Babywearing

I really enjoy "wearing" Mia!  It has been mutually beneficial for us.  Babywearing is carrying your baby in a sling/carrier/wrap.  Our slings/wraps have been God-sent and have helped me keep my baby content and my chores from piling up.  Mia also loves being close to me and getting to see her surroundings by going around the house strapped to my chest.  She can also get some really good sleep in the sling/wrap, which is great when she is fighting going down for a nap.  

There are several different kinds of slings you can choose from: 

1. Wraparound sling
2. Ring sling
3. Pouch sling
4. Mei tai
5. Soft structured carrier

However, not all slings are created equally, and there are some features you need to make sure your sling has to protect your baby's hips and development.  

You want to make sure to purchase a sling that keeps your baby's legs in a "froggy leg" or "M" position.  This helps distribute the support of the thighs, hips, and knees.  You should stay away from the "crotch dangling" carriers that can contribute to hip dysplasia.  

We currently have three slings, but I am already wanting to buy more, I think I may be addicted! My reviews for our slings are as follows:  

Wraparound sling: When Mia was a newborn, we used the Moby wrap.  Mia is actually the fourth child to use this particular Moby wrap, so that should speak to its durability.   

• Pros: Provided the most support, kept her warm (during the winter), one size fits all for wearer, and customizable for different holds
• Cons: Mia did not like how confining it was, it is too hot for the spring and summer, and the fabric drags on the ground while wrapping
• Alternative: This week I came across the Solly baby wrap on the blog Little Baby Garvin.  It is supposed to be more lightweight, more compact, and less hot than the Moby wrap.  

Look how tiny she was! (Excuse the dirty mirror)

Chubby cheeks

Pouch sling: I got a pouch sling (Seven everyday slings) for free with a promotion and you get what you pay for!  I think if I would have had a better quality pouch sling I may have liked this kind of sling.  

• Pros: Easy/quick to use, most compact, lightweight, cute designs, and easiest to throw in the diaper bag
• Cons: Sized to the wearer (so Mike could not use this sling).  This particular sling was also uncomfortable and the fabric was rough (again you get what you pay for)

Mei tai: I LOVE my mei tai wrap.  It is by far my favorite sling so far.  AND it was only $25!  You can get one for that price at Target or Amazon.  This wrap is a steal for the price!   

• Pros: Easy to use, lightweight, breathable, good support, comfortable to wear, one size fits all for wearer, and customizable for different holds
• Cons: Ties drag on the floor and Mia still gets hot in it 

It is also pretty! 

Peeking out

Sleeping away in the wrap

We do not own a ring sling or a soft structured carrier.  However I have my eye on a soft structured carrier, the BobaAir.  It has a minimum weight of 15 lbs, so once Mia hits that weight, I am going to buy this carrier.  It is supposed to be the most lightweight and breathable for the summer.  It is also very compact and folds into a pouch you can throw into your diaper bag or purse!  I am very excited to get my hands on this carrier.  

If anyone has some suggestion for wraps that are cool for the summer, I am all ears.  Also if you have any recommendations for a sling (pouch or ring), let me know!