When Riley was a small baby, I mostly transported him from one place to another in his carseat. When we were at home, he spent a lot of time hanging out in a bouncy seat or on the floor. On the few occasions I put him in a carrier, I used a BabyBjörn—although I didn’t do that until he was a little older, mostly because I was paranoid of him being all squished down in the canvas (I liked it better when he was big enough to peep over the top).
As I look ahead to having a new baby in the house next February, I’m guessing I’m going to want to carry him more often. Mostly because I need to be more mobile this time, since I’ll also be wrangling a toddler—a toddler, by the way, who probably can’t be trusted to leave a sleeping child alone in their bouncy seat, or avoid trampling a floor-bound baby.
I’ll also need to run more errands than I did last time, and every outing will involve not one but TWO children (hey, mind if I sort of freak out about that for a second? OH MY GOD OH MY GOD PANIC PANIC SEND MOOD STABILIZERS AIIEEEE . . . okay, thanks), so I’m thinking I’ll need a good carrying system or three.
I still have the BabyBjörn, but I’m wondering about some of the other options out there. The sling/pouch/wrap/carrier market seems to be a thriving business, and the choices are many. Some of the top contenders I’ve found:
The Maya Wrap. Looks sort of complicated to me, but I’ve heard good things about this brand. Unfortunately, Maya Wrap seems to have had some trouble with an aluminum ring on one of their products.
The Moby Wrap. Another wrap that looks like you have to be an origami master to figure it out, but I’ve never tried one—maybe it’s a lot easier than it seems?
The Mei Tai Deluxe. It’s a carrier and a wrap combined? Or something? I’m not sure how it works, but it looks sort of cool. In a strait-jackety way.
The Zolowear Cotton Sling. This style seems to be capable of doubling as a fancy pashmina for that last-minute black tie event you need to take your nursing baby to. It’s awfully pretty, but are you really supposed to put a real live pooping/barfing/drooling child in it?
The Ergo Carrier. This is a bit like the Bjorn, but it looks like you can carry a small baby sideways instead of squashed flat against your chest, which appeals to me. It sure is expensive, though.
What say you all? Have you had experience with a particular carrier that helped you get through the crazy, early days of babyhood?
Woo, who wants assvice from a non-mom? You DO!??! Fantastic.
I think the sling/wrap doodads are awesome, and the mamas I know swear by them. (Of course, they are the same ones who shriek “Bjorns are evil! Hip dysplasia! Doom! Crippled baby!”) But the ones you have pictured just seem to have So. Much. Fabric. So much to get crusty and nasty and yuck. When I lived in NYC, I saw plenty of slings without the gigantic swath of extra fabric. Hells bells, get whatever is easiest for you and easiest to maneuver around when you are chasing after Riley.
missbanshee | October 5th, 2007 at 5:10 am
My wee son is 18 months old, and when he was younger, I carried him almost constantly — first in a simple ring sling (like the Maya wrap, I guess, but not one of their brand) and then when he got too heavy (it pulled me too far to one side) I got the Ergo and LOVED it. Expensive, yes. But it put all his weight on my hips, not my back, and so I was able to keep carrying him until he hit 25 pounds.
Now, thank God, he walks.
I got the Ergo over a few others because it was most comfortable for me and because I have hip problems and I had heard that some other carriers which carry the baby by his / her crotch can cause that. I’m not sure it’s true, but I wasn’t prepared to take chances. I’d recommend finding a store that carries several varieties and trying them on … that’s what I did, and it was a good way to choose. That way you get what fits your body. And plus you won’t end up with something you can remember how to put on (some of them look so complex!)
Jeannie | October 5th, 2007 at 5:20 am
The Peanut Shell. You can find it online, and in some high(er) end kid stores. They run about $50.00, which isn’t bad considering they are the best sling I’ve ever found. The details:
-They don’t have rings, so they feel and are much more stable and secure than other slings. Plus, no frantic adjusting all the time.
-The slings hold up to 36 pounds, so my toddler can go in the sling for a long day out. She LOVES it.
-They come in all sorts of beautiful fabric. I’ve gone from looking like a hippy mom to a stylish on the go mom, all because of one sling!
-Handy pocket and key ring.
-Very well made.
Honestly, I can’t say enough about there wonderful slings. I’ve tried tons of slings both with my daughter and the day care kids, and this one is the very, very best. It has the longest life span, from newborn to toddler, is the safest and highest quality I’ve come across, and the style! Oh, if only my wardrobe were so fashionable…
Nona | October 5th, 2007 at 12:28 pm
I have a friend that makes these sorts of things. she doesnt sell them too often but she makes them all the time for her kids. i can put you in touch if you like!
jen | October 5th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
I have a knock-off Bjorn and it KILLS my shoulders for anything more than a brief walk (baby is 17.5 lbs). I bought a Mei Tai and it was really comfortable, but baby can only face inwards (when wearing on front) and he hated that - scream scream scream! So I returned it. I may consider the Ergo again, or the one that a lot of people like is the Beco carrier (but it’s $130 - ouch).
I agree with the other poster - see if you can go to a store and try them on (either now or after the baby is born), as that’s really the best.
Oh, we also had a sling like the first one you showed, and it seemed as if the baby was completely lost in it (user error I am quite sure).
Sarah | October 5th, 2007 at 1:25 pm
I love the Ergo on my back for walking the dogs and longer hikes. For shorter, more hurried outings I’ve really relied on the Hip Hammock. E’s gone from baby to 20lb toddler in it (yes she’s teeny) and it’s still comfortable. I did three hours in it the other day.
Also..BIG plus…her dad will happily wear either of them.
Jo | October 5th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
I went through several slings, a mei tai, and three baby bjorns until I found the Ergo. I love it. It was the only one that didn’t kill my back. There is the Beco Baby Carrier (http://www.becobabycarrier.com/) which is just like the Ergo, but more stylish.
hello insomnia | October 5th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
I bought a Maya wrap. I thought I would love it, but I struggled with it. The fabric was always getting bunched up, and then it was always pulling on my shoulder. Not very comfortable. Maybe for a newborn but carrying the baby in that picture, I don’t think so!
On the other hand, love the Ergo. The best feature is the waistband. It sits low on your hips so the weight is on your hips, not on your back - up like a backpacking pack. This is really the way to go if you are going to carry the baby for more than 15 minutes. Otherwise your back is going to kill you! You can use a front, side or back carry. When the baby is little, you need the infant insert which, I admit, is inconvenient. But once you don’t need that, it is brilliant! Plus JB can use it too.
My thought would be use the bjorn when the baby is little. Then at 4 to 5 months look into the ergo.
Maria | October 5th, 2007 at 2:14 pm
[...] unknown wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptWhen Riley was a small baby, I mostly transported him from one place to another in his carseat. When we were at home, he spent a lot of time hanging out in a bouncy seat or on the floor. On the few occasions I put him in a carrier, … [...]
10millionin3years.com » Looking for a few good baby carriers | October 5th, 2007 at 3:11 pm
I have the Moby Wrap and the Ergo, and I love them both, but for different reasons. The Moby Wrap I used when my son was small, it was perfect for when he was still in that folded up position, and I could wrap him tightly against me and not worry about him. Yes, it’s a lot of material, but it becomes pretty easy to figure out and he loved being in that thing, it was like a little cocoon for him.
Now that he is bigger I use the Ergo and I LOVE it. I have the Bjorn too (yes, I had a bit of an obsession with carriers), but the Ergo puts it to shame. I love the Ergo, and it is really versatile, which is great. Plus, like others have said - less back pain with the Ergo, which I highly need. Good luck! Hope you find a carrier you love!
Amy | October 5th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
More advice from a non-mom! Awesome! But we’re about to start trying, and I’ve been obsessed with future motherhood for quite a while and have already done a lot of “product research.” (Good God, somebody kill me now.) ANYWAY, I’m planning on the Peanut Shell, based on everything I’ve read. Which was a lot. Sigh. The End.
L | October 5th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
Frankly, I’ve found the best baby carrier in the world to be my husband. But barring one of those…
A friend of mine sent me a Mobi wrap. I thought it was beautiful and it worked wonderfully - as long as my husband was there to secure the 100 feet of fabric around me. The day I tried to do it by myself I felt like I was on a comedy skit - nothing but me getting uselessly tangled in yards and yards of fabric. I haven’t used it since. My son LOVES the Baby Bjorn and you know how it is - if baby’s happy, mommy’s happy. So although the fabrics & styles of some of the new slings are quite chic, at the end of the day I forgo fashion for sanity.
travelmom | October 5th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
Baby Bjorn is the best - the BEST! My husband wore it too - and that is the only contraption out all the discussed that a man could possibly get away with. The others are all so darn granola-looking, but you don’t seem like that type…
Jenny | October 5th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
I have the Moby wrap and the Ergo. I used the Moby wrap when my son was smaller and still scrunchy. He was also born in February and it covered him, and I felt like it insulated him a little bit. But, by three or four weeks I was only using the Ergo with the infant insert. It’s so much more convenient for me to put on and more comfortable. In the Moby he would squirm and move to the point where I’d have to take him out and retie it - not very convenient.
Now that he’s bigger (7 mos., 22 lbs), the Ergo rocks my world and I never use the Moby. I’ve carried him for hours in it without any soreness or tiredness. And putting it on and off is so easy. My husband thinks it’s great, too - and he would never use the Moby.
Erin | October 5th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
I reviewed my baby carriers last spring here: http://sandblower.blogspot.com/2007/04/why-yes-dr-sears-id-love-some-more-of.html
I really suggest getting a fleece pouch since you are having a winter baby. It’s really easy to use one, it will keep baby cozy, and the snug fit is like swaddling. I think our daughter lived in one for the first couple years of her life. We did the one from Kangaroo Korner because the adjustability meant that we could share the same one.
Anonymous | October 5th, 2007 at 7:44 pm
I’m the comment right above. I didn’t mean to comment anonymously. I got distracted and walked away and then hit send and realized that I hadn’t filled in my info.
Elizabeth | October 5th, 2007 at 7:45 pm
while you didn’t mention it, i love our hotsling. in fact, we didn’t get it until this past july when my daughter was already 13 months old. we use it ALL THE TIME and the only regret that i have, is that i didn’t buy it a year prior… i agree with the PP, all those slings above has so much extra fabric, it just seems like it would get in the way or get dirty or something. the hotsling is like the peanut shell, one size, quick pop on, so easy and fast! and it rolls up to nothing so you can just have it in the car or purse or diaper bag ‘just in case’ and it barely takes up any room!
i had the ultimate baby wrap which is alot like the moby wrap and holy hell, sure if she wasn’t crying and i had 5 minutes to wrap myself up, sure, of course then i’d overheat with the 5 layers and warm little baby on me… and then, doing it in public? the ties are all over the floor/parking lot, GROSS!
hotsling (or peanut shell), that’s my recommendation!
cori w | October 5th, 2007 at 7:46 pm
With my first I used the baby bjorn which hurt my back and shoulders. I eventually switched to the Cuddly Wrap, similar to the Moby Wrap when he was 6 months old. It is all I have used since my second was born 8 weeks ago. It takes a few tries to figure out how to wrap it, but it is really comfortable and easy on the back/shoulders. Since it supports the baby’s head and neck, you can use it from birth on.
My older one is 18 months old now, so I use the wrap all the time… the website is http://www.peapodcreations.ca. It’s a Canadian product but I think they ship to the States.
Melanie | October 5th, 2007 at 7:51 pm
We use a Mei Tai and LOVE it. Husband uses it too. The ring slings were tricker to work and still hurt my back. Bjorns are bad for both your back and the baby.
Ergos are sort of like Mei Tais but more constructed, easier to put on. You’re really worried about the price when you have a 700 dollar STROLLER?! Dude, get the ergo. You’ll love it and so will your man. -j
jennyg | October 5th, 2007 at 7:51 pm
Way to not close my tag. Since comments are moderated, you can submit this one instead of the first one!
One thing you missed. Pocket pouches. A la Hotslings and Peekaboo Pouches. I had a peekaboo and my son ADORED it. Your carrying options are a little more limited than with the more complicated wraps, and it’s not as adjustable as ring slings (there are several options of those other than the Maya), but they are virtually pregnant-brain proof.
That said, I also really LOVED the moby wrap, but it is definitely complicated. Really comfortable, though.
The Ergo is what I’m getting this time, in leiu of a double-stroller. I’ll have kid 1 walking or in the stroller and kid 2 in the ergo. I figure it’s a good compromise. It’s not that much more than the good bjorn, either, is it? Like $20 more?
Anyway, /novel.
Mandie | October 5th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
I bought a Zolowear sling and I love it! I have a 2 1/2 year old and a 6 month old (two boys), yup, I’m crazy too! We went shopping this morning and it went awesome, partly due to the sling. I had Snugli carrier for my first son and although it worked, it always felt like he was just an appendage sticking out there unsecure with legs a danglin’. Getting him in and out on my own was tough too. With my sling, I just throw it over my shoulder, open the pouch and slide him in. I adjust the outside of the pouch my pulling it tight and that’s it. I was able to put my keys, his socks, my cell and his pacifier in the pocket for easy access. I would suggest trying one on first and let them demonstrate how to use it. I chose the Zolowear b/c it was important for me to be able to use it easily without anyone’s help. Plus, I needed to feel like he was on secure enough so I could pick up my older son and load him into shopping carts or vehicle. They can be carried so many different ways, I can’t wait to wear him on my hip. I didn’t buy a pretty one, I bought one of their mesh slings. I’m down here in this TX heat and I wanted to be able to go into the pool with him in his sling, which is also a very cool feature.
Michelle | October 5th, 2007 at 7:57 pm
of your options, i like the maya sling for newborns and the ergo shortly thereafter. but don’t get an ergo! get a beco: not made in china plus many way cuter designs!
http://www.becobabycarrier.com/
i used a hotsling type made in portland once past the maya phase, but once i discovered the ergo-types, wished like crazy i’d discovered them early enough to be worth getting.
robin j. | October 5th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Mia still loves the Ergo, but it doesn’t work very well for nursing so I’m in the market for something new myself. I like it because you can wear it front or back, so you can theoretically cook dinner with a baby in it without frying said baby in oil.
Beth | October 5th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
I haven’t got any children so my opinion doesn’t count for much, but I really like the look of GorgeousBaby’s slings.
Sarah | October 5th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
I really like the Ergo, though for a tiny baby I would probably go with a wrap (the Ergo wasn’t easy to nurse in until she was about 5 months old). I’m going to be totally and completely honest here. Wraps look hard. They look confusing. But if you can do all of the other difficult baby stuff (installing the car seat, putting together a crib), you have put forth WAY more effort than you’ll ever have to for wrapping. You have to follow directions step by step once or twice, then it will make sense and you’ll be doing it like it’s second nature.
Leah | October 5th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
I got a Hotsling and I liked it, but the sizing is weird, plus I wanted my husband to be able to use it too and there is a substantial size difference, so we ended up getting a Mamma’s Milk Adjustable Pouch. We both loved it, and it could be easily adjusted for bigger/smaller people (you, dad or the growing kid.)
BRash | October 5th, 2007 at 8:57 pm
I actual have experience with the Bjorn, Moby Wrap, and Ergo. I lived in NYC when Samantha was young so I used these things a lot. If you were going to pick one I’d pick the Ergo. I love it and still use it and Sam is 21 months old. You can use it in the frot, side, or back and is very comfortable. The moby is a little complicated, but comfortable, I only used it when Sam was very little. The Bjorn as you know is easy and great for public transportation, if you’ll be doing that often. The Ergo is very easy to use, and comfy, and it seems like you can use it for the longest amount of time. Hope this helps, I read your other blogs, and like them, Riley is just so cute.
Taryn | October 5th, 2007 at 9:11 pm
since you are in the seattle area, try going to one of the babywearing classes at gracewinds in ballard. they have lots of different sling types and you can try them on. if you don’t want to go on one of their scheduled days, they have a whole book of slings and wraps with all the pros and cons.
i like the moby wrap, it is much easier than i thought it would be. we have a red castle/baby bjorn type thing that i use occasionally around the house that he seems to like (ie; falls asleep in). i bought the hotsling thinking that it would be easy but he just seems to small for it still (at 6 wks, 10 lbs) his head gets all scrunched up and he hates it so we haven’t used it at all. i will probably try again when he is a little bigger.
anatomist | October 5th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
I’m one of those baby-wearing mamas bringing up “hip dysplasia” regarding the Baby Bjorn. Unfortunately, they are popular because of marketing and the fact that everyone seems to be wearing one, not because they are the best for the baby. I use a wrap carrier (I have an Ellaroo because woven carriers can carry heavier kids than the stretchy T-shirt fabric kinds and my last baby was an ELEPHANT), and even though some of the carries look similar, the baby’s weight is actually much better distributed across their legs, butt and crotch as opposed to hanging from the base of their spine in the Bjorn.
I didn’t have a lot of luck with a ringsling when K was tiny because she was just so long, but once she could hold her head up it was great. The wrap is brilliant for when you want to wear the baby for a long time as it distributes the weight on you very broadly as well, but the ringsling just whips over your head in seconds and is really easy to adjust once you get the hang of it. Don’t get one with padded edges (”rails”) as they are harder to adjust properly. I have a Maya wrap as well.
If you do have access to babywearing classes (*envy*) I very strongly recommend taking advantage of them. There is just so much variety out there and something like a wrap - which is incredibly versatile precisely because of its simplicity - is much easier to figure out when you have someone to show you how to use it. Failing that, there are heaps of videos on the net. My personal favourite site for finding instructions on various carries is http://www.mamatoto.org, but there’s also http://www.thebabywearer.com/ for more information on babywearing than anyone could possibly get through in one lifetime *g*
Liz in Australia | October 5th, 2007 at 9:44 pm
Go for the Moby wrap. It IS a bit complicated, but has excellent instructions that break it down and make it SIMPLE. After a few times, you’ll be a pro. They also make this is really pretty colors/fabrics.
We also have the Nojo sling, but we never got the hang of it. We used it more when our twins were older- like young toddlers and then carired them on our hips with it…
Good luck!
Marie Green | October 5th, 2007 at 9:47 pm
ERGO!
That being said, I am not a mother but have carried kids around in several different carriers and wraps, and the Ergo seemed to be the most comfy for the kid and the one doing the carrying. I like that the Ergo can be used front and back and also has a little flap you can attach to the straps should your baby need shade or if older and fall asleep, keeps thier head from bouncing around. Genius!
And it is designed like a backpacking pack, where the weight is carried at your hips mostly instead of killing the shoulders.
serror | October 5th, 2007 at 9:56 pm
I have the Maya Wrap pouch which is AWESOME. There’s no ring and no complications. You just zip and button where it fits you best and leave it alone. Just put it on, put the baby in and go. So easy.
The Mei Tai is awesome for when the baby is 6 months or older when you can put the baby or even put Riley on your back while you do whatever you have to do. It has made doing chores sooo much easier for me while my clingy toddler is happy to be near me. =)
Keri | October 5th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Ditto Amy and Erin. I used the Moby wrap when Owen was small, and now I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Ergo.
I have friends who have used some of the slings that other people have mentioned (that don’t have quite so much fabric) but I had back problems after my pregnancy, and I couldn’t do the one shoulder thing for very long. Both the Moby wrap and the Ergo use both shoulders (and hips) so the weight is much more distributed.
Felicia | October 5th, 2007 at 11:10 pm
I actually suggest getting a few from online and then trying them out and returning which ones you don’t like. My son LOVED his ring sling (sort of like the maya, but with less fabric–I think it’s called the over the shoulder baby holder?), and it was the only thing that calmed him, but when I lent it to my friend, her daughter screamed like a banshee in it. I didn’t like the non-adjustable ones (like the peanut shell), because while I”m tall, I have no shoulders and had to pull it tight to feel secure. I wouldn’t like the option of not being able to tighten/loosen. One sling worked for both me and my husband as well for this reason. But I have friends who hated the adjustability, thinking it made it feel less secure. So, anyway, it seems like you have a ton of good suggestions, so if you have a little expendable income and time, buy three or four, try them out and return the ones that don’t work.
Anonymous | October 5th, 2007 at 11:30 pm
oops, that’s me as anonymous above.
shal | October 5th, 2007 at 11:31 pm
Echoing the chorus about the ergo. LOVE it. We started using it when Zoe was about (*searching foggy memory bank*) 8 months and we still use it (going on 18 months). It does not hurt my back or shoulders like the baby bjorn did.
Before the ergo, I swore by the new native sling. Easy to nurse in. Easy to lay her down once she had fallen asleep. Easy to cook dinner with her right there. Easy to pace the house trying to get her to sleep while crying my eyes out….. you get the idea.
Jenna | October 6th, 2007 at 12:14 am
I love me my HOT SLING. Like the Peanut Shell it’s just one loop of fabric - no miles of fabric to wind or rings to adjust. When M was bity she slept in it sideways and during maternity leave she was in it at least 2-3 hours a day - we went for walks, I did laundry, I knit. It takes about 2 seconds to put on and get her settled.
Around 6 months it was magic for getting through that “witching hour” in the evenings and still feeling like I could do things like eat dinner.
Now, at 13 months, she still LOVES it and we keep it rolled up in the diaper bag, strollers aren’t always practical and this distributes the weight so I can carry her longer. I have a basic black one and have used it 100s of times. Can’t say enough about it.
We also have a Bjorn, which my hubby prefers, but the Hot Sling is my go-to carrier.
ikate | October 6th, 2007 at 12:23 am
Have you been in my brain? I’ve been obsessing over what kind of carrying contraption to get and this advice is fabulous!
I was planning on doing the Moby/ergo and now it’s 100% decided.
Thanks Sundry! (insert cheesy grin here)
samantha jo campen | October 6th, 2007 at 12:48 am
I am a huge fan of pouch-style carriers. When my son was small I ordered a Maya Ring Sling because I had seen someone wearingone but I could never get comfortable in it. And I didn’t like that giant swath of fabric hanging down.
Shortly thereafter I started trying pouched, first a Lucky baby Wear one (very reasonably priced) and then moved to Hotslings as well. The fit is no problem is you measure yourself correctly and most companies are good baout exchanges if you get one and need to change sizes. They say you can use them up to 35 lbs also…my son is 21 lbs and still completely confy and easy to carry in it.
They are very easy to fold up small and stick in your purse and because they are non-adjustable they are easy and quick to put on and get the baby in. They come in tons of cute fabrics-I have mulitple to match different outfits!
Also, to the person who said their newborn wasn’t comfy in the sling, a helpful hint is to place a folded up small towel under them to make it a little more sturdy so they don’t “squish” so much in the cradle hold.
I would suggest going to the NINO (Nine In, Nine Out) website and finding a babywearing group near you, people bring various carriers and you can try them out to figure out what the best one for you is.
Melissa | October 6th, 2007 at 2:18 am
Sorry-I had a bunch of typos! Mommy-brain attacks again.
Melissa | October 6th, 2007 at 2:20 am
As if you didn’t have enough suggestions already….
I used a bjorn with Payton but after about 6 months he got too heavy to carry comfortable. A friend had also loaned me her Maya Wrap but I could never really figure it out.
When Tori was born in March, I knew that I was going to have to carry her much more because Payton was only 18 months when she was born. I borrowed a friend’s HotSling for a day and loved it! It is so much easier than the wrap. You just plop baby down in there (even very tiny babies) and go! Most of the fabrics have a tiny stretch to them so they fit really well. And they come in cool fabrics too!
I’ve since made a couple of my own based off the Hotsling and I love them. But the real thing is pretty reasonably priced.
Cara | October 6th, 2007 at 5:08 am
We got babybjorn because we both want an ability to carry our child. I just can’t imagine my husband using a sling
However, I love the idea of a sling and will have to check some of these out! Thanks!
victoria | October 6th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
I’m pretty happy with my hot sling. You can use with tiny babies as well as bigger babies.
I have had a hard time with slings/carriers, etc. while trying to take care of my other children. I find it hard to bend over with a baby attached to the front of me. (I have 4 children — the oldest is 6.) Most of the time, despite my WANTING to carry the baby, I end up putting him in the stroller so I am better able-bodied to handle the other children. Consequently, I feel like my expenditure on the hot sling was a little frivolous.
1hot&tiredmama | October 6th, 2007 at 3:21 pm
Hi,
I used the peanut shell when my son was born, he loved it. Then I bought the mei tai to this day I still use it and he’s 32 lbs. I bought the Moby wrap it didn’t work that great it’s a long roll of farbric. If you want it you can have it I only used it maybe twice at the most, it’s in black.
Yvette mommy of 2
yvette | October 6th, 2007 at 8:00 pm
Hi! I have the Native Carrier, very similiar to the hotsling. It was awesome. I had the bjorn, etc, but I have 3 kids. When my kids were 4, 2 and 4 months, we went to Disneyland. It’s great because it gives me both hands free, to hold the other babes, and the little one was securely snuggled against my body. It was also great for nursing on the move and for when I needed to go to the bathroom, it was soooo easy to transfer him to his dad without disturbing his slumber. I don’t recommend this, but I was able to go on a few rides and I felt safe with him tucked in there. Of course, it was rides like, It’s a Small World…not Space Mountain, but who am I to complain! Hope this helps and good luck…oh yeah. I had this carrier with the other kids, but they didn’t take to it at first, so I moved on. Since I knew this was the one for ME, the baby adjusted in a couple of tries.
Janice | October 7th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
I swear by the New Native Carrierhttp://www.newnativebaby.com/
LOVE IT! I got two different sizes and, by the time baby number two came around, several different slings b/c I was using them every day. She’s now almost 17 months and STILL sits in it on my hip. She loves it and feels safe and comfortable. A couple of important ways I used it: when the oldest (they’re 18 months apart) wanted to swing but I needed to push her and nurse I was able to stand behind the swing and nurse the newborn and no one really knew b/c they couldn’t see anything. At the grocery store with both girls - oldest in the cart, baby snug as a bug in front of me. Cooking when baby only wants to be held - secure her behind me in the carrier and cook away. She went from laying down to sitting facing out w/ her legs crossed to now being on my hip. She’s happy to rest her head now and even nap in it…wish I could post a recent pic of her doing so! Their website even has videos to show you how to use it. One piece of fabric, really easy to get the hang of once you do get the hang of it. Good luck!!
Mandy | October 8th, 2007 at 12:51 pm
My son was 7 months old when he came home (adopted from Korea) but I bow down to the gods of the Ergo. That thing just about saved our lives. Sure you wont be taking your new baby on a 15 hour plane ride… and he wont be 20 pounds when he arrives (at least we hope not!) but still, amen to the Ergo. I also had a Mei Tai, which was pretty, but way uncomfortable. The Ergo offers great support, all around. Best money I’ve ever spent.
Sabrina | October 8th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
I loved my sling. I had others, but it was the sling I went to most (Over The Shoulder Baby Holder). I could hold him in it in several ways, could nurse very privately, and could get in and out of it quickly. He’s 2 and I use it still.
I had a front carrier also, but it was sort of a pain to get on and off and I couldn’t nurse in it at all. It was more frustrating than anything.
I also had the Ultimate Baby Wrap, which you get used to putting on after a while, but it still took too long for me. I would end up just keeping it on, but then it would get in my way. I just got annoyed. Plus, when he was over 12 pounds, it stretched out every time I put him in and I had to spend the whole time while wearing it cinching it up so that it felt secure.
heels | October 8th, 2007 at 4:44 pm
We chose the Bjorn because it fit both me and the hubster. But it killed my back. Next time, I will find a beyootiful and comfy sling for me and the hubster can still use the Bjorn.
Laurie | October 8th, 2007 at 6:32 pm
I LOVED the Kelty front carrier. It is a hiking brand and it is very durable. It is larger, so it works longer. The backpack works great too. (oh and I never hiked with it, I just know the KELTY name is associated with hiking.
Tracy | October 8th, 2007 at 6:45 pm
For a newborn, I love love love my Kangaroo Korner adjustable fleece pouch. Might be a little too warm for babies born in summer, but since like me you are having a winter baby, it will be perfect. So snuggly and cozy.
For an older baby, I agree with everyone else that an Ergo would be a bargain at twice the price. The key is really to get the baby used to carriers from the start, though, or an older baby would probably rebel.
Rachel | October 8th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
One thing I haven’t seen addressed, is that it depends on the baby. My older daughter would stay in a ring sling all day, but would scream like a maniac in a front carrier. My middle daughter only tolerated a sling for 10-15 minutes, and really only liked one of those hiking type backpacks (not so convenient). It doesn’t matter how comfy it is if your kid freaks when you use it…
Hosnestly, at most times, you’ll do fine with a shopping cart with two kids. Now we have a third (10 days old). I plan on using a Bjorn for grocery shopping so my 21 month old can still ride and have a place to put groceries. I just don’t feel like a sling would be secure enough while pushing a cart, getting groceries and managing two other kids under 5. Just my two cents.
Kristie | October 8th, 2007 at 8:03 pm
Ergo. Ergo. I use my Ergo daily with my son, now 22-months and 27 pounds. If you start now, maybe you can find one on craigslist?
Heather | October 8th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
I have to throw in my vote for the Ergo. I used the Bjorn for a while but it hurt my shoulders. The Ergo put Theo’s weight on my hips, which felt much better. I rarely used it any way other than with him on my front but liked that he could be on my back or on my hip if I wanted. Also, there’s a handy little zip pocket and ring to hook keys to.
Mrs. Breedorf | October 9th, 2007 at 5:05 am
I used a front carrier with my son, but it was the inexpensive kind as I couldn’t see spending the money for a bjorn. I got the Evenflo Snugli carrier from Babies R Us for twenty bucks. It held up and I used it until my son could walk. I would definitely recommend it for someone who’s on a budget. I felt there was enough back support for me and he seemed comfortable in it - always falling asleet there.
bea | October 9th, 2007 at 5:31 am
I think this blog needs a poll function.
I LOVE my Mei Tai. It was great when she was tiny, and it’s great now. When she’s tired, I put her facing my chest and she calms down and goes to sleep. When we are just hanging out, I put her on my hip or on my back. I didn’t do that when she was tiny, just facing me. I also like my Ultimate Baby Wrap. She likes it for facing out, and I’ve also used it to walk around Costco while nursing her. All sorts of discreet.
Robin | October 9th, 2007 at 7:11 am
I’m due next month & am looking at the Moby. I need something that goes across both shoulders, because a one-sided sling gives me problems (I used to carry a messenger bag over one shoulder, starting the problems I now have). I don’t think tying it will be that bad, once you’ve practiced.
I think the Bjorn will be good for hubby. And now that I’ve read everyone’s comments, I may have to check out the Ergo for when he gets a little bigger.
becky | October 9th, 2007 at 3:25 pm
We used the sling and it worked out great.
Both of our kids started out sling-riding and I found it so much easier than taking a stroller. When they got older, they hip rode in the same sling. It’s fun to see so many great ideas about baby carriers!
Annemarie | October 11th, 2007 at 7:34 pm
I am obsessed with my pouch. It is the same idea of a sling but no hassle. super easy. And the baby loves it too.
http://www.kangarookorner.com/c-8-adjustable-pouches.aspx
Anonymous | October 11th, 2007 at 8:45 pm
TEAM! ERGO! Seriously the best investment of any child-related product we have gotten. Started using it when our baby was 4 or 5 mos and used it until he was almost 3. The Ergo saved my sanity because this is a baby/toddler who wanted to be as close as close could be to his mother. At. All. Times. Always. Without Cease. Since I WOH’d it until he was 2, that left a lot of evenings where I got home late, had to start dinner, a load of laundry etc etc and had a needy-ass child. Plunked in the Ergo he was happy as a clam. Also went on many a hike and long-distance trip with us, easy enough to roll up and shove in a tote or diaper bag…I love you Ergo.
Jay | October 12th, 2007 at 9:13 am
I strongly recommend a sling post-cesarian (while you heal), but for all-around baby carrying, we’ve been really really happy with the mei tai we ordered from Babyhawk (www.babyhawk.com). I got one with an extra pocket (neat!) and the headrest. It cost $90 and arrived within 10 days. In my humble opinion, it’s easier to wear and operate than a bjorn and the baby is all comfy with his legs tucked in (important in the foul NW fall weather).
Sarah | October 12th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
I bought 4 meters of cotton jersey and made a Moby style wrap. There are ZILLIONS of ways to use it and it is easy to learn to tie up. I also had ababy Bjorn but found that I had a lot of back pain with it.
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textpath » Looking for a few good baby carriers | November 1st, 2007 at 9:07 pm
The Peanut Shell was great post c-section and my daughter loved being in it while she was still in the curled up newborn phase. The Ergo was uncomfortable at first until I had healed enough to wear weight around my hips - now it is the best. Also the infant insert was sort of bulky.
Grace | November 2nd, 2007 at 4:17 am
A liitle late but - I have a 6 week old and I use a sling from mammasmilk.com. It’s great because it’s adjustable so anyone can use it, and she falls asleep right away. She spends all of the other hours of the day eating and crying, so anythi8ng that gives us mother’s a break long enough to eat…
Heather | November 2nd, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Hello, I am a Nanny to two wonderful little boys, one is 2 1/2 and the other is 4 months. I SWEAR by the mei-tai. Holy hell, I’d never get a dang thing done without it. I used it a lot when the oldest was between 12-20 months because we live in a huge city and used the subway a lot…and now, it’s so nice to be able to be mobile on the playground and not have to worry about the bulky stroller or carseat. So freeing
Laura (nanny) | November 5th, 2007 at 10:15 pm
I love the Ergo! I used a bjorn for my first 3 kids. For our fourth I decided I wanted a new carrier and did a lot of research and bought the Ergo. Well, lo and behold our fourth ended up being a preemie. Seven weeks early, only 3lbs 9ozs! I used the Ergo with her from the time she was released from the NICU and use it still, she is 6mos. When she a was a wee little one we had the infant insert and carried her cradled all snug. She loved it and I loved it because she was safe right next to me and protected from all the onlookers germs! She now sits in it and loves it. My Hubby carries her in it too. He likes it because it fits his frame, his big guy (6′1″) and mine 5′2″. It takes a little practice to figure it out, but the instructional DVD is great. It’s expensive, but worth it!
Jessica | November 30th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
I recognize your seeking for the best carrier. My friend in the USA adviced me the Ergo, so I bought it second hand. My second baby still has to come, so I couldn’t try it on. With my first child I used crappy carriers, like Kipling and ones you will not be able to buy in the USA (good for you!).
Anyway, but when she could sit easily, I folded and knotted a long piece of fabric (5 meters) and carried her on my hip. The fabric was nothing special, just like a cut bed laeken or so. Until she became 11 kilos, I carried her like that. Great, I could see her, kiss her head and I could carrier her for more than two hours together with the shoppings.
I would love to buy a beco I guess, but too expensive for the moment…
anne (Europe) | January 4th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Loved the Ergo, and also the simple sash/pocket/peanut slings. Someone gave us a sling from Walking Rock Farm and we used that a lot as well.
Sara | January 8th, 2008 at 12:15 am
I know I’m way to late but I LOVE MY MOBY. In fact I love it so much I have 3. One at work, home and in my car. I have a son about Rileys age and just had my second in November. I love the Moby because I can pack my little one and still pick up the big one. It only takes 30 seconds to put on (I timed it on the microwave) and after doing it about twice it becomes as easy as figuring out how to aim a cookie towards your mouth. I love that I can wear my son so many different ways and I only have to wrap it on me one way but can use it 6 ways from there. I have effectively nursed un noticed in a Barnes and Noble and giant kids birthday party place. I cook in it, work in it, clean in it and grocery shopping is so much easier. In fact I’ve not carried my baby in his car seat once and am now angry I bought a stupid infant car seat instead of just going right for the convertible one from the start since I never never take it out of my car! I have also washed mine 3 or 4 times and it hasn’t lost quality at all. I love love love this thing!
wilddreemer | January 28th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Also this was my second C-section and I had no comfort issues with healing and wearing the Moby. (It is quite long so if its crappy out I do put the Moby on before leaving the house. It also covers the babies head if you want to so they stay totally enclosed and snuggly warm with out seeming like they might suffocate!
wilddreemer | January 28th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Okay me again, reading some of the comments above. The Moby is secure enough to shop in, I can bend down and grab stuff from the bottom of the shelves, I reach high and I can unload easily. I also wear it out to eat and the baby just chills on me while I eat! I’ve also never once had to retie it after placing the baby in it.
wilddreemer | January 28th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
No one here has mentioned the Belle, which is a great new carrier. I think it has only been out about a year or so and is less than $100 so not too terribly expensive, although on the higher end. It seems like you are daunted by the complexity of all these carriers, and the Belle is super easy to use. I think it is probably better for a newborn than the Ergo (which has to use what they call an “infant insert”). It is also incredibly comfortable on your back, and your baby can face out too, if your baby is into that. I really like using a hippie sling too, to mix it up a little and put my son in different positions, but I end up using the Belle more often, mostly because it’s so easy.
jellybean | February 25th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
We have seen recalls this year on the Beco Baby Butterfly Slings and the Ellaroo. For both recalls, the buckles/rings were failing and the babes “could” fall out.
Claire | May 16th, 2008 at 6:19 pm
We used the BJORN, the Maya and the Ergo and the Ergo was by far our favorite! It’s easy to use, does not put the weight on your back and is extremely comfortable to wear. My son is 13 months and almost 30lbs (big boy!) and I still use this for our long walks and hikes. It’s expensive, but well worth it. My son also loves to use it backwards on Daddy’s back. It’s very easy to adjust and can be switch from back to front very easily.
Kyla | May 1st, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Nice post! To choose best baby carrier is really very important for parents,because baby carriers indirectly helps in child’s brain and body development.So according to me your blog is really helpful for the baby carrier seekers.
Baby Hip Carrier | October 5th, 2012 at 10:19 am