Anyone used an onbuhimo

[muslimah28]

How does it compare to a mei tai (which I have)? Looks easier to put on is that right? Is it as well supported though?

Thanks

Sorry, no advice (I came here because I thought you were asking about the generic meaning of 'onbuhimo', a Japanese word for a length of fabric for carrying babies on the back) rather than a particular branded carrier.

I'd be interested to hear any responses, though!

Wow. Hasn't heard of one! I would think that unless you're used to wrapping and balancing baby while you deal with the fabric one handed,, the mei tai would be easier because the base is pre-tied and as baby is partially supported by the waist tie, it's a bit easier to tie. But having said that, the onbu looks enticing because there's so much less fabric involved! The only other concern id have is whether the rings would dig into your waist? Any idea where to get one in the uk? I have a hop-tai that I love and a couple of DIY mei tais, and definitely found mei tais easier than wraps.

My Japanese MIL whipped up something to carry (then) 13 month old DS on her back out of two scarves and a crocheted blanket last time we were out there, and then carried him around for 90 mins on her back while he slept. She's 64! And awesome.

She's so careful and tactful though that I never even realised she could do it until then. Next time I'm getting a tutorial! What an amazing skill to pass on.

Quick qu: has anyone heard of/ used a Sanama? It's another back carrier based on African traditions that looks great and v little fabric.

Sorry, Sanamama. Missed a syllable.

If you look at the photos of it's construction the sanamama is pretty much a narrow based carrier with a bit of fabric over the top. It might be hard to get that knee to knee support. Have you thought of something like a manduca soft carrier?

Thanks shuckle. I hadn't, no. Never got the hang of back carrying with DS but no. 2 is on the way and I will need my hands...

Sorry for the hijack OP?

chieftittifur no problem:) actually it was the generic kind I'm interested in. It seems easier to put on than a mei tai. I love my mei tai but I get self conscious tying it in public. I have a boba 3G for this purpose now and mei tai is for home use but came across this onbuhimo yesterday and am curious how it compares as it seems it doesn't involve the tying!

I honestly think an onbuhimo is more tricky to tie than a mei tai, because the bottom of the carrier isn't secure (in the way that the waistband on a mei tai is) until you have fastened the top straps. So you have to ensure the child doesn't slip out downwards. Have only tried one a couple of times but on the whole I'd say a mei tai is more supportive.

I'd just keep practicing with the mei tai - as you get more confident I don't think you'll feel so self conscious in public.

i see what you mean pootlebug that makes a lot of sense actually.

are there tricks to avoid having to swing around the long straps while tying? that was the bit i was self conscious about. also i could never tie the mei tai without getting the straps on the floor/ground which when out meant it got a bit dirty especially in bad weather.

at the moment the mei tai and boba are the cupboard while 3wo dd is happily using my stretchy wrap (at home) and close carrier (for out- same reason as above for having two slings for home and about!), but i'm just thinking ahead really for in a few months time when we switch to the SSCs.

many thanks