Sling & Bbay carrier Comparison Chart | Bloomington-Normal, IL | Once Upon a Sling

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A Sling Comparison Chart

You may also like: Slings by Age

Need help figuring out what type of carrier is best for you?  Hopefully this chart can help! 

 

Style of Carrier Brands Learning Curve Carry Positions Weight distribution Recommended for* Versatility Price
Ring Sling Maya, Sleeping Baby, ZoloWear easy -moderate hip, front, back possible one shoulder birth - 35lbs moderate $74.95 - 125
Mei Tai BabyHawk, Catbird, Catbird BE easy front, back, hip possible  both shoulders, hips birth - 35lb good $69 - 109
Soft Structured Action Baby, Beco Butterfly 2, Beco Gemini, Boba, Oh Snap, Olives & Applesauce, Onya, Pikkolo easy front, back, some allow hip both shoulders, hips birth-40lbs some - good $89-149.99
Stretchy Wrap

Boba Wrap,

Moby

 

moderate  front both shoulders birth-20lbs less $44.95 - 52.95
Woven Wrap BaliBreeze, Dolcino, BaliStretch** Moderate to difficult front, hip, back both shoulders, hips birth-35lbs very $79 -140

*All carriers are considered safe up to 35lbs.  Moms have commented that stretchy wraps tend to 'sag' at the heavier weights, and one shouldered carriers can cause back pain depending on length of wear.  Parents with bad backs should choose a 2 shouldered carrier for long wear.

** The BaliStretch Wrap is considered a Hybrid wrap - while having some stretch, the width and hemmed edges make this wrap safe for back carries.

Which sling type is right for me?

 

There are several thing to consider when you are choosing a baby carrier.  First, the age of your baby.  All the carriers we carry can be used for a newborn.  Each carrier can safely hold a child up to 35lbs.  

 

The stretchy wraps are excellent for the newborn up to about 20lbs.  Mothers have found that older and heavier babies can still be carried, but most prefer another type of carrier.  The Moby is excellent for the new mom-to-be.   The stretchy fabric holds the newborn close to the heart, snug and secure.  This carrier only allows for the front carry and should never be worn with baby on back. The baby can push against the wearers body and flip out. A woven wrap (see below) will not have the 'give' to let a baby flip out and can be used for a longer amount of time

 

*The BaliStretch hybrid is not very stretchy at all and can carry comfortably to 35lbs.  Babies can be worn on the back as well allowing mom or dad to have hands free, making this the #1 wrap choice for newborns through toddler hood for its long term affordability.

     

A ring sling, is great for the what I term up-down child.  The child that constantly likes to be held, then let down to explore.  This sling can be worn comfortably for hours with the child on your front, hip or back.  This sling is safe from the newborn stage till they no longer want to be picked up.  The Ring slings come with an instructional DVD to ensure proper placement and safety.  With amazingly beautiful fabrics, this sling a must have sling in the car and diaper bag.

    

A mei tai, is a piece of fabric with 4 straps.   Mei Tai's are best for long-term wear and older children, though infants can be securely worn in them as well.  The straps go over both shoulders and do a great job of distributing the weight of the child without hurting your back.  It is more comfortable than wearing a backpack.  A child is securely tied in place, on the front, back or hip allowing for truly hand-free adventures.   

 

 A soft structured carrier (scc for short), is another great choice.  It is similar to a mei tei but contains buckles instead of tying the straps.  We have used a scc with it's many features for long hikes.  The straps are very comfortable and you can wear your baby/toddler on your front or back.  Adjustable buckles makes this carrier easy to use.  

 

The most versatile carrier is the woven wrap.  Wraps allow for your imagination to take over.  There are many many different ways to tie a wrap, the most common can be gone over in a consultation or class.  You can carry baby on your front, or on your back, or on your hip.  These do have the largest learning curve, but the flexibility is often worth the time it takes to learn how to wrap.

     

What type of sling you ultimately choose, is a preference that has to do with your lifestyle.  Of course, I found it very difficult to choose just one.  Every sling has it benefits.  Check out the classes so that you can try on all the different types of carriers and choose for yourself or please set up a time to come in to find what works best for you.

 

This site is designed and maintained by Anna Hubbard

info@onceuponasling.com

Located in Bloomington, IL

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