Ring Slings - 7 Things You Need to Know
Thinking about using a ring sling with your baby or toddler? That's great! Ring slings are an incredible and versatile baby carrier option and have been around for generations! While they may seem intimidating (like maybe too good to be true?), once you learn how to use them they are the fastest and easiest way to carry your kiddo. So, let’s jump into the seven things you need to know about ring slings, including how they work and when you can start using them.
Table of Contents
1. What is a ring sling?
Let's start with the basics! A ring sling is a long piece of woven fabric that has two rings sewn in at one end. The material is then threaded through the rings to create a hammock/pouch for your baby to sit in (don't you wish you could hang out in a hammock all day?). The fabric sits on one shoulder and the weight of the child is then distributed across your back.
The concept of ring slings is NOT new! The concept of ring slings was derived from the ancient cultural practice of tying cloths around the body with a knot at one shoulder.
Our ring slings are different because they're made of natural, organize fibers and come in three inclusive sizes. Whether you choose our hemp/cotton or linen/cotton blend, you're getting a comfortable, breathable, and supportive ring sling that will last from infancy through toddlerhood for multiple children. We also think it's so important that babywearing truly is for everyBODY. We offer three ring sling lengths so everyone can get a good fit.
2. When can I start using my ring sling? How long can I use it?
Most people can start using their ring sling from day 1 and keep using it for years to come! One thing we really love about ring slings is how they can be used with newborns and toddlers. Our ring slings have a weight range of 7 to 35 pounds, so they really grow with you and your family.
You can also ask your pediatrician for approval to use your ring sling before your babe is 7 pounds. Read more about how ring slings can really take you from newborn through toddlerhood, how to use a ring sling with a newborn, and best ways to :babywear" your toddler in our other articles.
3. What are the different ring sling carry positions?
We love this question because we really get to highlight just how versatile ring slings are! We recommend front carries for newborns and young infants and hip carries once baby has gained some head, neck, and trunk control.
In a front carry, your newborn can be legs in or out. We recommend trying legs out first. This is a safe and comfortable position for most babies right from birth. If your baby is super curled up and you can't get their legs out or they fuss enough that you think they're uncomfortable in this position, then try legs in. Just make sure baby's bottom is the lowest point in the sling. Move to legs out when baby starts pushing to stand.
For babies with more head, neck, and trunk control, we love a hip carry. This is more of an off-center carry. Baby should be high enough to look over your shoulder, but low enough to still tuck in and snuggle. Plus, if they're ready for this position, they're also ready to have their arms out. This will give them even more freedom to look around and explore their world!
These different positions allow you to change how you use your ring sling as your baby grows in a way that is most comfortable for you during certain stages of your child’s development! This versatility is not common in other style baby carriers and makes ring slings truly something you can use for years with your child(ren).
4. Do you have to practice with a ring sling?
Remember when you were learning how to tie your shoe or ride a bike? While it can take some time to get used to using a ring sling, don't be discouraged if it feels awkward at first! Practice and patience will help you get comfortable and confident using your ring sling.
Plus, if you purchase or receive a hope&plum, you’ll get a free, one-on-one consultation that will leave you feeling like a pro at the end! (For sure something to take advantage of!)
Our top ring sling tips are to:
- Start with a pocket that's smaller than you think you need.
- Push up on baby's bottom whenever you're tightening or loosening the sling
- Tighten in thirds -- top, middle, and bottom -- and always pull the fabric in the direction it's coming through the rings
5. Can you adjust a ring sling?
Absolutely! The mechanics of a ring sling allow you to easily and quickly adjust the tightness of the fabric, as well as the size of the pocket, making it easy to get a secure and comfortable fit for you and your baby.
Not only can you get a great fit, but given the ease of adjusting, you can have other caregivers use the same ring sling without a lot of fuss! Not only that, but the convenience of ring slings is unmatched. They are easy to pack and take with you when you are on the go. They're also easy to keep on your body after your pop your child out. This means you can get them back into the sling quickly when it's time. These two features make ring slings a great option for parents who want to keep their baby close while not having to lug around a bulky style carrier!
Are you convinced yet that ring slings are one of the best baby carriers? Because we still aren’t done with all the benefits!
6. Can you nurse or bottle feed your baby in a ring sling?
Whenever someone asks us which baby carrier is the best for feeding your babe on the go, our answer is always ring slings, hands down. As we have already mentioned, the quick adjustability of ring slings is one of its greatest benefits. As part of that, you’re able to easily adjust them when you want to feed your babe. When you’re done, you can quickly adjust them back into a more comfortable position. This is a huge benefit when your baby is in a stage of life where they mostly eat, sleep, and poop (also this is why we suggest a second ring sling on hand for all those inevitable blow outs).
While we're on the subject, the most important step in feeding your baby in any carrier is to tighten them back up when they're done. Keep in mind that when baby is in a lowered position for feeding, they may not longer be close enough to kiss or snug enough to be supported handsfree. So always bring them back up to that snug, visible, and kissable position when they're done.
7. Are ring slings comfortable to use?
We can’t really speak for other brands, but! Our ring slings are all made from woven, natural fibers that come soft right out of the box and only get softer with use!
Combine that softness with strength and support, and you’ve got a baby carrier that both your baby’s skin and your back will be thankful for.
Speaking of your back, remember those book bags in elementary school with the two narrow shoulder straps that pulled you down under the weight? Yea, we do too. But with ring slings, you are distributing that weight across a greater surface area on your back, so you’re not reliving your school book bag days. Yay for physics!
If your ring sling doesn't feel comfy, there are likely some small adjustments that can make a big difference. That's why we offer free fit checks for everyone with a hope&plum carrier. We can help you fine tune your carriers so they're comfortable, safe, and supportive.
Now know why ring slings are a popular and versatile baby carrier option. They offer such an incredible range of benefits for both you and your baby. So, with some practice and patience, you can enjoy the convenience, comfort, and bonding experience that a ring sling can provide. Check out the best ring slings out there right here at hope&plum!
Meet the Author
Skye Amundsen
Skye Amundsen is the co-founder of hope&plum and a mom of four. She's been obsessed with babywearing since her first baby and built this brand to make it easier, more inclusive, and a lot more fun for everyone who comes after her.
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