Juno Best Buy – Babywearing
Reader recommendations
Joy and Joe Organic Bamboo Stretchy Wrap
“These Joy and Joe Baby bamboo stretchy wraps are super popular in my sling library, so I thought I would share with you some of the reasons why. Made from 49% organic bamboo, 47% organic cotton and 4% elastane, the wrap stretches both widthways and lengthways – known as a two-way stretch – and can, therefore, be pre-tied around the wearer before baby is even disturbed. The wrap is tied on ‘swimsuit tight’ and then the stretch allows for space to be made for baby. The elasticity is what holds baby secure without the wrap needing to be readjusted or tightened after they’re in. Being 96% organic means the material is not only better for the planet, but it is also soft and snuggly and suitable for use from birth. Bamboo is naturally hypo-allergenic, anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and UV protective. The wrap is machine-washable and dries fairly quickly due to its breathability and lightweight fabric.” Helen
From £38
Bon + Bear Maine Nursing Wrap
“I have been using this wrap in Sand Leopard Print for a while now, and it is truly amazing – stylish, versatile and comfortable. I love using it and being able to have my son so close to my chest. It is perfect for wearing daily and I carry my son everywhere in it!” Lucy
The wrap is available in two lengths and is made from 95% Oeko-Tex cotton and 5% elastane. It is machine-washable and comes in a drawstring bag. This is a 3-in-1 wrap for nursing, skin-to-skin and babywearing, to encourage bonding, increase milk supply and reduce infant crying, with the aim of helping new mamas.
£45
Oscha Slings Map of Middle Earth Compass Ring Sling
“I was so happy to wear my newborn straight from the hospital in my Oscha Slings Middle Earth Compass Ring Sling. I love both the flexibility of this sling, with its highland pleat, and the design; I get to carry my baby and my fandom wherever I go! Ring slings are a great way to babywear from newborn to toddler. I love Oscha – not only do they provide beautiful, comfortable and functional ways to carry your bundle of joy, all their slings are ethically made.” Ashlee
Unfortunately the Middle Earth Compass Ring Sling is now out of stock, but Oscha have a large Middle Earth range with wraps and ring slings, including the Middle Earth Scroll Ring Sling which is also handmade in Scotland. It’s woven on a chocolate organic cotton warp, which gives a delicate strength and gentle malleability, and has a cream Britspun Supima cotton weft which picks out the intricate map pattern and provides added cush and shimmer.
£108
Sleepy Nico Custom Carrier “My favourite carrier brand of all time is the incredible Sleepy Nico. I was fortunate enough to come across Sleepy Nico at a sling library not long after the birth of my first daughter, and was delighted to find that they offered custom designs as well as their beautiful premade ones. I spent hours choosing fabric with lots of back and forth with the owner of Sleepy Nico, Angeline, who was hugely patient and lovely despite my inability to make a decision! After my daughter, I went on to have a son and another daughter, and each have their own Sleepy Nico that was designed for them in the hope that one day they will use their Sleepy Nico for their own little ones. I love everything about this brand; it’s a small business and the service is personal and friendly. I have become a little addicted to babywearing and am now a peer supporter. This photo of me with my youngest was taken by my husband. The deer wandered into the shot and made it the perfect moment to capture!” Kelly
Sleepy Nico carriers are made in the UK. They are suitable for use from 3–4 months, and are available in baby and toddler sizes.
Premade carriers from £55. Custom-made carriers from £85
This feature was originally published in JUNO Late Summer 2020.
Current Issue – Winter 2020