Baby Slings / Baby Carriers
Slings and baby carriers are a great way of transporting your baby around in situations where a pram or pushchair wouldn't be convenient. They have the advantage of being hands-free, so are good for shopping etc, and of course if you're walking on rough ground or on the beach a pram is probably more trouble than it's worth.
Back Protection
A propery designed sling is better than simply carrying your child, as the weight will be distributed more evenly around your body rather than being centred in your shoulders, and so strain on your lower back is reduced. (Carrying children and babies is one the major causes of back trouble in young adults!)
Front and Back Carriers
Younger babies under 6 months, and newborns, will probably prefer to be in a front carrier where they can lie against their parent's chest, while older heavier children will be more easily carried on your back and will probably prefer this as they'll get to see more of what's going on!
Hip Seats
A related kind of sling is the 'hip seat', which is not full hands free but consists of a seat attached to the parent at hip level by a strong padded belt. These seats transfer the weight of baby away from the shoulders, as when carrying normally, to the lower back and hips, reducing the chances of back problems. These are a great idea for carrying about in the house or garden, when a sling is too much trouble, especially if the parent already has some back problems.
Featured Baby Carriers
![]() |
Tomy Freestyler Carrier |
![]() |
Baby Bjorn Baby Carriers |


