Organic Baby Home • Natural Parenting • Choosing the Right Organic Baby Sling

Five Steps to Finding Your
Organic Baby Sling

Are you wanting an organic baby sling but not sure how to choose the right one for you and your baby? Here are some tips to help you get started.

Decide which type of sling you want.

Adjustable slings allow for easy repositioning and can be used from the time your baby is born through the toddler years as a baby hip sling. Zolowear is an example of an adjustable sling.

You can get these with or without padding. The sling accommodates for changes in weight (yours and the baby's) and allows for sharing between parents and caretakers.

You can also get a sling pouch. Pouch slings are not adjustable, but offer a more streamlined look (no excess fabric). You do need to try it on and have the fit just right, so read the sizing charts. The Market Sling and Karma Baby Sling are examples of pouch slings.

Another type of sling is the wrap (fabric that you tie on). The Moby Wrap is an example of a wrap sling without a ring, as is the Didymos sling.

Asian or mei tai style carriers are adjustable and have straps that tie around the parent's body. Ellaroo makes an organic mei tai sling.

One other option is a baby carrier. Carriers have more structure and don't require knowledge of the art of tying. Many of our readers have raved about their satisfaction with the organic Ergo Baby Carriers on the site. This is also my personal favorite.
Choose your favorite organic baby sling fabric.

Some companies carry 100 percent organic cotton slings.While others carry untreated hemp, linen, or mixed blends of natural fibers.

Avoid slings made of synthetic fabrics such as polyester and fleece because they off-gas toxic chemicals. All of the slings profiled on this site are made of organic cotton or natural untreated fibers.

An organic baby sling is the best choice.

Do a little research.

Before buying you may want to read baby carrier reviews online. To narrow down choices, you might also read the sling instructions.

Many slings come with photos or videos to illustrate the functionality. If the process looks simple to you, then you are more likely to use it on a regular basis.
Get the right size.

Pay attention to the size chart when you order. While the medium size works for most people, you may want to ask a friend to try one on. Just in case, when shopping online buy from a company that would allow you to return it if the size doesn't work out.
Show off your style.

If you aren't sharing your sling, go ahead and pick the fun pattern. I went with basic black thinking, my husband would wear a neutral color. He didn't. Nor did it matter so much to me whether it matched my outfits.

There are so many beautiful colors and patterns to pick from, so choose something that reflects your personality and have fun with babywearing!