Using a Sling

There are lots of different techniques in babywearing and even the same carrying position can be achieved in a different way by two different people. All slings are supplied with comprehensive instructions, either in booklet form or on a DVD. Inevitably there is some variation between the instructions from different manufacturers and by searching out some other instructions online, it is possible to pick up tips, and sometimes even carrying positions, that are not included in the instructions that came with your sling or carrier. Luckily, lots of sling users make their own 'How To' videos or photo instructions and this is a very good way to perfect your own technique or even learn a new carry.

Note - when attempting any unfamiliar carry (especially back carries) make sure you have another adult with you to act as a spotter or practise over a soft surface while you are getting used to it.

Big Mama Slings' Using a Sling Page - links to instructions arranged by sling type from many well known sling manufacturers.

The Babywearer: Using a Sling - more links on using your sling than you can shake a stick at!

Tummy2Tummy DVD - a fantastic one-stop resource which gives hints and tips on the different positions and troubleshooting for all types of sling.

Breastfeeding in Slings - our blog article contains lots of links to instructions that focus specifically on positioning your baby to facilitate breastfeeding

Positioning and Safety - a detailed article explaining some troubleshooting tips for comfortable positioning, and safety guidelines.


Instructions by Carrier Type/Position - we've done the hard work for you and found some of the best instructions and sorted them by carrier type and carrying position. Some of these are from a sling manufacturer, others are from avid sling users who have made their own videos or set of photo instructions and uploaded them onto the internet. Some of these videos are not in English but have been included because they are very clear and easy to follow or contain tips and tweaks that are not in other videos.

Any links which have 'TBW' mentioned are from the forums at TheBabywearer.com and in order to view them you must be registered which is free and worth doing as it's the largest sling resource on the internet. This isn't by any means a complete list as it would be impossible to list them all - if you've found any online instructions that you've found useful that we have not included then do let us know.

**When trying out a carrying position in any sling or carrier please keep in mind Safe Positioning especially with cradle carries, and ensure that your baby is not chin-to-chest. 
Also check that the carry you are attempting is suitable for the age of your baby**


Pouches

Ring Slings



Tie-On Soft Carriers (Mei Tai)
There are several different styles of tie-on soft carrier (eg Podaegi, Onbuhimo) however these instructions are all for Mei Tais (MT) as these are the most commonly used.
Buckle Soft Carriers 


        Stretchy Wraparounds
         

        Woven Wraparounds
        There are a lot of different tying methods possible with a woven wrap (many 'invented' by avid wrappers) but basically they all allow you to carry your baby or toddler on your front, back or hip. The list below is long and may seem daunting, however you do not have to master them all in order to be able to use a woven wrap - many people use a woven wrap happily for years and only ever use one or two carrying positions. If you have mastered a carrying position which works for you, great! If the carrying position you have been using isn't working any longer, you need to move to a back carry, or you simply want to try some new tying methods then read on! If you want to learn a new carry it is worth looking at several sets of instructions as each will be slightly different.

        The length of the wrap will dictate which carries you are able to do - a too-long wrap will leave you with excess fabric which may need to be wrapped around your waist one more time or tucked in. If the wrap is too short you will either not be able to do the carry at all or you will be tying right in the 'tails' of the wrap. For a general guide for the length of wrap you need, please see this blog post.


              Hip Carriers

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