What is a Ring Sling?
A “ring sling” refers to a baby carrier that is a piece of woven fabric threaded through two rings that are sewn at the shoulder. It is weight-tested to carry your wearee safely; typically up to 35 pounds. The fabric can be cotton, linen, silk, wool, blends, etc. Some companies produce them in multiple lengths so you can find your best fit. Your “best fit” can be dependent on your body type as well as the size of your baby. Newborns are worn more centered, high on one’s chest while older babies and toddlers may prefer being more on the hip (though they can be worn centered as well). The “shoulder” of a ring sling can vary based on how it’s sewn and some people find one variation more comfortable for their body than another – try out different ones at a free meeting and get help from a volunteer educator!
How to Wear a Ring Sling
A baby can be worn facing in towards the caregiver on the front, facing towards the caregiver on the hip, facing out (with good head control), or on the back (more advanced carry). Check out these videos and photo tutorials!
Front/Hip Carry in a Ring Sling
Photo Tutorial: https://brittbrownmarsh.com/2017/01/29/tutorial-ring-sling-fronthip-carry/
Back Carry in a Ring Sling
Tandem Babywearing Using Ring Slings
Troubleshooting Ring Sling Threading and Adjustments
Wearing a Ring Sling Out and About
Chestfeeding in a Ring Sling
Additional Resources
“The Amazing Versatility of a Ring Sling”: https://babywearingtwincities.org/blog/the-amazing-versatility-of-a-ring-sling/
Making your own ring sling: http://www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/Baby/sling.html
Where to buy rings: http://www.slingrings.com/
Tandem Trouble Ring Sling Video Playlist: https://youtu.be/WKt8fB2nO60
If you have any questions about babywearing, we encourage you to contact us and/or come learn in person at one of our meetings! Check out our Instagram @Babywearing.Twin.Cities and our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/BabywearingTwinCities/).