Baby equipment stores stock a growing variety of harnesses, pouches, slings and holders to let you carry your baby in front of your body. Keeping your baby close to your body makes it feel safe, warm and protected. Sometimes, that means less crying and more relaxed times for you. Plus, it leaves your arms free to do other things. The available options range from very simple squares of soft cloth to elaborate harnesses.
Harness
Baby harnesses consist of padded, supportive pieces of material with sewn-in straps and buckles or clips to fasten the harness to the front of your body. Some women feel more secure with a harness as opposed to a sling. The extra support and buckles give the sensation of reliability. However, others report that harnesses make them feel tight or pull their body too far forward. Some harnesses don't suit newborn babies who cannot yet support their heads. Front packs make a suitable alternative for very young babies, but become more uncomfortable as the baby grows heavier.
Wraps and Slings
At first glance, most slings look the same. However, mothers around the world use a range of cloth styles and wrapping methods to create a baby sling. A wrap sling uses stretchy material that twists around your body and hugs your baby in tight to your chest. Though difficult to master, the wrapping technique remains very secure and snug once you become comfortable with it. Some mothers find the ring sling an easier option. These use a connecting ring to join the material, meaning you can slide it over your head and put it on faster.
Pouches
Pouches usually have a deep pocket in the center that the baby tucks into. The kangaroo pouch makes a useful variation. This method of carrying your baby on the front of you makes it easier to make eye contact with your baby as you move around. The baby sits in the pouch and leans back away from your body slightly. Shoulder straps take the strain off your back.
Precautions
Follow exact instructions when putting your baby inside all slings and harnesses. While a baby proves more robust that we sometimes think, pressing his face up against soft material poses a serious risk of suffocation. For example, in March 2010, a Californian baby sling manufacturer recalled 1 million slings following reports of three related infant deaths. Babies under four months remain at particular risk from blocked airways. However, in most cases, following instructions when using slings and harnesses presents no issues. Babies should always have chins up and mouths free.
References
- Which?; Choosing a Sling or Baby Carrier;
- AskDrSears.com; What Babywearing Means -- Our Story; William Sears
- "Parenting For Dummies"; Sandra Hardin Gookin, Dan Gookin; 2011
- BBC News; Infantino Baby Slings Recalled in US and Canada; March 24, 2010
- "Sew and Go Baby: A Collection of Practical Baby Gear Projects/With Pattern"; Jasmine Hubble; 1998
