slings/baby carriers - help a clueless first timer?

[minipie]

Hi, I'm expecting DC1 later this year and trying to work out what to get in the way of sling or baby carrier.

I think I would prefer a baby carrier type rather than stretchy or ring sling style - for two reasons, 1 I would prefer the secure feeling of something structured/not worry about whether I have tied it right and 2 DH will probably not wear a stretchy one.

However, I have a few questions!

Can baby carriers be worn round the house (if DC feels clingy or if I do) or is a stretchy/ring style much better for this?

Is a second hand one ok or will it have absorbed lots of dribble/vom/food etc?

Can anyone recommend a baby carrier? It needs to be suitable from birth, forward or backwards facing and very adjustable (I am 5' 3 and very small framed, DH is 6'3). I would also prefer it if most of the weight was carried on my hips rather than my shoulders.

So far I am thinking of Baby Bjorn or Wilkinet but haven't really done much research.

Thank you!

The Close carrier is a great intro to slings. It's so easy to slip on quickly and get baby in there. Most of the colours are pretty dad friendly too and DH happily wears ours. Once you get used to it and adjust it properly it's comfortable and DS is so snug in ours. They say they can be used from 5lb, so from birth for most babies (and I guess most preemies would be that when discharged from hospital?). It packs up nicely in its own pouch and is easy to keep in the car or under the pushchair if you're out and about and want to carry them. Yes, there is a lot of fabric hanging when it's on but you can tuck it in to be a bit neater. I get positive comments on it everywhere I go.

I got a stretchy wrap from Victoria Slinglady, arrived today. It's actually really easy to tie a stretchy wrap and it's a bit more supportive and comfortable for me than the Close. I'll probably wear it around the house so I can pop DS in and out as necessary, but if we're going out in the pushchair I'll take the Close as it's a lot easier to put on when out and about.

If I keep on using the sling with DS (if we are both still happy with it), I quite fancy getting a Boba 3G later on. Looks so easy to put on and easily adjusted between DH and I. Most reviews can't seem to find anything negative to say about it. A shop near me stocks it so I might need to pay it a visit.

Glad all is well LittleLamb, I was on the May antenatal thread with you. We've got a thread in postnatal now if you want to find us.

Ooh thanks Wrigglebum, I'll pop over and find you :)