More about wraps
Wraparound carriers (wraps) are made from one very long piece of fabric (typically 4-6 yards) that is wrapped and tied around your body in a manner that will securely and comfortably hold your baby.
Wraparound carriers are the most comfortable carriers you can buy. Many of our customers with back or neck trouble report that they are able to comfortably use wraps.
Wraps are our favorite carrier for comfort and versatility. There are over 20 different ways that you can tie your wrap (fewer for stretchy wraps). You can spread the baby's weight evenly over your entire upper body and carry them very close to your center of gravity, making it feel like you are carrying much less weight.
However, out of all of our soft carriers, the wraps carry the steepest learning curve. If you're not willing to spend 10 minutes reading through the instructions and 20 minutes or so practicing, the wrapping might not be for you. If that is the case, we recommend ring slings for newborns, pouch slings for ultimate simplicity, or Mei Tais for babies over 4 months old and easy back carrying.
Wraps come in 3 varieties: stretchy (Moby, Gypsy Mama) & woven (Didymos, Storchenwiege)and Gauze (Gypsy Mama). Stretchy wraps are typically tied on first then the baby is "popped" in. With woven wraps, they can be partially wrapped, then baby is put in and the wrap is tightened and tied. Of course, you can “tie on first” with a woven or vice-versa.
Stretchy wraps are more "forgiving" to new users than the woven wraps. Woven wraps may create pressure points if they are not spread evenly (the thinner the wrap, the more potential pressure points), stretchy wraps do not have this problem. As you get more experience with wrapping you may prefer the versatility or the additional support offered by a woven wrap.
The easiest way to learn to use a wrap is person-to-person, but we realize that it is not always possible to meet other babywearers in person to learn those valuable tips and tricks. All of our carriers come with illustrated instructions, and we can direct you to some amazing resources on the internet. Our favorite are video instructions at www.WearYourBaby.com . In addition, we will provide email and phone support anytime you need our help.
More about woven wraps