Slings - URGENT - recommend me a soft structured carrier please

[IlanaK]

With my back killing me today after carrying my almost 8 month old in the Close (which I loved when he was younger), I have decided I need a soft structured carrier asap (I want to order tonight if possible!)

I am an old had at slings - this is baby number 3. But I only have experience of ring slings, stretchy wraps, mei teis (which I hate but dh loves) and the Close.

I want a soft structured one to wear front and back. Something really supportive and that will last me a while as he gets heavier. I am a really large sized woman (outwards not upwards!) if that is relevant.

I know nothing - please reommend one!

I used the ergo carrier until dd2 was two and a half, carrying her on my back, which I found very comfortable.

I have just ordered a Freedom sling www.freedomslings.co.uk/Freedom%20Sling.htm

go for a Connecta. They have been reviewed on MN .

ergo, the best

www.babytrekker.com These are great - used mine with my daughter first front, then back until she was four. Portable when you're not using it, washable, the works.
I think it's similar to an ergo, but aren't they a bit dodgy ethically? Tried to stop small home producers making similar slings or something? Sure I read it on MN . . .

I am 'larger' too and found both connecta and ergo a bit uncomfy. What about a woven wrap?

You should try them out first before you buy anything. They are an expensive mistake if you don't use it.

Ergo's resale value is huge - you wouldn't lose much on one.

If you need the expansion waist strap, you have to buy it separately with the Ergo, but I think it comes as part of the package with the Patapum (check that though).

I've only got an Ergo and a Yamo - Ergo is better, though Yamo is nicer to adjust for breastfeeding.

Agree with noimnotstressed that a woven wrap is even better, support-wise. I have a Storchenwiege Leo and it's by far the best for heavy lifting (hot in summer though)

You could also hire from Slingjax before you buy?

Thanks everyone. I hate wraps - just too much material for me. Makes me hot all the time.

Someone pointed me in the direction of the Beco which has lovely patterns. I spoke to a sling seller and the waist measurement is big enough for me without any extender belts or anything. She also said that I can return it within a couple of days if I don't like it.

So unless someone comes on here and says there are aweful, I think I will go for one of those.

Would you consider 2nd hand? That way you save a significant amount in the purchase price, try it for as long as you like and if it doesn't work out you can sell it for what you paid.

The UKbabywearingSWAP mailgroup and NaturalMamas forum are both good places to have a look.

Good luck

Ooh, ooh, get the Beco! I totally love mine, really well made, nice and soft but good design and clips, etc. I'm generous up top - 16-18 - and it's v comfy. I can carry my 2.8yo and my 1yo in it.

Is it Sarah at naturalconnection.com? I got mine from there and she was great. I ordered a different one (name escapes me) and chose between them.

Nope - it was slumber roo.

Ok, I am decided. About to order!

Ilana

Fab - let us know how you get on with it. I've got the plain brown so it's DP-friendly. Is it wrong to consider having a third DC just to get to use the newborn bit?