sling tips + huge thanks

I wanted to share these two great diagrams that show some helpful tips for wearing your baby in a ring sling. By following these simple pointers, you will maximize the ease and comfort of wearing your kiddo in this style of carrier.

I also wanted to say a huge "thank you" to an amazing group of women who helped to make the Sakura Bloom Styleathon possible. These babywearing experts met with each of the contestants to give them a private, one-on-one introduction to using their new slings. Their help was invaluable, and it is my pleasure to introduce them to you:

Bianca and Joanna -- Metro Minis
Caprice --- The Art of Babywearing
Giselle --- Granola Babies

Kelsey --- A Woman's Work
Morgan/Heather --- Green Bambino
Susan --- Babywearers of Pheonix

Since these women have such a wealth of knowledge, we asked them to each share their favorite sling-wearing insight. Here's what they said (I love their thoughts and advice -- even after wearing my kids in ring slings for years I found this information to be so helpful!)

A ring sling is so much more than just a baby carrier--it is a nursing cover, sun shade, burp cloth, changing pad, blanket, and fashion statement! -- Kelsey

Before putting baby in the ring sling, make the pocket so you have just enough room to put in baby. This way once baby is in the ring sling you have little tightening to make. -- Giselle

When tightening your sling, grab the tail about 1.5-2" from the rings and pull the material *up* first, then diagonally away from your body, following the diagonal seam of the tail. (Pulling down on the tail to tighten leads to dreaded ring slippage!) -- Caprice

I love the ring part of the sling for hanging a toy/teether/pacifier from. It's fun to watch active babies reach for and play with whatever you have hung there, and it's a great distraction for cranky babies! --Heather

Choose a sling that is reflective of your personal style. It is your accessory, so pick a color and material that matches items you wear, regardless of your baby's sex.-- Susan

Put the baby on your body where you want them to end up, practice, practice, practice, and take a breath when you are done and relax your shoulders. -- Joanna

Are you an experienced ring-sling-wearer? What is your favorite trick, tip, or advice? Leave a comment letting me know!