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