th, 2009 at 3:04 am
My favorite is the The Blue Celery Baby Sling (baby sling and wrap option – all in one) – Goddess (Undyed). Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this giveaway!
April 5th, 2009 at 6:01 am
I love the EllaRoo Malay sling!
April 5th, 2009 at 8:08 am
I would have to choose the Karma Baby Fleece
Lavender/Charcoal, in size Large if I were to win. They look so cozy, and I live in the cold part of the country, so will help keep little one warm.
April 5th, 2009 at 8:36 am
I like the Maya wrap sling but wonder how safe it is when having to bend over suddenly
April 5th, 2009 at 8:50 am
The maya sling is versatile and “grows” with the child.
April 5th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I love the Blue Celery Baby Sling/Wrap Hybrid in grey
April 5th, 2009 at 9:33 am
My favorite is the EllaRoo Brasilia ring sling!
April 5th, 2009 at 9:42 am
I love the Upmama Hybrid Baby Slings in UpMama Chocolate. Very chic! Thanks.
April 5th, 2009 at 10:05 am
I like the Maya Wrap Baby Ring Sling.
April 5th, 2009 at 10:27 am
The Blue Celery Baby Sling/Wrap Hybrid is my favorite!
April 5th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
EllaRoo Cotton Organic Baby Sling in BRASILIA
April 5th, 2009 at 4:30 pm
I’d love to win the Maya Wrap Ring Sling in Brown Stripe! its gorgeous
April 5th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
I love the Maya Wrap ring Sling! Thanks for the chance!!
mogrill@comcast.net