How to Tie a Baby Sling

Carrying a baby all the time can be tiring, not to mention impractical. That is why baby carriers and slings were invented. Baby slings are really just large pieces of soft but sturdy material that you wrap around your shoulder and torso and tie. The baby then happily rests in the middle of the sling and your hands are freed up while you keep the baby protected and with you at all times. Tying the sling correctly is important to learn so the baby doesn't fall out or the sling doesn't untie. It's an easy process that just requires a little practice.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 5-foot-long piece of fabric
• Scissors
• Baby

1. Choose a sturdy fabric that is durable enough to be washed and pulled at without tearing but is also soft. Purchase 5 feet of this material and make sure it is about 16 to 20 inches wide. Trim the strings and loose ends off the fabric so there aren't any strays.

2. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise to find the center. Take the center and wrap the fabric around your stomach just above your hips. Wrap the ends around your back.

3. Cross the two ends of fabric across your back in an "X" shape so the fabric ends come over the opposite shoulders.

4. Place the baby's legs and bottom in the wrapped fabric around your waist so the baby faces you. Take the two ends you brought over your shoulders and cross them across the baby's back. Make sure you keep the fabric wide so it covers a larger surface area and doesn't bunch up.

5. Take the two ends and pull them snugly around your back. Make sure the baby is close to your chest and secure. Tie the ends in a double knot behind your back. If the fabric begins to bunch up, simply pull out the ends and flatten the fabric out so it securely holds the baby and evenly distributes the weight across your body.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice tying the sling on someone else a few times to get the hang of it.
• Don't loosen the knots while the baby is in the sling.