Choosing a baby carrier can be difficult for first time mums, given that there are such a large range on the market - from slings to baby bjorns, to front and back carrying options. Over the past 6 weeks I have tested my Sleepy Wrap baby carrier for its practicality, comfort, and overall functionality. I have also used a baby sling and baby bjorn carrier with bubs, so am feeling like quite the qualified road-tester!
Bubs unfortunately has reflux and so far will only settle during the day by being held up-right. This means that the pram is not an option, nor is sleeping in the cot. The Sleepy Wrap has therefore been a CONSTANT part of my last 6 weeks, not only as a settling tool but also enabling me to get out and about. Every morning after breakfast I put her in the Sleepy Wrap and head out for a stroll around the local park - Harper is asleep within minutes and I can enjoy some fresh air and exercise (what a great way to start the day!).
Its such a relief to have found a settling tool that works for me every time. The Sleepy Wrap enables this as shes is calmed by the closeness to me, my movement, heartbeat and scent. During un-settled periods she’s put straight in the wrap and taken for a quick stroll (or if its raining, I’ll step onto Wii Fit for a stroll!).
The Sleepy Wrap provides comfortable back support for both of us, meaning that I can keep her in there for long periods without either of us getting uncomfortable. I have used many types of carriers, and this carrier wins hands down on the comfort front.
My tips for fellow Sleepy Wrap-ers:
PRACTICE TYING BEFORE BUBS ARRIVES
Perhaps use a teddy or if you’re local pop into bebe for some practice and tying tips! This way, once baby is born you wont have to waste any preicous time with getting it on correctly, and bubs can be soothed as fast as possible. My husband got the hang of it faster than me despite my pre-baby training, - I can only attribute that one to “baby brain” and sleep deprivation.
SELECT COLOUR CAREFULLY
I have a black Sleepy Wrap which works great for me as most of my winter wardrobe is dark and Melbourne is very wintery. However we have had a few hot days in April, and I found both myself and bubs got very hot out in the sun. If I were to be giving birth in the warmer months (or living in a warmer climate), I would have purchased a lighter colour. That said, I will most likely be purchasing a second Sleepy Wrap come summer.
PRE-PLAN CAR TRIPS
If you’re taking bubs out in the car and dont want to have to un-settle her too much at the other end, I would recommend tying your Sleepy Wrap before you hop in the car (placing baby in her car seat). Then once you arrive at the other end and need to get bubs out of the car, you are all ready to go. This tip is particularly useful when you have other children and need to move fast (such as school pick ups etc).
The Sleepy Wrap has assisted to make my overall experience with Harper that so much more peaceful, enjoyable and enabled us to bond in these early weeks. There arent many products on the market that I can say have contributed in such a profound way.
Check out the Sleepy Wrap here.. and feel free to email me (carey@bebeonline.com.au) with any troubleshooting queries on the Sleepywrap, as I’d be happy to help!
