Consumer Product Safety Commision’s new chairman, Tenenbaum, is “planning” on issuing a warning about baby slings. Too late, the media already has for them and it’s gotten so blown out of proportion that I feel sorry for parents trying to understand if their child is in jeaopardy or not.

It is important to understand that the concern is over specific type of baby sling, the “bag-style” slings. These slings wrap around the parent’s neck and cradle the baby in a curved or C-like position. Over the past 11 years there have been 7 babies that have died in baby slings and 37 infants who have been seriously injured. Recent recalls have been associated with baby slings, specifically the Ellaroo and Infantino baby slings.

The concern with this style of baby sling is that the curved position can cause the baby, who has little head and neck control in the early months, to flop its head forward, chin-to-chest — restricting the baby’s ability to breathe. Another potential danger: the baby can turn its face toward Mom’s chest or belly and smother in the parent’s clothing. Baby Sling Safety does an excellent job of explaining the dangers of bag style carriers when the recalls had happened.

Several baby sling and carrier manufacturers have come together to speak out on this issue. “We see this as an opportunity to reach out and educate American consumers. We hope to provide valuable information allowing parents and caregivers to not only make informed buying decisions, but also to increase the awareness of how to properly wear children, especially babies, in baby slings and carriers

In well-designed products, babywearing is not only safe, but is actually very beneficial when done properly. Studies have shown that quality baby slings and carriers have been shown to save lives, improve health, decrease crying, increase IQ, and facilitate breastfeeding and bonding. Millions of babies over time have been worn to their benefit making baby slings and carriers more of a necessity than the often-publicized fashion accessory. (Source La Leche League International)

Several trusted websites exist to aide in the education of babywearing for caregivers and new parents. To name a few: TheBabywearer.com, the Facebook fan page for Babywearing Safety, Mothering.com and LaLecheLeague.org.

As with everything else you purchase for your baby, make sure there are not any recalls on the products. If you can find a place locally to try on the carrier and have a specialist fit you and your child properly, would benefit you greatly. At our store, we recommend you come and see why the proper carriers benefit your baby.

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