Moby wrap? Ergo carrier? Zolowear? Maya sling? Others?
Have you used one of these? Did you like it? Would you recommend it? Have you used more than one? how did they compare?
I have five kids and a newborn and need to be able to use my hands but my little one only wants to be held 100% of the time and that's just not doable with five other kids. I have a Snugli carrier but it hurts my back so I'm looking for something more comfortable for me and baby. Plus, I don't want to spend a lot of money as this is my last child. I'm actually looking for a used one online and these are some that I've come across.
Thanks!
?2013-04-08T11:16:00Z
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This all depends a lot on you and your baby. You might want to see if there is a baby wearing group in your area that provides a lending library to try things out so you can see what works for you. I loved my stretchy wrap with my second baby (Moby style, but made at home.) The trouble with stretchy wraps is that they can begin to hurt your back after baby is about 10 - 15 pounds. Woven wraps are more expensive, but last later into toddlerhood. Ring style slings can last from infancy through toddlerhood, but can put uneven pressure on the back. Everyone has a different style that works best for them, you've just got to try out a bunch of stuff to see what's best for you.
I tried out tons of different carriers when my daughter was born. Originally I wanted a Baby Bjorn and someone actually gave me one at my baby shower so I was so excited. Unfortunately even though it had "added support" straps that went around my lower back, it still felt like wearing a ten pound necklace. I was also bulky and I was limited in how it could be used to carry her. I ended up returning it and after that I tried a few other similar carriers made by Kelty and a generic brand (which I actually liked the best of that type carrier). Then a friend let me try her Maya Wrap and after using it I was in love! I was concerned that it would be too tough on my back (I have pretty bad back problems) but It gave me so many options of ways to carry my daughter, like the regular cradle style as an infant or for naps and (her favorite) the "kangaroo" carry that allowed her to sit kind of cross-legged facing forward so she could see really well. Then, when she got older I used it as a hip carrier which was great because it left my hands-free for whatever else a busy single mom has to do. It has a wide padded shoulder so it doesn't dig into your skin and, being a "ring sling" it is simple to adjust without any help. Best of all the was they are made, they distribute the weight of the child really well so there is no major stress on any one part of your back. I also loved that it was all fabric so I could shove it in a big purse/baby bag, under a stroller... wherever - or even use it as an impromptu light blanket! Oh, one more thing, their customer service was incredible - which makes a big difference if you ever have to deal with the company for anything. And - being Made in the USA was important to me as well. Good luck hun! Cheers!
I have a Snugli, Baby Bjorn and Ergo. I also have something else, either Maya or Zolo or maybe both that were given to me.
I love the Snugli, Baby Bjorn and Ergo carriers because I "feel" as if the baby is safe in them. The latter two are bulkier though, but imo, the Baby Bjorn somewhat helps with posture.
I tried either the Maya or Zolo, both "seemed" like fabric, and the one has a hooking mechanism that to me "seemed" as if it would slip and not hold and the hanging fabric just seemed to me to be in the way. But that is just my impression of those.
But, what I can say is the latter two might work out best if you are just at home and while baby is small if you are just looking for something around the house.
I can't say enough about a Mei Tai carrier. You can even find instructions to make one online if you know how to sew (or if you know someone who does). This carrier lasts from newborn through preschool (which is great for carrying piggyback on longer walks, trips to the zoo, etc.).