Baby Carriers - Are They Worth The Money?

Written By Chouhab on vendredi 28 novembre 2008 | 11:57

By Carol J Pearson

Having had children of my own I have experienced a lot of equipment and accessories intended to make caring for babies just a little easier. If I had to do it all over again and was told I could only have one piece of baby equipment, without hesitation, I would choose a baby sling.

Today there are many different types of baby carrier available all with slightly different features. Graco and Baby Bjorn are two of the more fashionable brands. With this type of front baby carrier, two well padded straps go over your shoulders and cross over behind your back. These straps will adapt to allow many different sizes and shapes of wearer. The baby is then slid inside a supportive pocket with leg holes. The baby's final position is against the chest with the feet dangling.

As the baby grows and gets bigger, many carriers will adapt and let the baby face outward. The problem with the front carrier was that it appeared awkward and clumsy to me. If the baby fell asleep while in the carrier, it was difficult to gently remove her to lay her down in a crib.

Also, having your baby in front of you means she is physically in the way. This prevents you from easily performing many common household duties such as preparing meals, cleaning or looking after your other children.

Having struggled with with my first child I was finally introduced to ... cue up the Halleluah chorus ... A BABY SLING!!! There are many different kinds; my favourite sling style was a long piece of fabric that fed through two metal fastening rings, leaving a "tail" of fabric. Very simple with nothing to go wrong.

My absolute favourite was the Maya Wrap with a pocket sewn into the tail, which I used to carry a couple extra diapers and wipes, and often my car keys and wallet! As the baby grew, the sling easily adjusted to accommodate her changing comfort meeds. With this style baby sling, I could carry the baby in almost any position front, side, or back, facing forward or facing me. I was also able to breast feed in a discreet, usually hands free manner, covering any unwitting exposure with the tail piece of the sling, which easily went over my shoulder.

As you can see, I am a bit biased towards using a sling, but the other hands free baby carriers may be absolutely ideal for your needs. Look at all choices and try a few out. Whichever you choose, you will be a happier, more productive new parent as you learn to incorporate the joy of nurturing your newborn with the other long list of tasks that you have.

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