

“Legs should never be dangling on the sides.”Īt first glance, wraps and slings can be slightly intimidating, especially when compared to more structured baby carriers or backpacks.

M-position means, thighs spread over parent’s body, hips bent a little, so the knees are slightly higher than the buttocks with thighs supported,” Dr. “The natural clinging position for infants is the M-position, and this is the recommended position to wear a baby. Orajiaka explains that when worn properly, wraps and slings can “actually help with development and decrease hip dysplasia” and “does not negatively affect hip development.” “If possible, it’s best to take your baby with you while shopping for the carrier to make sure it’s their size, and the leg holes are not too small for them to fall out,” she says, adding to also “check for any recalls before purchase.”ĭr. Orajiaka recommends doing a try-on in-store, if possible, to find that proper fit. Along with keeping your own sizing in mind, you also want to be mindful of how well your little one fits into the wrap or sling most have weight limits. Just like when you purchase clothes, it's important to find a wrap or sling that fits your body comfortably. “Some premature babies do not have enough muscle strength to keep their airway open in an unsupported position, so be cautious,” she warns. Lightweight materials like 100% cotton or airy linen can keep you cooler while baby-wearing.īefore you decide to get close, however, talk with your baby’s pediatrician to ensure baby-wearing is safe for your child, recommends Dr. Opting for a wrap or sling that allows for air to flow easily will help keep you and your baby cool and comfortable while you're using the sling or wrap. Holding your little one close to you for an extended period of time can really crank up the body heat. What to Look for in Baby Wraps and Slings Breathability We also consulted with Nkeiruka Orajiaka, MD, board-certified pediatrician, public health physician in Columbus, Ohio, and member of buybuyBABY Parenting Pros, for safety recommendations while reviewing guidance from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. We considered design, features, fit, price, ease of cleaning, material, and safety when deciding our picks. We chose the best baby wraps and slings by researching reviews from customers and competitors and examining the features of dozens of baby wraps and slings on the market. How We Selected the Best Baby Wraps and Slings

Orajiaka's advice in mind while looking at the design, fit, and materials of the baby wraps and slings on the market to make this list.
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A family physician on our Review Board reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy and integrity around baby wraps and slings and how to evaluate their features. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends safe baby-wearing for soothing, bonding, and nurturing a baby’s development. “People love kids, but while wearing your baby, they are less likely to come close enough to touch your little one,” she explains. "But be sure you are wearing them the right way and for the right chores to ensure safety." Nkeiruka Orajiaka, MD, board-certified pediatrician, public health physician in Columbus, Ohio, and member of buybuyBABY's Parenting Pros, tells Verywell Family that in addition to soothing a crying infant, baby-wearing keeps your little one safe from unwanted visitors. Seriously, a wrap or sling is a must-have item that belongs on every parent’s baby registry! They make skin-to-skin bonding time easier, allow you to carry a fussy baby (and sometimes even a toddler!) around hands-free, make breastfeeding simpler, and give you a break when you need to hold an infant and simultaneously keep other kids entertained. Baby wraps and slings have so many benefits for parents and caregivers.
