In recent years, baby slings have seen a resurgence in interest, offering parents a gentle and natural alternative to carrying their baby while having their hands free. More than an accessory, baby slings have become an essential part of the baby kit .
But with so many models available, it's not always easy to find the perfect sling, especially when you're looking for a baby sling that's easy to put on and suitable for beginners . So, what are the criteria to consider? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of slings?
In this article, we will take stock of the different baby slings that exist, their advantages and disadvantages, and we will tell you more about the Studio Romeo sling.
Baby slings: which model for which use?
Mei-tai, woven scarf, woven scarf or even Sling scarf, there are several categories of baby carriers . They are distinguished mainly by their length, by the fabric they are made of but also and above all by the knotting method used.
The mei-tai: a baby carrier that evolves from birth
Coming from the Asian tradition, the mei-tai is a compromise between the baby sling and the preformed baby carrier . Unlike classic slings, it consists of a large square of fabric with straps to tie , an adjustable belt and an ergonomic pocket to install baby safely.
Thanks to its knotting system , the mei-tai adapts to the child's morphology and follows its growth from birth. Versatile, it allows several carrying positions: ventral, dorsal or on the hip , thus offering more flexibility to parents, just like the onbuhimo evolving baby carrier .
However, when carrying on the front, it can be less comfortable than some more enveloping wraps. In addition, although it is easier to use than a long wrap, its knotting requires a little technique at the beginning.
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Advantages: Easy to put on, suitable for different ages of baby.
- Disadvantages: Less comfortable when carrying on the front, requires a little technique to tie correctly.
Cotton or jersey baby slings: comfort and versatility
Cotton or jersey baby slings are models several meters long, designed to be tied around the wearer and the baby. Thanks to their soft and breathable fabric , they guarantee physiological carrying , respecting the child's natural position while ensuring good support.
One of their main assets is their versatility : they offer up to six carrying positions , allowing parents to adapt the carrying according to the baby's age and their own comfort. In addition, they ensure great freedom of movement , both for the adult and the child.
However, these scarves require some learning to tie , which can be difficult for beginners. It is therefore advisable to find out more before purchasing: some scarves are easier to handle than others, thanks to an adapted length and a simplified knotting system .
Without technical knowledge, it is not easy to use traditional baby slings or to ensure that the baby is properly installed and sufficiently supported in his baby sling. If you are looking for a simple, reassuring and quick to set up baby sling solution: we will give you other options right after!
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Advantages : Allows up to 6 carrying positions, is suitable for different ages of baby and is made of both pleasant and stretchy material.
- Cons : Requires learning how to tie the wrap properly for safe carrying.
Cross-twill woven scarves: optimal support and comfort
Cross-twill woven wraps are particularly appreciated for their robustness and excellent support . Thanks to their tight and resistant weave , they offer optimal comfort for both the baby and the wearer, while ensuring even weight distribution .
Unlike cotton or jersey wraps , which are often stretchier and more suitable for newborns, woven wraps are stiffer and more durable , allowing for better long-term support, even with a heavier baby.
Longer than other models, they allow several types of carrying: front, back or on the hip . This versatility makes it an ideal option to accompany baby from birth to early childhood.
However, these scarves require learning how to tie them , which can seem complex for beginners. It is therefore recommended to practice or take a workshop to master the different techniques and take full advantage of their benefits.
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Advantages : Versatile sling, suitable for different ages and weights of baby, great durability.
- Disadvantages : Requires some mastery of knots, sometimes complicated, can be bulky.
Skin-to-skin headbands: is it a baby sling?
Skin-to-skin wraps are designed to promote direct contact between parent and baby, providing warmth, comfort and security. However, they are not a substitute for a baby sling and should never be used to carry baby in an upright position.
Unlike baby slings , these bands are not designed to support the baby's weight securely. Their use is strictly reserved for moments of rest , in a sitting or lying position, where the parent's body provides natural support for the infant.
For safe everyday carrying, it is better to opt for a suitable baby sling , which offers better support and respects the child's physiological posture.
Our recommendation: The sling scarf, a simple, quick and knot-free solution
Unlike other baby slings, the advantage of the sling is the absence of knots when installing it . It is a baby sling with rings that allow you to adjust its length and hold the sling without it slipping (and without having to use knots).
This is what makes this baby sling super easy to use for young parents, without sacrificing the comfort or safety of their baby.
This asymmetrical baby carrier is renowned for its quick and intuitive installation , appreciated by many parents. It can be used by your newborn from birth, and up to 9 months (or 10kg). Its shape allows it to respect the physiological position of the newborn and to adapt to the child's growth over time, which makes it a fairly versatile carrying method, which you can use for a long time.
Studio Romeo sling scarves are not woven but knitted with organic cotton. This is what makes it possible to obtain a naturally soft and sufficiently elastic material, without harmful substances such as elastane.
How to use your Sling: adjusting your sling
Adjusting a sling baby carrier is very simple and allows you to adapt to different carrying positions:
- Pass the end of the fabric through both rings and bring it back through one ring, like a belt buckle.
- Put one arm and then your head through the sling and let it rest on your shoulder. Make sure the fabric in the back is spread out well before giving the sling some slack to place the baby in.
- Place your baby on top of your shoulder and slide him into the sling in a sitting position. The sling should go under his knees and be spread out across his back, all the way to the top of his neck.
- When the baby is in a physiological position, you can gently pull on the end of the sling to adjust it. Be careful that the buckle is located under your collarbone.
- To loosen the sling, hold your baby and lift the visible ring.
You can find all the details of the sling installation as well as video tutorials on our page dedicated to tutorials for putting on a sling .
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Sling?
The advantages of the Sling
The Sling baby carrier has many advantages, starting with its ease of installation . Unlike traditional slings that require tying, the Sling can be put on and adjusted quickly thanks to its rings , thus offering an intuitive installation and saving valuable time for parents in a hurry.
In terms of comfort , the Sling perfectly respects baby's physiology and ensures a physiological carrying position that respects the child's body and growth. It allows an M-position (legs bent and raised), essential for preventing malformations and reducing the risk of hip dysplasia . This ergonomic carrying provides the child with optimal support while supporting their natural growth.
Another major advantage: its practicality . Light and space-saving, the Sling folds easily and fits into any bag. It is one of the most compact baby carriers , perfect for everyday travel.
Breastfeeding mothers also appreciate the Sling for its discreet side for breastfeeding in a baby carrier with complete discretion: the fabric panel hides the chest , facilitating breastfeeding in complete privacy , at home or when going out.
Finally, the Sling adapts to all body types . In one size , it is easily adjusted thanks to the rings, allowing several wearers (parents, grandparents, relatives) to use it without size constraints. A significant advantage for sharing carrying with ease .
The Disadvantages of the Sling Scarf
Although it is a simple solution, the sling has some limitations.
Although practical and quick to put on , the Sling scarf is recommended for occasional carrying , not exceeding one to two hours at a time. Its asymmetrical format results in weight being distributed on a single shoulder , which can cause a feeling of discomfort in the event of prolonged use, especially with a heavier baby.
Although the Sling is intuitive to install , it is advisable to take the time to practice the first few days in order to properly adjust the setting and ensure optimal comfort for the wearer and the baby.
To support you, Studio Romeo offers a free physiological babywearing workshop for any purchase of a new baby carrier. This 20-minute video consultation , led by a certified babywearing instructor , allows you to learn how to use your sling properly. You will be able to reproduce the gestures live and benefit from personalized advice to optimize your experience.
Finally, this exchange ends with a discussion time , where you can ask all your questions , whether they concern your sling, carrying in general or even parenting.
Are you a young parent and want to embark on the adventure of carrying without complications? Discover our permanent collection of sling scarves and enjoy this accompaniment.
The Sling baby carrier: the choice of simplicity
The sling is an excellent option for parents looking for a simple, secure and comfortable way to carry their baby. Its ease of use makes it a valuable ally in everyday life.
However, it is important to choose a quality sling, made of materials that are respectful of baby's skin, and to be well informed about good babywearing practices. Our blog articles are here to answer your questions and help you choose the best baby carrier to start babywearing .