I am looking around online at slings and am feeling overwhelmed. I never used one with Kylie but often wished I had one. This time I am determined to get one. I also plan to breastfeed this time and think that would be convenient when BFing on the go. Just pop them in the sling and it is discreet...that type of thing.

I know a lot of you had slings with previous children. Can you tell me any that you really loved and some that you would stay away from? I want something that is comfortable, not extremely expensive (of course if it is the best then I will be open to it though), and not too difficult. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Also, what are the pros and cons? I want the good, the bad, and the ugly!

There are just so many things I know now that I didn't know with baby #1 that I plan to do differently so it's a bit overwhelming in some ways. Thanks, ladies!

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I bought one from a friend (used) she made it using these directions:
Make a Carrier

There is a place on there that shows you how to wear your baby in many different positions. I'm practicing with a teddy bear now to learn how to use it. The fabric is 16ft long and about 2 ft wide.

I'm so looking forward to wearing my baby. the fabric is beautiful and it cost me about $30.

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I just used a pouch that I made (found instructions online) that is similar to a Hotsling or Peanut Shell. I didn't want to dish out a bunch of money if I wasn't going to like it. I really liked it but since I was new to it I had a little trouble with a newborn. I think I would do better this time. I also had a hard time nursing in it, but have heard of lots of people who were successful at it. This time around I'd like to try a wrap (also going to make my own) to have in addition to my pouch. I "think" it might be easier to nurse in a wrap but I really won't know that until baby gets here and we try it out. Either way I know I'm going to need something since we can be pretty active in the summer and I'll have a 5 year old and a 2 year old to chase after. Not sure if I was any help or not. I know it can be overwhelming. Have you checked out TheBabyWearer.com ? They have tons of info and I think somewhere on there they have a spot that kind of goes over what would be the best carrier for you, like what you will be using it for and what not. good luck.

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Nikki ('78)
DH Chris ('73)
DD Madison 7/11/03
DS Colton 7/18/06
DS Fisher 5/31/08

That would work if I could find someone to make one for me but as of right now I don't know anyone that could or would. And I sure am challenged when it comes to anything sewing related, lol! I will keep it in mind just in case though. And I will definitely keep the different wearing positions in mind too.

Any other suggestions?

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Thanks to you too, Nikki! I will check out that site as well. I may be interested in a wrap too. I told you it is all so overwhelming to think about.

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There is a post on a page or two back. There was some info on slings in that thread I am planning on this time getting one too

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I ordered a Hotsling last week and expect it any day now.
I had a Kangaroo Korner sling with DD but it's fleece (she was born in January) and I had a terrible breast infection so didn't get to use it much.
This time I really want to wear the baby though~especially with a toddler to chase after!
When the Hotsling comes I plan on trying it out with one of DD's baby dolls.

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Personally, I really don't like padded slings -- too bulky. I'm not big on ring slings either, but have only tried one (and it was padded, too) and the rings never held the fabric in place. I also don't care for having a lot of extra fabric - I prefer pouches regarding slings. I used a fleece Peanut Shell with Ellie. I'm planning to get a Solarveil sling this time around. It protects the baby from harmful UV rays, is lightweight but sturdy, and quick-drying -- all great features to me!
Here are some:
Khaki SolarVeil® Baby Sling :: Baby Carriers - Baby Slings :: Mamma's Milk
Kangaroo Korner - Adjustable Solarveil® Pouch
Wallababy :: Reversible Baby Slings NEW! Solarveil Reversible Pouch

Of course, everyone is different. My very favorite way to wear my baby(ies) is with a mei tai. I got a Babyhawk with Elle and have played around with the thought of maybe getting a Kozy as well (the Kozy has the option of a higher back and offers more support for a newborn without using extra blankets or "stuffins" of any kind).

P.S. - I did try one wrap with Ellie and didn't care for it much. Even when I figured it out and wrapped her snugly, the fabric was too stretchy and I felt like I needed to help hold her in with my hands. Again, I'm also not big on lots of fabric, especially in the hot summer.

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