Baby won’t stop crying? I’ve been there too. Holding your little one all day leaves your arms tired and sore, while the housework keeps piling up.

It feels like you need eight arms just to get through the day! Good news – you don’t need to be an octopus. A ring sling can be your extra pair of hands.

This simple cloth carrier with two metal rings lets you hold your baby close while keeping your hands free for other tasks. I’ll show you how to use a ring sling.

How to Use a Ring Sling

Using a ring sling is a simple and comfortable way to carry your baby close to you. This step-by-step guide will help you learn how to wear and adjust the sling safely and easily.

Prepare the Sling

Hold the ring sling with the rings in one hand and the long tail in the other. Make sure the fabric is not twisted and the tag is facing up.

Thread the Sling

Pass the sling’s tail through both rings, like threading a belt. Pull the tail back over the top ring and through the bottom ring. Spread the fabric evenly through the rings to avoid twists.

Put on the Sling

Slip the sling over your head so the rings rest high on your shoulder, near your collarbone. The pouch (where your baby will sit) should hang in front of you at about belly button level.

Place Your Baby in the Sling

Hold your baby close to your chest or hip. Slide your baby’s legs through the sling pouch so they sit in a natural “M” position, with knees higher than the bottom and legs spread comfortably.

Adjust for Comfort and Safety

Lift the fabric behind your baby’s back and pull the bottom rail up between their legs to create a deep seat. Tighten the sling by pulling the fabric through the rings, making sure your baby is snug and secure but comfortable.

Spread the Fabric

Spread the sling fabric widely across your back and shoulders to evenly distribute your baby’s weight. The rings should stay high on your shoulder, away from your neck, for comfort.

Final Checks

Make sure your baby’s face is visible and close enough to kiss. Their airway should be clear, and they should be sitting securely in the sling with good support.

When Should You Start Using a Ring Sling for Babywearing?

You can start using a ring sling for babywearing as soon as your baby is born and meets the weight guidelines. Knowing the right time helps keep your baby safe and comfortable while being close to you.

Using a Ring Sling from Birth

You can start using a ring sling for babywearing from the very first days after your baby is born, as long as your baby weighs at least 8 pounds or meets the sling’s minimum weight limit.

Ring slings are designed to support newborns safely in an upright position, keeping their head and neck secure.

Always make sure your baby’s face is visible and their airway is clear. Newborns love being close to their parents, and a ring sling helps provide comfort and bonding.

Safety and Comfort Considerations

Before using a ring sling, check that your baby is healthy and strong enough for babywearing, especially if they were born early or have special needs.

Make sure the sling is threaded correctly and fits snugly but comfortably. The fabric should support your baby’s back and neck, and the rings should sit high on your shoulder.

If you have any doubts, ask your pediatrician for advice before starting.

Growing with Your Baby

A ring sling is not just for newborns can be used as your baby grows into a toddler.

As your child gets bigger, you can adjust the sling for hip carries and quick up-and-down moments.

The sling’s adjustable design makes it easy to keep your baby close, if you’re at home or on the go.

This makes the ring sling a smart and flexible choice for babywearing from birth through toddlerhood.

The Benefits of Using a Ring Sling for Parents

Using a ring sling offers many benefits for parents. It makes it easier to carry and care for their baby, provides comfort and convenience, and helps strengthen the bond between parent and child.

• Ring slings let parents carry their baby hands-free, making it easier to do daily tasks, run errands, or care for older children while keeping the baby close and content.
• They are quick and easy to put on, and their compact size means you can fold them up and carry them in your bag for emergencies or travel.
• Ring slings support close contact, which helps babies feel safe and secure, and strengthens the emotional bond between parent and child.
• The adjustable design allows for comfortable carrying from newborn to toddler, with options for front, hip, or back carries as your child grows.
• Using a ring sling can reduce a baby’s crying and improve sleep, which leads to better rest and less stress for parents.
• Ring slings are practical for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, offering discreet cover and easy access for feeding on the go.
• Carrying your baby in a ring sling can also help improve your mental health by reducing stress and making you feel more connected and confident as a parent.

The Bottom Line

So, after learning how to use a ring sling, what’s next? Practice makes perfect!

Try the steps I shared a few times until you feel comfortable. Your baby will enjoy the closeness while you can move around freely.

Why does this matter? A good ring sling makes daily life easier for new parents. It gives you back your hands while keeping your baby snug and secure.

Ready to get started? Take your ring sling, follow the steps in this guide, and enjoy those precious bonding moments with your little one.