Baby Sling or Carrier? Which One Is Right For Me?
Wanting to keep your baby close after they are born isn’t shocking at all. A lot of parents love the convenience of having their little one with them at all times. In fact, some parents even have theories about attachment parenting, where they are holding their baby for a vast majority of the first few years of their lives. While some parents aren’t into attachment parenting and just need their hands free while keeping their baby close.
One big item of discussion when it comes to carrying your baby with you is if you should get a baby carrier or a baby sling. They both have pros and cons, and many parents swear by one or the other. Which one is right for you, though? Let’s take a look at both.
Baby Sling
A baby sling is usually made out of soft fabric that you wrap in a special way around you, while leaving a type of pouch for the baby to lie in. It typically goes over one of your shoulders, and some moms think they are more comfortable to wear than a carrier.
You do need to be careful while wearing a sling, though, because babies have weak neck muscles until they are at least four months and can possibly suffocate if not watched. The Mayo Clinic says that if you decide to use a baby sling, be sure to follow the wrapping directions exactly, make sure the baby’s mouth and nose aren’t blocked, watch for any weare on your wrap, and be careful when you bend over while you’re wearing a sling. As long as you’re careful with your sling wearing, it can be a great opportunity for you and your baby to bond.
Infant Baby Carrier
An infant baby carrier tends to be a little more structured than a baby sling. It doesn’t involve a lot of wrapping, you just place the baby inside, and adjust and attach the straps as needed.
While it’s still important to watch for wearing on your carrier, its structure can make it a little easier to operate. It’s important to make sure your carrier works for your baby’s size and age, or they could be injured. A carrier still allows you to carry a baby closely, like a wrapr does, but it gives you a little more structure.
For some parents, this might mean a little less anxiety compared to wrapping their baby in a sling and maybe getting it wrong. Carriers are a little more intuitive. However, they don’t offer as much flexibility as a baby sling.
The biggest benefit of both a baby carrier and a baby sling is that your baby will be close to you at all times, and you’ll have your hands free to do other activities. Make sure you do a lot of research on both to ensure you’re getting not only the carrier or sling you want, but one that fits your needs perfectly.