Wallypop: Wallypop Babywearing: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Please note, the term "sling" is used throughout this document to mean "any type of fabric baby carrier" such as a ring sling, pouch, mei tai, wrap, podegi, onbu, etc. We are aware that many people use the term "sling" to mean solely a ring sling these days, but that's not our intended meaning herein.

What is babywearing?
Why should I wear my baby?
Are there safety concerns with slings?
Will I spoil my baby?
How do I get used to the sling?
Common Babywearing Myths
Why should I buy a Wallypop sling?
Why use a sling instead of a stroller, car seat, or front pack?
Won't a sling strain my neck or back?
How do I use a sling to shower with my baby?
How do I put this thing on in the car/when it's raining/in public?
How does a sling work with winter coats?
How do I nurse in my sling?
Do you have any super cool pictures of babywearing around the world?

What is babywearing?

Babywearing is simply the ancient practice of wearing your baby next to your body instead of using a car seat or stroller.

"Babywearing often means changing your mindset of what babies are really like. New parents often envision babies as lying quietly in a crib, gazing passively at dangling mobiles and picked up and carried only to be fed and played with and then put down. You may think that "up" periods are just dutiful intervals to quiet you baby long enough to put him down again. Babywearing reverses this view. Carry your baby in a sling many hours a day, and then put her down for sleep times and tend to your personal needs." (Dr. William Sears, renowned pediatrician)

Why should I wear my baby?

No More Stroller Lugging. A stroller and car seat are large, bulky items that a person must heft into and out of the car and maneuver on crowded walkways. A sling, on the other hand, is small, lightweight, and easy to carry with you. Most can be tucked into a diaper bag or purse. This enables you to leave the car seat in the car, where it belongs!

It's a Smarter Purchase! A typical store-bought soft carrier can be worn from birth until about 15 lbs, and can be used in one or two positions. Most slings can be used well into toddlerhood and have dozens of carrying positions to suit you and your baby.

Rest Your Arms. You're likely to end up carrying your baby anyway, so why not get a little help? A sling helps distribute baby's weight and takes some of the strain off of your arms!

Free Hands! The benefits of babywearing are not just for the babies. Parents benefit from having two free hands to tend to older children, tend to their own needs, or even to get some housework or shopping done.

Smarter Babies. Babies who spend less time crying have more quiet alert time, which is the behavioral state in which a baby is best able to interact with - and learn from - the environment. Also, being worn helps a baby's developing brain make the right connections, and provides appropriate stimuli.

Easy Nursing. Nursing moms find that many slings and carriers allow them to nurse discreetly - and hands-free.

Happier Babies. Babies are happier when they are with their parents, when they can hear their mama's heartbeat, and when experiencing the gentle sway of a parent's motions, much like what they experienced in the womb.

Several studies have shown that babies who are carried are quieter and seem happier. A 1986 study reported in Pediatrics magazine found that "infants who received supplemental carrying cried and fussed 43% less overall, and 51% less during the evening hours." The authors of the study concluded that "supplemental carrying modifies 'normal' crying by reducing the duration and altering the typical pattern of crying and fussing. The relative lack of carrying in our society may predispose to crying and colic in normal infants."

Additionally, a worn baby is able to adapt to his new environment more easily. By extending the womb experience through use of a sling, a parent helps baby regulate his or her environment. "If left to his own resources, without the regulating presence of the mother, the infant may develop disorganized patterns of behavior: colicky cries, jerky movements, disorganized self-rocking behaviors, anxious thumb sucking, irregular breathing, and disturbed sleep. The infant, who is forced to self-calm, wastes valuable energy he could have used to grow and develop." (Dr. William Sears)

Are there safety concerns with slings?

Babywearing is generally a very safe activity. However, it does carry risks. Please keep the following safety tips in mind:

1. Make sure your baby has adequate airflow. Do not cover your baby's face. Check on your baby often until you really get the hang of slings!

2. Do not drop your baby! Make sure you hold your baby securely with your arm/arms until they are held securely by the sling. Practice new carriers or carries over a sofa or bed, or at least while kneeling on the ground over a pillow.

3. Babywearing in winter is nice, especially being able to snuggle with baby under your coat. Please don't zip your coat up all the way. Leave it open enough to allow air to reach your baby.

4. Check your sling before every use, after laundering, etc. to make sure the seams are secure and the fabric is sturdy. All weight-bearing seams should be reinforced.

5. Keep a hand on your baby when walking in crowded areas, and be aware of your baby's presence. Every parent eventually bangs their baby's head on something, but try to minimize this by being particularly careful around doors and doorways and while bending or stooping. Use the handrail on stairs.

For more about safe positioning, please check out this link.

Will I spoil my baby?

No. You cannot spoil a baby with love and attention.

How do I get used to the sling?

Sometimes, a baby or a babywearer or both need some time to get used to a sling. Start slowly. Pick a time when baby's happy, and put baby in the sling. Make sure baby's comfortable and that you're moving (if that's what baby likes). Wear the sling for 5-10 minutes or however long you're both comfortable and happy. Do this several times a day, aiming to lengthen the amount of time slightly each time you wear the carrier.

If the problem is more that you need to get comfortable getting baby in and out with minimal crying, consider practicing first with a doll or stuffed animal, just to get the feel of the movements you'll be using when handling your actual baby. When you're practicing with your real baby, keep in mind that babies generally don't have a high tolerance for the getting in/getting out process.

 

Common Babywearing Myths

Myth: I can't use a sling because I have a bad back.

Try several different carriers before you write them off altogether. Because many types of slings balance baby's weight over both shoulders, and even onto the hips, many parents, even those with bad backs, find they can comfortably wear their babies.

Myth: If I wear my baby, he will get spoiled and will not learn to be independent.

On the contrary, many babies who are worn in slings feel more confident. Knowing that mom or dad is always willing to hold him when he needs it allows many babies to more confidently explore their world independently.

Myth: I'm afraid I'll hurt my baby.    My baby looks squished or uncomfortable.   Can my baby breathe in there?

Many parents worry about squishing their baby in a sling. Remember that your baby has been "squished" inside the womb for a long time, and has grown accustomed to being in a small space. However, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your baby. Make sure they have adequate airflow, that their face isn't buried in a sling or covered by fabric, and that they are breathing easily. For more information, see Proper Infant Positioning.

That said, please keep an eye on your baby, especially tiny newborns. Make sure they have adequate airflow. Make sure they are breathing easily, and not struggling to breathe. 

Myth: Using a sling looks too complicated!

Not at all! As with anything, it takes some practice and experience to become completely comfortable. Many websites offer instructions on wearing your sling. If you find the instructions to be confusing or prefer personal demonstrations, don't hesitate to find resources local to you for hands-on support. You might also check YouTube and the podcast listings at ITunes for free videos of babywearing demonstrations.

Myth: I tried a sling once and my baby hated it - or I hated it.

Just like any new experience, sometimes babies (and parents) need to try a sling several times before it is comfortable. Try several different carrying positions - or even several different carriers - before making a final decision.

Myth: I received a soft carrier as a gift, and found it to be too complicated or uncomfortable. 

A soft front carrier like a Snugli can be a great tool for parents, but more traditional slings do have several advantages. Slings are much more portable, less bulky, more adjustable, easier to breastfeed in, and have a longer useful life - parents are often able to carry their toddler well into their third year.  Additionally, more traditional slings support baby's developing spine and hips by keeping them at an angle from the body, rather than dangling straight down.

Why should I buy a Wallypop sling?

Here at Wallypop, we believe in making quality baby carriers at an affordable price. Yes, there are prettier slings out there (though we can make them plenty pretty, too). Yes, there are more expensive carriers out there. Yes, there are fancier carriers out there. But we at Wallypop strive to make high-quality slings and carriers that regular folks can easily afford.

Why use a sling instead of a stroller, car seat, or front pack?

First, there's the convenience factor. A stroller and car seat are large, bulky items that a person must heft into and out of her car (or on to and off of public transit). A sling, on the other hand, is small, lightweight, and easy to carry with you.

Besides that, though, babies just plain like to be carried. Several studies have shown that babies who are carried are quieter and seem happier. A 1986 study reported in Pediatrics magazine found that "infants who received supplemental carrying cried and fussed 43% less overall, and 51% less during the evening hours." The authors of the study concluded that "supplemental carrying modifies 'normal' crying by reducing the duration and altering the typical pattern of crying and fussing. The relative lack of carrying in our society may predispose to crying and colic in normal infants."

Additionally, Dr. Sears, renowned pediatrician, says that babies who are carried not only cry less, but also learn more, are more "organized," are "humanized" earlier, and are even smarter!

Of course, I am not advocating forgoing a car seat while baby is riding in a moving vehicle. Car seats belong in cars, though. They function best as car seats - and other things like slings function better for baby carriers.

I'll note here also that I once received an email from a person who lives in Europe. She could not believe that I was implying that people ever would carry around a baby in their infant car seat. It was completely odd to her. She even asked "why would somebody want to haul around such a heavy and awkward piece of equipment?" And I have to say, I agree!

Front packs like a Baby Bjorn, Snugli, or any other similar carriers have their own concerns. Front carriers put your baby's spine into an unnatural and potentially harmful position. Not to mention - can you imagine how odd it must feel to be suspended by your crotch?

Additionally, front carriers aren't as portable as a sling since they don't squish into your diaper bag very easily. They're not good for breastfeeding in. They're not as adjustable (we have a Kelty Kangaroo pack that is too big for me and too small for my husband). They hold baby away from a parent, not snuggled close. And they're usually outgrown within a year, whereas a sling can last throughout the toddler years.

Won't a sling strain my neck or back?

Actually, no. And I personally find it much easier on my muscles than lugging the car seat around or holding a squirmy toddler! If you're using your sling or carrier correctly, it won't hurt at all. If you're using a ring or pouch sling, make sure the fabric is spread over the ball of your shoulder and across your back, not all bunched up near your neck or in a tight, thin wad across your back. If you're using a wrap or any carrier with straps, make sure the straps are not wadded, bunched, or twisted. If wearing your baby hurts, then there is a problem that should be solved! Please contact us or find a local babywearing group for hands-on help.

 

How do I use a sling to shower with my baby?

Carriers made of solarveil or mesh are great for use in the shower! But showering with baby in a sling does take some special precautions and techniques.

You can begin showering with your baby as soon as you are comfortable, and depending on your choices regarding cord stump care. When carrying a baby in the shower, I recommend a tummy-to-tummy front carry or a hip carry. Cradle carries can increase the likelihood of water getting into baby's mouth or nose while breathing, and back carries do not allow enough eyes-on supervision. Always be aware of where your baby's face is, and take care that she is not breathing in water and that water is not pooling near her face. Use a cooler temperature than you might normally if you were showering alone - baby's skin is so much more sensitive to hot water than your skin is. Also be aware of the things that are within an older baby's reach in the shower, and move any items you do not want her grabbing.

Start out by getting the water a nice temperature and placing baby securely in your carrier. Get your head and hair wet by leaning back into the spray, letting the water run off your back and not into baby's face. If you shampoo your own hair, consider turning around so the water keeps baby warm and gently massaged while you shampoo. Keep your head tilted back to keep excess soap off baby's face. (if you have a lot of excess soap, cut back on the amount of shampoo you use!) Turn around to rinse, keeping your head tipped back and the water running down your back, keeping the shampoo off your baby's face.

If you use conditioner, turn back around and apply that, then wash yourself as needed. Go ahead and wash your baby at this point, as well. You should be able to wash them right through the carrier, as well as being able to reach inside to get the little hidden bits. Take advantage of the fact that water runs all over, and let some soapy water run down between you and baby. Just take care to keep soap out of baby's face!

Rinse yourself and baby, carefully turning to get the soap rinsed off but baby's face out of the water. Rinse conditioner off your hair.

At this point, the choice is yours. Some women prefer to leave their carriers on, wrap up in a towel or terrycloth robe, and let themselves dry a bit before unwrapping the carrier. Some parents prefer to take the carrier off, then towel dry. Whatever works best for you.

Please note that if you have a very chubby baby who tends to need the deep crevices of her fat rolls cleaned out on a fairly regular basis, you may find that you still need to wash baby separately to really get into all the folds.

How do I put this thing on in the car/when it's raining/in public?

Let's say it's raining, or it's freezing, and you're in the car, and you want to go to the store and do some shopping with your baby. You can either put your carrier on in the car, or you can just grab the carrier and the baby, run inside, and put it on there. If you decide to go the put-it-on-in-the-car route, you'll just need to make yourself a bit of room. It's not always easy, and it's not always non-awkward, but every carrier can be put on while seated in a car. You'll probably find that you need to untie and adjust (or just adjust) when you get inside.

Many times, I would have the carrier already on, and decided it was easier to just grab the baby and dash inside, then worry about getting the baby in the carrier once I got inside. This is a little easier, particularly if you have a small baby, than trying to start from scratch inside the store.

As for putting a sling on in public...just pretend that you don't notice the stares. Keep in mind that people watching are generally being admiring, not critical, and they think you're wonderfully skilled, even if you feel awkward.

How does a sling work with winter coats?

Most carriers are very flexible when it comes to winter wearing. You have basically two options:

1. Wear baby inside your coat. Put the sling on before you put your coat on. Slip baby inside the carrier and pull your coat snugly around you both, making sure baby gets enough air. We found this to be perfect for both errand running (involving a lot of in and out) and for walks outside. I got to keep my baby nice and snug next to me, I knew he was warm enough, and there wasn't a whole lot of excess bulk.
2. Wear baby outside your coat. Make sure, first, that baby is dressed plenty warmly. Put on your coat, then put on your carrier. Depending on the bulk of your (and baby's) coats, you might find that your carrier doesn't fit as well as it used to! Most carriers will be fine, though, unless you have a particularly bulky coat.
3. There are now several options for special babywearing coats or ponchos on the market, which can be particularly useful for back carries outside in the winter. We never found one necessary, preferring instead to just slip Wally inside my own coat, but many people find them to be really handy.

How do I nurse in my sling?

Easy! You can nurse in a cradle hold in a ring sling, pouch, or wrap. Simply adjust baby's position until his face is near the level of your breast. Pull the sling fabric out of the way, pull up your shirt, and go for it. You'll usually be able to position the outer rail of the carrier such that it's hard to tell exactly what you're doing.

You can nurse with baby sitting up in a ring sling, pouch, wrap, Mei Tai, Onbuhimo, or Patapum. Lower baby so that his mouth is level with your nipple, lift your shirt, and latch on. You should be able to position the rest of the carrier to hide your exposed breast from prying eyes. (Your shirt will also provide coverage.) I found I was able to nurse truly hands-free only in this seated position.

Wearing two T-shirts or a stretchy undershirt will help keep your stomach covered up while nursing, thus increasing the stealthiness.

Do you have any super cool pictures of babywearing around the world?

Why, I do happen to have some pretty awesome links here.
Inuit Mom
South African Woman