How to wear your sling

Many different websites and manufacturers have links to instructions for using carriers on the internet. It is useful to read a few of these before attempting to use a new carrier as you can pick up hints and tips that may not be included in the manufacturer's instructions.

By far and away the best and most comprehensive guide to using any type of carrier is the collection of articles at The Babywearer - a fantastic website devoted to promoting babywearing. The forums are also a great source of independent information and support.

Important safety information: Many babies like being carried in the cradle position when younger. It is important that you ensure that their airway remains unobstructed if you carry your baby in this position. The following links will show you how to use this carrying position safely:

Fantastic safety tips from UpMama.com

Babywearing Safety Article at thebabywearer.com (opens as a .pdf document)

There is also now an excellent new resource - the Tummy2Tummy DVD which you can purchase from Big Mama Slings. Below are some video clip samples from the DVD:

Instructions for the kangaroo carrying position with a pouch sling

Instructions for the tummy to tummy carrying position (legs in) with a ring sling

Some of these instructions require Adobe Reader - click to download

Ring Slings

By Manufacturer:

Zolowear - Excellent illustrations and videos, covering all positions. Highly recommended.

Mayawrap - Videos showing how to thread and use the popular Mayawrap Ring Sling.

Rockin' Baby Ring Slings - Shows the different carrying positions suitable with the sling.

TaylorMade Ring Slings - Very clear instructions, viewable online.

Oopa Baby - Online instructions with useful tips and tricks.

Others:

The Mamatoto Project - Ring sling section of this advocacy website. Also has a great selection of sling carrying instruction videos here - scroll down for the ring slings.

Sleeping Baby Productions - Download pdf instructions from a fantastic manufacturer and babywearing guru. We like these and we like her!

Wraparound Slings

Didymos - Step-by-step instructions from the manufacturer of the most popular woven wraparound. Many variations included.

Storchenwiege - Not instructions, but a great gallery of photos from the US distributor showing all the different carrying positions and colourways.

Calin Bleu - Photo instructions showing all the carrying positions recommended by the manufacturer

Bara Barn - Download a pdf file of the instructions for this rebozo length carrying shawl from Sweden

easycare - Easy to use picture instructions, including the innovative 'Quick Fix' system

Hug-a-bub - Basic photos showing how to put on the sling and a basic carrying position. The sling is sold with an excellent DVD/video - please contact us if you require a replacement copy at a small charge.

Tricot-Slen - Download a pdf file of the instructions for this sling

Others:

Elly's Rebozo Page - Great instructions for tying and wearing the shorter or Rebozo style wraps.

How to Tie a Slip-Knot - Short video showing how to tie a slip-knot/sailor's knot.

Soft Carriers

The Ergo Baby Carrier - Various instructions to download from the manufacturer of this popular baby carrier. Also includes video instructions.

Beco Pack Baby Carrier - Pdf instruction booklet for this structured soft carrier.

Sutemi Baby Carrier - Picture instructions for this popular US made carrier.

Babyhawk Mei Tai Baby Carrier - Step-by-step photo instructions from the manufacturer of a modern take on the traditional asian carrier

Wilkinet Baby Carrier - Comprehensive video and download instructions

Kozy Carrier - Extensive instructions for achieving most carrying positions using a Mei Tai baby carrier

Others:

Hip slide method for getting a baby on your back - from Little Possums

Fantastic Tips for Mei Tai troubleshooting - from Wrap Your Baby (a great source of carrying tips for other styles of carriers too)

Pouch Slings

Hotslings - Movies and pdf files to achieve all the carrying positions for this popular pouch - including tips on ejection!

Zolowear Adjustable Pouch - Instructions for using this pouch, in movie format.

Peanut Shell - Detailed instructions for different carrying positions as well as tips and safety guidelines


Hip Carriers

Ellaroo Mei Hip - Online step-by-step photo instructions

Hip Hugger - Detailed instructions for fitting and using this unique sling

Hip Hammock (Non-US version) - Basic instructions. Please note this is the non-Playtex version for sale outside the US that we provide for hire.

Please contact us if you wish to be added to our sling wearing page