What are the advantages and disadvantages of a fitted pouch?
A fitted pouch sling is probably the easiest sling around. You basically just put it on, pop `em in and go! There`s no slippage or rings or buckles of any kind in a fitted sling. Hotslings pouches are also extremely compact (even with the tiny amount of padding!) with no long tail. They just pop right in your diaper bag. I also like the ability to swing the baby around on your body quickly and easily from front to hip to back with no adjusting.
How stretchy are your stretch pouches?
Hotslings stretch pouches have just a bit of 'give'. They are like stretch jeans or stretch khakis. They are made of woven material with a touch of spandex (Lycra is the brand name of spandex) to help the sling conform a bit to the baby and your shoulder. We use stretch wovens because they are structured, safe and supportive (and you can get lots of cool prints!). Generally with cotton, the more stretch, the more the fabric tends to stretch out over time. So if you were to put a heavy baby in something unsupportive and too stretchy, the baby would hang down too low and it would be uncomfortable and not secure.
So why would I want a non-stretch reversible?
There are lots of beautiful choices in reversible. The material is easy to source and readily available. Secondly, two layers of fabric feels very supportive and is very comfortable. Some people even prefer the non-stretch reversibles over stretch! Non-stretch reversibles tend to be a bit more snug than stretch cotton pouches. If your stretch cotton pouch is a bit snug, size up on the reversible.
What's the weight/age limit?
Most babies/toddlers will outgrow the desire to be slung before they outgrow the ability for the sling to handle their weight. Also, once a baby hits 30 lbs, it gets difficult for mamas to handle all the extra weight.
What does 'padded' mean? I don't want a bulky carrier.
All slings come with leg padding. Leg padding is minimal and discreet and just makes a basic pouch style sling slightly bulkier than a non-padded pouch, but still nothing like a heavily padded ring sling. Leg padding was designed for babies in the hip carry - toddlers and little babies alike.
Can my baby fall out?
If your baby is properly positioned, your sling will keep her secure. Make sure she is deep in the pouch. Also, some people feel more comfortable when learning to sling keeping one hand on the baby. Again, common sense is important! Put a hand on your baby when you bend down to pick up a toy your 3 year old left out for you to trip over. Hotslings is not responsible for accidents due to improper use.
Is fleece hot?
Yes! I think fleece is like wearing a blanket. It's fantastically comfy, but terrible for hot climates or summer. I think fleece is great in cold weather though - very snuggly.
I just got my sling and I am not sure it fits! Help!
First, if you are still pregnant, there should be some room in the pouch between your belly and the outer rail. You should be able to open it a few inches. Keep in mind, your belly will be on the way down when the baby's born. Second, if you get your baby in and it's pulling tight and feels uncomfortable, you need a size up. If you can't get your baby in at all, you probably need 2 sizes up. The bottom of the pouch should be somewhere around your belly button. If it's much lower than this, your pouch is too big and you will need a size down. Generally, if it feels wrong, it is wrong. The fit around the baby should be snug and create a womb-like swaddled feeling. We will glady accept any exchanges.
How do I care for my Hotsling?
Machine wash cold, hang dry. Some pouches are pre-washed and some aren't. It depends on the fabric. Hang drying extends the life of the sling and ensures that your pouch won't shrink. Fleece pouches can be machine dried.
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Blue Paisley Cotton |
Slate Blue Cotton |
Cappucino Fleece |
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Sage |
Ana |
Pink Shimmer |
