The Best Baby Slings For Hands-Free Parenting
Comfortable and practical, baby slings are a must-have for parents on the go.
Baby K'tan Original Baby Carrier
Baby K'tan Original Baby Carrier
Live through early parenting hands-free with the addition of a baby carrier or baby sling. The amazing parenting accessory is a safe and practical way of carrying your baby while maximising mobility, so you can bond while getting your to-do list ticked off - a godsend in those early days.
Best baby sling overall: Freerider Co. Sling, £68 on Amazon
Editor's pick: MOBY Leopard Classic Baby Wrap Carrier, £54.95 on Amazon
Best baby sling for ease of use: Ergobaby Lightweight Aura Wrap, £49.90 on Amazon
To offer a helping hand and get you started on your baby-wearing journey, we've covered everything you need to know about using a baby sling or wrap - from how to use your baby sling safely, to our top picks of the best baby slings. Searching for something a little different? We've also rounded up the best baby-wearing coats.
Best baby sling overall
| Suitable from: | 8 - 30lbs (approx. 3 - 13kg) |
| Maximum user weight: | 30lbs (approx. 13kg) |
| Washing instructions: | Machine washable |
| Suitable from: | Birth |
| Maximum user weight: | 9kg |
| Washing instructions: | Machine washable |
www.babyktan.co.uk
This sling is different from the other ones in this list, as it is sized (rather than a one-size-fits-all design like many others). It's easy to use in different positions and for different ages. The only drawback is that you can't share it with your partner if you're different sizes. The Baby K'tan baby carrier is quick and easy to wear - no rings, belts, buckles or excess fabric. Just slip the baby sling over your head like a t-shirt.
| Suitable from: | 3.6kg |
| Maximum user weight: | 15.8kg |
| Washing instructions: | Machine washable |
Baby wraps and slings are typically one long piece of fabric with special features that can be wrapped around you and your baby, tying you both together. In general, a baby sling doesn't have clips, buckles or buttons like other baby carriers, but if tied correctly, it is super secure, and your baby will love being in it (and it'll leave your hands free!). They're also a good option for a newborn baby or premature baby as they allow for a snug fit compared to structured carriers. Babywearing is likely something parents have been doing since the dawn of time, despite the controversy Meghan Markle faced for wearing Archie in a sling, back in 2020.
Baby slings by no means have to be a plain and simple piece of fabric, multiple brands are making the baby sling a must-have fashion accessory for all parents. Decked out in irresistible prints from leopard to stripe, baby slings can match your outfits and keep both you and your little one comfortable and cool.
The baby sling or wrap needs to be tight and secure, keeping you and your baby closely attached. You will need to be able to check on your baby regularly to ensure they are comfortable and safe. Try 'the kiss test' - if you can kiss your baby's head, you are in the right position. The best position for your baby is on your chest, and with good support for their back, neck and hips.
Dr Rosie Knowles is a GP, carrying consultant, author of Why Babywearing Matters, and a mum of two; carryingmatters.co.uk recommends following the TICKS safety rule:
• T is for Tight. Your carrier should be close fitting to make sure it holds your baby in a safe position.
• I is for In view at all times. Make sure you can clearly see your baby's face so you can check on them easily.
• C is for Close enough to kiss. You should be able to kiss the top of your baby's head easily while they are in the carrier, but make sure they can still move their head freely.
• K is for Keep chin off chest. "Their chin should be off their chest and baby's airway open and unobstructed, and remain so if baby falls asleep," says Rosie.
• S is for Supported back. "The sling should be snug, so baby's chest and back are well supported, with no slumping or sliding downwards," says Rosie.
Yes, you can use a sling wrap while breastfeeding, it will just take some practice and getting used to. You can breastfeed in a sling wrap vertically or in a more reclined position. Ensure your baby can breathe easily, and keep an eye out for any trip hazards that may obstruct your path. You need to support your baby at all times while feeding, but using a wrap gives you more freedom generally.
Some manufacturers may suggest you don't feed while using their slings, so be sure to check this first.
You can use your baby sling as much as you want, however, we would advise you to consider the two-hour baby rule, where you avoid keeping your baby in the same position for over two hours, as their spine is still in development and it's important to keep changing their position. As opposed to a more structured baby carrier, with a baby sling or wrap, you have to be a little bit more aware of your baby's positioning.
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Jade Moscrop is the Commercial Content Editor for Grazia, specialising in lifestyle topics. When she’s not writing about beauty products, gym leggings and chic homeware items, she can usually be found on a hot girl walk, buying houseplants or listening to female-fronted rock bands.