Different types of slings

There are many different types of slings available to buy in the UK. They fall within 6 different categories.

Wraps (which come in stretchy and woven varieties) are long pieces of cloth that are tied around the baby and parent.

Mei tais are asian style carriers which consist of a rectangle of fabric with 4 straps. One set of straps tie around the wearer' waist and the other around the wearer' shoulders, the rectangle forming a pocket for the baby.

Ring slings are pieces of cloth with 2 rings sewn at one end. The free end is looped through the rings, forming a pouch for the baby, with the tail of the fabric hanging down. They are worn over one shoulder.

Pouches are also worn over one shoulder. They are made of one folded up length of material which forms a pocket for the baby

Soft structured carriers are a hybrid between a Mei Tai and a ruckscack: the body is similar to a Mei Tai but this carrier has a thick padded waist and padded shoulder straps which both fasten with buckles.

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