If you’re anything like me, you’ll discover that the arrival of your little bundle of joy stirs up great longing for many things that you once took for granted: sleep in blocks greater than 90 minutes; shirts free from crusted baby spit-up; and the use of both hands at once. Sure, you can hire a wet nurse for those evening feedings and sew a cloth onto every shoulder of every shirt, but I’d suggest focusing on the hands. With a baby nestled in one arm it’s nearly impossible to tie your shoes, make the bed or boil a pot of spaghetti. And forget knitting a sweater or typing a letter. That’s why they invented the baby sling. Wearing your infant or toddler is nothing new. Children have strapped to the backs and fronts of mothers—and increasingly fathers—all over the world since the beginning of time. Today, the selection of slings and carriers is bigger than ever and the benefits are just as sweet—a cozy, happy babe nestled close to her parent’s heart and two free hands to use as you see fit.
Here are some of my favorite organic ways to wear your baby:
Newbie slingers and advanced baby wearers can’t get enough of the simple, easy-to-use design of the Maya Wrap ($58.95). The big silver shoulder ring allows for quick adjustments and the instructional video details the many ways you can carry your child as he grows (think front cradle to supported piggy back). Added perk: enough fabric to breastfeed privately.
Finding the right carrier is a process that depends as much on style and color preferences as it does on body type—and dexterity. I found some slings and wraps to be intimidating in their complexity. I imagined that the day would soon come where I would be trying to stuff a screaming baby into sling that refused to expand or a wrap that refused to wrap (see below). Dittany Baby ($40) keeps it simple (and affordable) with the organic cotton pouch sling complete with bamboo leg padding to ensure that chubby thighs stay supported.
And then there’s the Moby Wrap ($69.95). I continue to be in awe of new parents who have not only figured out how to care for a tiny, fragile, crying, drooling little creature, but who have also figured out how to wrap that creature in a Moby Wrap without damaging any of its parts. Essentially one very long strip of organic cotton, the wrap looks incredibly snuggly for both baby and parent, but has always been beyond my ability. This is advanced wrapping. But don’t be afraid. You’re smarter than me.
If toting your babe in the height of ergonomic comfort is your primary goal, look no further than the lumbar-protecting Ergo ($120). I did. This strappy, adjustable carrier distributes your baby’s weight in all the right ways and grows as he does. I packed W in—with the infant insert ($22.49)—from week one and carried him until I could literally carry him no more (14 months or so). And the word on the street is that dads feel especially cool transporting their kid Ergo-style. W’s certainly did.
