I remember my first attempt with a ring sling vividly. It felt like a disaster. I couldn’t get the positioning right, and I was terrified I’d hurt my newborn. Thankfully, a friend stepped in to show me the ropes (or the fabric, in this case).
Now, it is my turn to help you. We will break down everything you need to know about ring slings, from safety standards and sizing to step-by-step instructions for the most popular carries. Let’s get you wearing your baby with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- What it is: A ring sling is a long piece of fabric secured at the shoulder with two rings to create a pouch for your baby.
- Safety first: Always ensure your baby’s airway is open, their chin is off their chest, and they are close enough to kiss.
- Versatility: You can use various positions like the snuggle hold (tummy-to-tummy) or hip carry depending on your baby’s age and head control.
- Patience pays off: There is a learning curve. Practice with a doll or teddy bear first to master threading and tightening.
What Exactly Is a Ring Sling?
Before we start wrapping, let’s define the gear. A ring sling is a long strip of woven fabric, similar to a baby wrap, but with a key difference. It features two strong rings sewn into one end.
You thread the fabric tail through these rings to create a loop. This adjustable pouch sits across your body, allowing you to carry your baby on your front or hip. It distributes the weight across your back and one shoulder (1).
Ring slings offer fantastic benefits:
- Connection: They promote skin-to-skin contact and bonding.
- Convenience: It is a hands-free option, making it easier to navigate stairs or crowded shops where strollers struggle.
- Adjustability: One sling often fits multiple caregivers and grows with your baby.
However, they aren’t perfect. Since the weight rests on one shoulder, it can strain your back during long periods of wear or with heavier toddlers. They can also get warm in the summer depending on the fabric blend you choose.
Weigh Your Options
Safety Rules You Must Follow
Safety is non-negotiable. Because ring slings are less structured than buckle carriers, you must be vigilant about positioning to keep your baby safe.
Always inspect your sling before use. Look for torn fabric, loose stitching near the rings, or cracks in the rings themselves. If it looks damaged, do not use it.
The T.I.C.K.S. Rule
- Tight: The sling should be tight enough to hug your baby close.
- In view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face.
- Close enough to kiss: You should be able to kiss your baby’s head by tipping your chin forward.
- Keep chin off the chest: Ensure your baby’s chin doesn’t curl onto their chest, which restricts breathing.
- Supported back: The tummy-to-tummy position should support the natural curve of their back.
Be mindful of your activity while wearing your baby. Avoid handling hot liquids, cooking at a stove, or bending over at the waist. If you need to pick something up, squat down at the knees to keep your baby upright.
Preparing Your Sling
You wouldn’t bake a cake without preheating the oven. The same logic applies here. A little prep work makes the actual carrying process much smoother.
Choosing the Right Size
Most ring slings are “one size fits most,” typically around 70 to 80 inches long. However, lengths vary by brand.
- Standard/Medium (approx. 72-75 inches): Fits most caregivers comfortably.
- Long/Large (approx. 77-85 inches): Best for plus-sized parents, tall parents, or those who prefer a longer tail for coverage.
Sizing Tip
How to Thread a Ring Sling
Threading prepares the carrier for use. Once threaded, you can often leave it that way and just loosen it to take it off.
Here is how to get it ready:
- Drape it: Hold the rings in one hand and drape the fabric tail over the shoulder you want the rings to sit on. The tail should hang down your back.
- Gather: Grab the tail from behind your back and bring it under your opposite arm. Gather the fabric in your hands so it isn’t twisted.
- Loop through both: Feed the end of the tail up through both rings.
- Separate rings: Pull the fabric through, then separate the two rings.
- Loop over and under: Take the tail end, pass it over the top ring and tuck it under the bottom ring (like a belt buckle). pull it through.
- Straighten: This is the most important step. Ensure the fabric spread across the rings is not twisted. The top rail (hem) should correspond to the top side of the tail, and the bottom rail to the bottom side.
Basic Techniques for a Good Fit
Before we get into specific carries, let’s master the basics of adjustment. These tips apply to almost every hold.
Where Should the Rings Sit?
The rings should sit just below your shoulder, in the “corsage position.” If they are too low, they might dig into your breast tissue. If they are too high, they will sit on top of your shoulder bone, which gets painful quickly.
Pro Tip: Start with the rings slightly higher on your shoulder than you want them. As you tighten the sling and settle the baby, the rings naturally move down a few inches.
How to Tighten Correctly
New users often just yank on the tail, which only tightens one edge of the fabric. To get a secure seat:
- Support the weight: Always support your baby’s weight with one hand while adjusting with the other.
- Strand by strand: Tighten the fabric in sections. Pull the top edge to tighten the neck area, the middle for the back, and the bottom edge for the seat.
- Direction matters: Pull the tail fabric in the direction it comes out of the rings (usually down and across), not straight out or up.
The Ideal Seat (The “M” Position)
You want your baby to sit in a deep squat. Their bottom should be lower than their knees, creating an “M” shape with their legs. This is crucial for healthy hip development. Ensure the fabric extends from the back of one knee, across their bottom, to the back of the other knee.
Step-by-Step Carry Instructions
Ring slings are versatile. Here are the most common positions, ranging from newborn-friendly to toddler-approved.
Breastfeeding in a Ring Sling
Yes, you can nurse in a sling. It takes practice, but it is a game-changer for errands.
The basic method:
- Loosen: Lift the top ring slightly to loosen the sling.
- Lower: Gently lower your baby until their mouth lines up with your breast.
- Latch: Help them latch. Support their head with your hand or the top rail (never cover their face completely).
- Reset: Once they are done, always tighten the sling and return them to the correct, high “close enough to kiss” position. Never let them sleep at breast height.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Struggling? Don’t worry. Here are quick fixes for the most common ring sling headaches.
How do I fix a carry that feels too loose or too low?
If the baby feels unsafe or too low, your pouch was likely too big to start with. Support your baby’s weight with one hand (lifting them up) and pull the tail through the rings to tighten the slack. If that doesn’t work, take the baby out, tighten the empty pouch slightly, and try again.
Why can’t I get my sling tight enough?
This usually happens if the fabric is twisted inside the rings. Spread the fabric across the rings so it lies flat. Also, lift your baby’s bottom while tightening; this removes their weight from the fabric, making it much easier to pull the tail through.
Why does my baby slump to one side?
Slumping usually means the middle section of the fabric is too loose. Ensure you are tightening “strand by strand.” Find the specific loose area on the tail that corresponds to the loose part on the baby’s back and pull just that section.
What if my baby’s head is leaning back?
The top rail (the edge near your neck) is too loose. Pull the top edge of the tail to tighten the fabric behind the baby’s neck. If you have excess fabric, you can roll the tail into a small cushion and tuck it behind the top rail for extra neck support.
Why are there red marks on my baby’s neck?
You might be overtightening the top rail. The fabric should be snug, not cutting into the skin. Ensure you have pulled the fabric up the baby’s back smoothly before tightening so the tension is distributed evenly, rather than just pulling the edge like a drawstring.
My baby’s legs keep straightening. What can I do?
Straight legs can push the baby out of the seat and aren’t great for hips. This happens when the seat isn’t deep enough. You must tuck a good amount of fabric (about a third of the width) under their bottom and up between their legs and your belly. This locks them into that “M” position.
Ring Sling FAQs
Still have questions? Here are the answers to the most frequent concerns parents have.
Can I use a ring sling on an airplane?
Yes, they are excellent for travel. Wearing your baby keeps them calm and keeps your hands free for luggage. However, for safety reasons during takeoff and landing, flight attendants will usually require you to take the baby out of the sling and hold them in your lap.
I’m a plus-sized mama. Can I use a ring sling?
Absolutely. Ring slings are wonderfully inclusive because they are highly adjustable. Look for “Long” or “Standard Plus” sizes (usually 80+ inches) to ensure you have enough tail length for a safe and comfortable fit.
Can I wear a preemie in a ring sling?
Yes, and it is often encouraged for Kangaroo care. However, preemies have specific airway and muscle tone concerns. Always consult your pediatrician or a certified babywearing consultant before trying it, and prioritize the upright, tummy-to-tummy position.
I just had a C-section. Can I use a ring sling?
Many moms find ring slings comfortable after a C-section because the belt doesn’t sit on the incision. However, listen to your body and your doctor. Wait until you feel ready, carry the baby high, and stop immediately if you feel pressure on your scar or abdominal pain.
Can I carry twins in a ring sling?
You can wear newborn twins in a single sling (tightened around one, then loosened slightly to add the second), but it is tricky. A better option for many twin parents is using two separate ring slings (one on each shoulder) or combining a ring sling with a soft structured carrier.
At what age can you put a baby in a ring sling?
You can use a ring sling from birth (assuming the baby is at least 8 lbs) well into toddlerhood (35 lbs+). Unlike some buckle carriers that require infant inserts, a ring sling adjusts perfectly to a newborn’s size immediately.
Are ring slings safe for newborns?
Yes, if used correctly. The main risk for newborns is positional asphyxiation if their chin drops to their chest. Always use an upright, tummy-to-tummy hold for newborns and ensure you can fit two fingers between their chin and chest.
How long can you carry a baby in a sling?
There is no strict time limit. As long as the baby is in a safe position and you are both comfortable, you can wear them for hours. However, it is good practice to take them out every hour or two for a diaper change, feeding, and to let them stretch their legs.
What should a baby wear under a sling?
Remember that the sling acts as an extra layer of clothing. In cool weather, dress them in normal indoor clothes. In warm weather, dress them lightly (just a diaper or onesie) to prevent overheating. Avoid bulky snowsuits, which make it impossible to get a secure fit.
Does babywearing make babies clingy?
No, this is a myth. Research suggests that meeting a baby’s need for closeness actually builds independence and confidence later in life. You are building a secure attachment base from which they can eventually explore the world.
Can babies overheat in a sling?
Yes. Your body heat combined with the fabric can raise their temperature. In summer, opt for breathable fabrics like linen or single-layer cotton. Check your baby frequently; if they feel hot to the touch or look flushed, take a break.
