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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

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Original poster

Baby sling or carrier

19 replies

Treehouse413 · 12/03/2018 12:40

I am looking to buy one of the above for use from birth. I don’t like the look of the material sling things but i have my eye on an ergo baby carrier. Do you think I couls still use this around the house to do housework and stuff or is a sling better? TIA

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pattimayonnaise · 12/03/2018 12:46

I'd find your nearest sling library and borrow one. I went when my daughter was a week old and was recommended a boba stretchy wrap as she was so small. I borrowed it for four weeks and then bought one myself. I love it and use it every day for walking to school, doing housework etc. She's now nearly four months. It's better to go and try some different things out at a library because you don't know what will be comfortable for you and your baby, everyone is different.

sunandfire · 12/03/2018 13:23

I second everything @pattimayonnaise has said. Sling libraries are a really good option. Luckily, a relative has borrowed me a boba sling (which she swears by), and she used a Ergo sling when her baby got a bit older and loved it. I plan to get one when my baby gets older, too!

scaredofthecity · 12/03/2018 13:23

I had an ergo last time but didn't use it till DS was about 4 months, it's a big carrier for a little baby. You can use an infant insert but it's a lot of extra padding and they can easily overheat. I'm due dc2 in may so it'll probably be too warm to use the ergo for a while. I've bought a stretchy wrap to use in the mean time, I bought it (barely) used from Facebook for £15 so it hasn't broke the bank iyswim.
There is a massive difference between a tiny newborn and a chunky 6mo that can support themselves and sit unaided, so it makes sense that the needs from a sling would be different.

childmindingmumof3 · 12/03/2018 13:26

Stretchy wraps are good for newborns but I would borrow/hire/get second hand as I wanted to use a buckled carrier by 3-4 months.

EssentialHummus · 12/03/2018 13:27

What patti said. I hated my Ergo, wish I’d have tried before buying.

Coconuthusk · 12/03/2018 13:27

Yes, sling library! Also, stretchies are, in my experience, much better for little babies. Then again, I loved my woven sling and never got the love of buckles.

sunandfire · 12/03/2018 13:27

@scaredofthecity I had those exact thoughts about the Ergo sling with the insert (looked too hot for baby as I'm also due in May - late May, too). The stretchy slings definitely seem like a better option for newborns!

Coconuthusk · 12/03/2018 13:28

But I am glad you are looking at the more ergonomic carriers.

AnElderlyLadyOfMediumHeight · 12/03/2018 13:32

I recommend the Marsupi. It's based on wide velcro straps. I used it from birth with dc2 and 3 and carried on for at least 7 months with dc2 before swapping to an Ergo-type and for about 18 months with dc3. It keeps them very close, gives the correct hip position (get a 'Marsupi' as opposed to a 'Marsupi Plus', which is an older model with a narrower 'seat') and I found it very convenient to put on and take off.

They're not well-known in the UK but here's a link: gomarsupi.com/

bassackwards · 12/03/2018 13:44

I carried my DD in a stretchy wrap (Moby) from birth. It's been brilliant - so comfy and supportive for DD. I've tried a few different wrapping methods and found it to be surprisingly versatile.

When DD reached 4 months I also bought a structured carrier (Baby Bjorn 'One') and actually that's been really good too. It's quicker to put on than the wrap and DD is very content in it. It's been handy for travelling/ airports. The only thing I'm struggling with are the heavy-duty buckles - they're a bit stiff and impossible to clasp/unclasp one-handed. Maybe it's just me

Northernbeachbum · 12/03/2018 13:45

Following as I have an ergo baby with newborn insert but due in june!

FranticallyPeaceful · 12/03/2018 13:51

Disliked everyone I have used (they start to hurt after awhile) other than Rose & Rebellion ones. They’re great!

reetgood · 12/03/2018 13:52

I have a funky flamingo stretchy wrap which I love - but I did need showing how to tie it at the sling library! So agree with advice to head to the library before buying anything.

Keepingupwiththejonesys · 12/03/2018 13:53

I had a stretchy and absolutely loved it. My baby was big, 10lb8oz, I never felt uncomfortable with him in it and used it often until he was around 10 months. I just changed the way I tied it from about 5months

Thishatisnotmine · 12/03/2018 13:59

I used an ergo with insert from when dd was about 4 weeks. Dd2 was born end of April last year and May and June had some really hot days. I found she got warm in it but not worryingly so. It made me very hot! I would often get a very sweaty front. I used it oyt and around the house when she was overtired (screamed when needed sleep and still does!). Have just bought a Connecta from ebay which should be waiting for me at home and I am looking forward to trying.

Buxbaum · 12/03/2018 18:01

Ergo is fantastic from about 4 months but is uncomfortable for both of you during the newborn stage. The infant insert really is like a little duvet and it’s far too warm for the summer.

londonloves · 12/03/2018 18:13

I couldn't face going to a sling library as I live in an area of London where there is a high breast feeding rate and I had heard that sling libraries feel like no go areas to formula feeders (I am super sensitive about this as I really wanted to bf but couldn't). So I paid a baby wearing consultant to come to my house. I think this is a good option with a newborn if getting out feels too much. I had a Moby but I couldn't get the hang of it. Got a Manduca now for my enormous 18lb 5 month old and I love it. I use it loads in the house (I initially had a baby Bjorn which I regret as it knackered my back and pelvic floor but it served a purpose for a few weeks while I got educated).

MyBabyBoyBlue · 12/03/2018 18:33

I recommend using the Close Caboo - we had a Baby Bjorn initially but I didn't get on with it, and it sits over my c section scar so that in itself was a big no-no. The Close Caboo is a cloth wrap but very secured and my DS loves it, sends him right off to sleep!

Libi0closetomyheart · 30/04/2018 18:55

You may find the ergo a bit bulky around the house, so you may prefer a more light weight option like a stretchy wrap or a ring sling for around the house.

I too really recommend finding your nearest sling library where they can show you several options and you can try then on to see what you like best. A carrier is essential for a new baby, bit which one to get is very much a matter of taste and fit.

I am a sling consultant myself so very happy to help too if we happen to be in the same area.

Good luck to you!

Libi

Close to my Heart - NW London Slings

www.facebook.com/Close-to-my-Heart-NW-London-Slings-1274780352623337/

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