Best Baby Ring Sling

What Is A Ring Sling?

A ring sling is a long strip of fabric cut to a specific length (depending on size) and secured at the shoulder with two rings. The fabric is threaded through the rings to create a secure pouch or “sling” to carry a baby. The ring sling is worn across the torso and supported by one shoulder.

Ring slings come in a wide array of fabrics like cotton, linen, wool, bamboo, silk and blends, and in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Most slings need to be hand washed and air dried to prevent shrinking.

Ring slings provide the closeness of a baby wrap without having to do any wrapping and are much easier to put on and take off.

Ring Sling Sizing

Ring slings typically come in two sizes: S/M (Small/Medium) or L/XL (Large/Extra Large). Ring sling brands will differ slightly in size length. The size that will work for most is roughly based on t-shirt sizing; however, not every parent or caregiver has the same t-shirt size, nor will the sling size be the same. Both sizes will fit most users, but the L/XL will leave a longer tail (the excess fabric that hangs down from the sling). If the length of the tail is too long, the excess fabric can be used as a makeshift nursing cover or as an additional layer for the sling, and there are ways to wrap the fabric around the rings to use up some of the excess length.

Ring Sling Safety Considerations

A ring sling can be a safe way to carry a baby but it’s essential to follow safety guidelines. Baby sling carriers have proven to be potentially dangerous if not used correctly. Babies have a greater risk of suffocation if placed incorrectly in a sling. Babies who are under four months old, premature, low birth weight or have breathing difficulties appear to be at greatest risk.

In 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) adopted a new federal safety standard for infant sling carriers. Under the new standard, all baby slings must now bear a permanently attached warning label and clear instructions for use. The mandatory standard also contains requirements for sling manufacturers and recommendations for sling wearers. The CPSC New Federal Safety Standard for Infant Sling Carriers press release has more information about the standard.

Choosing a Ring Sling

Ring slings are relatively similar in design and use. Picking one has more to do with the fabric, color and pattern. This is why we only have one recommendation – the popular Hip Baby Wrap. These ring slings are made of quality materials and come in a wide range of colors and unique prints.

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