How to Use a Baby Wrap
Our comprehensive guide to baby wearing.
How to wrap a baby sling
Here is one simple example of how to wrap a baby sling:
Place the middle of the fabric snugly against your torso underneath your chest.
Take the ends of the sling and wrap them criss-cross over your back and over each shoulder so the ends of the material lay straight over your chest.
Take the ends and thread them underneath the middle section against your stomach.
Criss-cross them again across your chest and over your shoulders.
Then criss-cross the ends over your back again (steps 4 and 5 can be repeated multiple times depending on the length of the wrap).
Bring the end pieces around the front of your waist and tie them securely around your stomach.
Place your baby’s legs through the gaps in the front of the sling where they can comfortably rest.
Many slings have unique shapes that require specific steps for how to tie them. Others are made to be customizable. These are usually designed as long, durable cloths that can be tied in multiple different ways. Of course, there are many ways to tie a sling depending on the material, whether they include rings or snaps, and your personal preference.
How to choose the best baby wrap
Choosing the best baby wrap for you and your little one can be a fun and empowering experience. Keep in mind that you may find you need more than one to accommodate every situation. For example, the wrap you use on your everyday walks may not be the same one you’ll be most comfortable in on an airplane. Here are a few applications you may want to consider:
Shower sling for baby
Wearing a waterproof shower sling for baby baths can help familiarize your little one with water and bath time at an early age! They’re great for wearing in the shower, but are also awesome for early trips to the pool, beach, or park fountain for some summer fun!
Crochet baby sling
If you’re looking for a super comfortable option for both you and your little one, a crochet baby sling is a wonderful choice! You can even crochet your own sling wrap by following a pattern. There are tons of cute DIY designs you can access for free on Pinterest and Etsy.
Baby airplane sling
Flying with a baby is notoriously difficult. But there are many ways to make the journey easier and more comfortable for you and your little one. You can buy a travel-safe baby airplane sling that comes with special straps that you can attach to the seat in front of you, so that your baby can sleep in your lap without your arms for support.
Baby bath sling
A baby bath sling is a great option for babies that get fussy or wiggly during bath time. Some of these slings can be placed in the sink or in a full-sized tub, and others come with their own specialized tubs that you can fill with water to make them even more convenient.
Baby wraps for summer
The only problem with baby wraps is that they can cause you to overheat in the warmer months. That’s why the best baby wraps for summer are made out of lightweight materials like jersey, linen, or modal. Look for light fabrics like these that are sturdy but not too thick.
Shopping cart baby sling
The baby seats in shopping carts are uncomfortable and sometimes even unsanitary. A shopping cart baby sling is designed to fit securely in your cart, acting as a cozy little hammock for your baby.
Newborn baby wrap instructions
The baby wrap has been used for centuries, from ancient societies to the current celebrity baby wearing trend. They're a great way to keep your baby close and your hands free. When you’re caring for an infant, it can be hard to get anything done or leave the house without a big hassle. Strollers are great, but they can be bulky and time-consuming to deal with in some situations. Baby wearing wraps are a great alternative when you want to hold your baby close to your chest when you’re out and about.
Baby sling wraps can be a great solution in a variety of situations, including at get-togethers with family and friends, on trail hikes (when your stroller can’t handle the terrain), when you’re cooking or cleaning, or while working at your computer.
The advantages of baby wearing wraps
They provide health and psychological benefits to your baby by promoting skin-to-skin contact.
They reduce fussing and crying while facilitating the bonding process.
They encourage breastfeeding.
They take stress and weight off your back and hips, which promotes parent health and wellbeing.
Baby wraps are a convenient and comfortable option for parents, whether you’re on the go or just want to keep your hands free while still keeping your baby close. Of course, the first step is to learn how to wrap a baby sling. This will depend somewhat on the type of sling you want to use, whether you buy from a brand or make your own.
What about twins? Try out tandem baby wearing!
For parents of twins, wraps are a great way to keep your babies close without having to give up the use of your hands. Tandem baby wearing for parents of multiples will require some special adjustments.
There are many wraps and slings you can buy that are specially made to accommodate twin baby wearing. Or you can look into tutorials for how to tie a standard sling so it can handle more than one baby. No matter which route you go, you have the option of double pouches in the front, or one in the front and the back for greater mobility.
Have more questions about how to use a baby wrap? Get in touch!
Finding ways to venture out with your little one is extremely important in the months and years following childbirth; it’s how you and your baby connect with the world. Learning how to use a baby wrap can help you and your child feel comfortable and connected while you explore the world around you.
Contact Wildwood Birth to get in touch with a local Portland doula who can help support you through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum experience.