Talk to me about ring slings, should I get one?

[Madratlady]

Someone kindly lent me a ring sling to try with my 5wo ds. It feels comfy and he seems to like being carried close.

Would you recommend a ring sling? Why/ why not?

How long are they suitable for, as in rough age/size?

Please reassure me that it's safe and he won't slide out of the bottom!

[FightingOverImaginaryIcecream]

I didn't get on very well with the ring sling, DS's were both huge babies and I couldn't carry all the weight on 1 shoulder without getting backache. I got a wrap sling when DS1 was about 8 weeks and it was the best thing ever, much comfier and I used it until he was about 6 months (then moved on to a patapum).

It's all very personal and different people get on with different types, ring sling probably very comfy for baby, but possibly not so comfy for you when they're heavier.

[HolyDrinker]

He'll be perfectly safe!

I have an ellaroo. It's lovely, but tbh I don't find it very comfy for long periods of time. It pulls on my shoulder. And neither of mine have ever slept in it (youngest is 4mo). I think a tiny newborn would find it comfy enough to snooze, but mine is now too big to lie down in it and has to sit up on my hip.

However, i do find it very useful for short periods as it's very lightweight to carry around and quick to put on. I use it for nipping into the supermarket, a quick carry when I'm trying to cook dinner etc or if they're whinging while in the buggy.

For longer carries, I find a soft structured carrier or wrap sling comfier and they both sleep in those. But everyone is different and if you find it comfy then go for it!