How to Compare Reviews of Popular Baby Slings

Slings are a way to keep your baby close.

Baby slings are popular because of their convenience and ease of use. There are several types of slings and several manufacturers, including companies that mostly consist of work-at-home moms. Knowing what you want out of a sling can help you wade through the mountains of sling reviews to determine which sling will work best for you and your baby.

Instructions

1. Determine the type of sling that's being reviewed and whether it's a good fit for you. There are several types of slings, and even baby carriers that aren't slings might still use the word "sling" in their reviews. It's important that you understand what type of sling you'd like and look specifically at that type review. A pouch sling is a sized piece of material that goes around one shoulder and carries the baby in the folds of the fabric. These are often popular, as they're easy to use.

   A ring sling comes as one size, but users can adjust them with a metal ring through which the fabric is threaded. The ring sits on your shoulder. People like these slings because they are easy to use and can be adjusted so more than one person can regularly wear the baby. Some users, though, might find the ring cumbersome and hard to adjust.

   A wrap is sometimes called a sling wrap. These are long pieces of material that are folded around your entire torso to carry your baby upright. While you'll find that they spread weight evenly over your shoulders, which will help your comfort level, they can be hard to learn to tie.

2. Note the reviewed sling's features. Slings come with pockets, toy clips and other decorative and functional items. You can also see what kind of technical support the sling offers. For instance, some come with an instructional DVD and others have websites and online videos to help users troubleshoot.

3. Check for safety information. The Consumer Products Safety Commission recalled a few baby slings for safety reasons. Call the CPSC's recall hotline at [phone] to see if the sling being reviewed has been recalled or has any safety concerns. The manufacturer should give you adequate safety and wearing information. When you're reading a review, note if any users have felt nervous or unsure of how to use the sling.

Tips & Warnings

• When you're using the sling, the CPSC says that the baby should be chin up, with his face visible and his nose and mouth free.

References

• CPSC: Infant Deaths Prompt Warning About Sling Carriers for Babies