Baby sling or baby carrier? Tying techniques & advantages compared

Your little miracle is finally here! And suddenly everything is different. Alongside all the joyful moments, there are also countless questions: What's best for my baby? How can I best manage everyday life with a child? One increasingly popular answer is the baby carrier. Especially in Switzerland, more and more parents are rediscovering the advantages of this traditional companion.

Why a baby carrier? More than just "practical"

Sure, a baby carrier is incredibly practical. You have your hands free for the dishwasher, shopping, or grabbing a coffee with a friend. But a baby carrier can do so much more!

• Closeness and security: Your baby feels your heartbeat, your warmth, your movements. This provides comfort and strengthens the bond between you. Perfect for little "high-need" babies or when your baby simply needs closeness.
• Ergonomic position: In the baby carrier, your baby sits in the frog-leg position. This is great for hip development and provides optimal support for the baby's rounded back.
• Pure flexibility: Whether hiking in the mountains, strolling through the city or using public transport – with the baby carrier you are flexible on the go, without the stress of a stroller.
• Sustainability: A baby carrier is a sustainable alternative to many other baby products. It is durable, often made from natural materials, and can be passed down from generation to generation.
• Style factor: Baby slings come in all colors and patterns. They're almost an accessory that elevates your outfit!
  
  

Baby sling vs. baby carrier: What's the difference?

You might be wondering: baby sling or baby carrier? Both have their merits. Baby carriers are often easier to put on, especially for dads. But a baby sling is more versatile and adapts perfectly to both you and your baby. It's like a custom-made hug! For newborns and small babies, a baby sling is often the first choice because it's simply cozier and provides better support.

Tying a baby sling – not as difficult as it looks!

Yes, tying a baby wrap can be a little tricky at first. But don't worry, with a little practice you'll quickly get the hang of it! There are many tying techniques, but we'll show you two that are great for beginners:

1. The wrap cross carry (WXT): The classic

The wrap cross carry is the carrying technique for newborns and small babies. It is super comfortable and provides good support.

• Step 1: Prepare the wrap: Take your baby wrap and find the center. Mark the center with a sticker or small button.
• Step 2: Finding the center: Place the center of the cloth on your sternum. The ends of the cloth go over your shoulders and back.
• Step 3: Form a cross: The ends of the cloth cross at the back and then go forward over your shoulders.
• Step 4: Place the baby: Carefully lift your baby onto your chest and support it well.
• Step 5: Tighten and tie: Pull the strands of fabric taut and tie them together under the baby's ear. Important: The fabric must be taut, but not constricting!

A detailed video tutorial from the well-known brand Didymos.

2. The kangaroo carrier: For hip-watchers

The kangaroo carrier is great when your baby is a little older and likes to explore the world. They can then stick their head out and look around.

• Steps 1 & 2: As with the wrap cross carry.
• Step 3: Fan out the cloth: Fan the cloth out in front of your chest so that it has a wide surface.
• Step 4: Place the baby in the cradle: Place your baby in the fabric cradle so that it is sitting in a squatting position.
• Step 5: Tighten and tie: Pull the upper and lower strands of fabric tight and tie them together on your back.

Video tutorial from the Storchenwiege brand on YouTube.

Tips & tricks for babywearing pros

• Practice makes perfect: At first, tie the baby carrier in front of a mirror or with a teddy bear. It takes some time until it slides smoothly.
• Babywearing consultation: There are excellent babywearing consultants in Switzerland who can help you. Worth it!
• Material selection: Lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton are perfect for summer. Warm, cozy fleece is ideal for winter.
• Safety first: Always make sure your baby can breathe freely and isn't squeezed too tightly. Their face should always be unobstructed.
• Position: The baby should always be in the frog-leg position with its back rounded. The head should be supported, especially in newborns.
• Pull the wrap taut: A baby wrap must be taut, otherwise the baby will slip off and it will be uncomfortable for you and your child.
• Patience: Every baby is different. Some love the baby carrier from the start, others need some time to get used to it. Give yourselves time!

Conclusion: Babywearing – a love story for parents and baby

A baby carrier is more than just a practical aid. It's a way to enjoy being close to your baby, to make everyday life easier, and to look stylish too!

So, you've become a babywearing fan, but you're still unsure which wrap is right for you? With the Medibino baby wrap from loopi.ch, you definitely can't go wrong! This wrap is not only incredibly comfortable to tie, but also super practical for when you're out and about. Thanks to the included pouch, you can easily store it away and always have your hands free for all your other adventures with your baby.