Baby carriers and slings allow you to keep your baby close to you while you get on with day-to-day activities. Carriers that come equipped with buckles, clips and Velcro fasteners can be difficult to use. Baby slings are a simple and cost-effective alternative. You can purchase a sling or simply make one with a piece of cotton fabric. Baby slings can be worn in many different ways and adjusted to suit your height and body shape.
Step 1
Fold the baby sling wrap in half to find the middle of the fabric. Place the center of the fabric over your stomach and then wrap it around your waist, taking both ends behind you. The fabric will form a wide belt over your stomach. Grip the fabric with one hand behind your back to hold it in place while you position the loose ends with your other hand.
Step 2
Bring the left side of the fabric over your right shoulder to the front side of your body and the right side of the fabric over your left shoulder and then to the front. The material will from a tight cross over your back, make sure it’s spread evenly across your back and is not twisted.
Step 3
Place your baby in the sling. Position your baby so he is facing you. The top of his head should be just below your chin, and his bottom should be around the same level as your navel. Make sure the fabric supports his back.
Step 4
Pull the loose end of the fabric on your left side to tighten it slightly. Bring it across your baby’s back and tuck it under his left leg. Repeat with the opposite side, bringing the fabric on your right side across your baby’s back and then tucking it under his right leg.
Step 5
Take the two loose ends of fabric around your waist and then tie securely at the back with two knots. Alternatively, you can tie the loose ends of the fabric on either side of your hips.
Tips and Warnings
- To make a baby sling yourself, purchase a piece of cotton that’s approximately 20 inches wide and 15 feet long. Make sure it’s sturdy and its edges roll in when stretched so you won't have to sew along the edges. Practice with a doll or try putting the sling on someone else a few times until you have perfected the technique. Experiment with carrying your baby in different positions once you are comfortable in the basic cross wrap position outlined above. Learn to carry your baby on your front, your back or your hip by simply adjusting the way you tie your baby sling (see Resources).
- Make sure all knots are securely fastened before you start moving with your baby in the sling. Always take your baby out of the sling before you loosen any knots or adjust the sling.
Things You'll Need
- 15 ft. cotton fabric or baby sling
