A Simple Guide to Slings & Carriers: Babywearing Made Easy

Welcome to the wonderful world of babywearing!

If you’re expecting or just had a baby, you might be wondering where to start when it comes to slings and carriers. With so many options out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming—but don’t worry,

We’re here to make it all feel easy, clear, and completely doable—even if you’ve never worn a sling or carrier before.

Safety Always Comes First

Babywearing is safe and beautiful when done correctly. Here’s how to keep your little one snug, secure, and safe:

Follow the T.I.C.K.S. Guidelines

• Tight – The sling or carrier should hug baby close to you so they’re supported.

• In view at all times – You should always be able to see baby’s face without moving fabric.

• Close enough to kiss – Baby’s head should be as close to your chin as a kiss away.

• Keep chin off the chest – Their head should not slump forward; airways must stay open.

• Supported back – Baby’s back should be gently curved and supported in a natural position.

If it doesn’t feel right, don’t worry—that’s what sling libraries are for. Our Little Snug Clubs offer free quick fit checks and one to one Fit Check sessions to help you ensure your sling or carrier is safe and comfortable

Let’s explore the main types of slings and carriers,

What they’re great for, how you can use them, and some popular brands to look out for.

Stretchy Wraps

Perfect for: Newborns and the fourth trimester

Feels like: A soft, snuggly hug

Carries: Front carry (upright), sometimes hip carry (with certain brands)

A stretchy wrap is a long piece of soft, stretchy fabric you tie around yourself to carry your baby.

It’s super cosy for newborns and helps build confidence with babywearing in those early weeks.

Once you get the hang of the tying (which we can show you!), it becomes second nature.

Popular brands: ✨Close Caboo 

✨Hana ✨Izmi ✨Moby Wrap ✨Lifft ✨ Joy and Joe ✨Coracor

Buckle Carriers

(Soft Structured Carriers)

Perfect for: Parents who want a quick, easy option and the most popular type

Feels like: A rucksack for your baby

Carries: Front (facing in), back, hip; some allow facing out

These are structured carriers with padded shoulder straps and buckles. They’re adjustable, comfy, and easy to pop on and off—perfect for busy days out. Very varied between brands in fit and how to adjust Many are newborn-friendly with inserts or adjustable panels.

Popular brands: ✨Artipoppe. ✨Ergobaby ✨Tula ✨Mamaruga ✨Izmi ✨Carifit ✨Integra ✨Manduca. ✨Baby Bjorn

Half Buckles & Meh Dai's

Perfect for: A blend of wrap and buckle carrier

Feels like: Wrap feel with buckle ease

Carries: Front and back carry

A Meh Dai is an asian style carrier. It has a panel with straps that tie around you.

Half buckles have a buckle waist and tie-on shoulder straps.

They give you a lovely snug fit and can be used from newborn onwards.

Popular brands:

✨Didymos DidyTai.

✨Lenny Lamb Hybrid

✨GirasolMysoul  

✨Stokke

Ring Slings

Perfect for: Wriggly toddlers who want “up, down, up again!”

Feels like: Stylish and simple, one-shouldered carry

Carries: Front carry, hip carry, sometimes back carry (for experienced wearers)

Ring slings are woven fabric slings with two rings sewn at one end. You thread the fabric through the rings like a seatbelt. They're great for newborns right up to toddlers and pack up small in your bag. They’re also brilliant for breastfeeding on the go!

Popular brands. : ✨Artipoppe. ✨Oscha. ✨Didymos ✨Lenny Lamb. ✨Little Frog.

Woven Wraps

Perfect for: All ages—from newborn to preschool

Feels like: Versatile and supportive, once you know how

Carries: Front, hip, back carries — infinite possibilities!

Woven wraps don’t stretch like stretchy wraps do, which means they’re super supportive and grow with your child. There’s a bit of a learning curve, but they offer lots of flexibility. You can do simple front carries or move on to back carries as baby gets older.

Popular brands: ✨Oscha ✨Didymos ✨Girasol ✨Yaro Slings ✨Lenny Lamb. ✨Little Frog.

So, Which One’s Right for You?

There’s no "one size fits all" when it comes to slings and carriers—and that's exactly why the Cheshire Sling Library's Little Snug Club exists!

At the Little Snug Club, we offer drop-in sling clinics and personalised one-to-one sessions, where you can explore and try out various slings and carriers. You'll receive expert guidance and the chance to hire up to two carriers at a time, giving you the freedom to discover what feels most comfortable and natural for you and your baby.

You don't have to navigate this journey alone. We're here for every step—the uncertainties, the questions, those "is this right?" moments, and especially the joyful discoveries when something just clicks.

Your baby's sling and carrier "wardrobe" evolves with their needs.

While you might start with a stretchy or woven wrap for your newborn, around 3-5 months you might transition to a buckle type carriers or a ring sling. Different slings suit different situations, activities, and seasons, and you may find your partner prefers a different style or fit than you do.

Consider having a practical, everyday carrier perfect for school runs or errands, alongside slings and carriers to suit your outfit or occasion.. Different carriers offer unique positions and benefits—perhaps a front-facing option ideal for naps or a ring sling that’s quick and convenient for active toddlers who frequently want to get up and down.

At the Cheshire Sling Library’s Little Snug Club, we're committed to helping you find the ideal sling or carrier to suit every stage, style, and scenario.

We look forward to welcoming you and your little one to the Little Snug Club soon!

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