Our Willow Sling is made of 100% Belgium linen and designed and hand sewn in Dallas, Texas. We carefully designed our slings to be ergonomic for the comfort of both mom and baby. Because Belgium linen is a natural fiber made from flax seed, it allows for insulation in the cooler months and breathable in the warmer months which allows for comfort in all seasons. "Unique" Color: Steel Grey *Our Willow Slings are a giveback in support of the Labor of Hope Organization. The Labor of Hope is a faith-based non-profit organization that exists to value and celebrate every life. We accomplish this by supporting and equipping families who have received a critical or life-limiting diagnosis during pregnancy. Carefully read and follow all instructions before use of a Willow ring sling. Check for ripped seams, torn straps or fabric, and damaged hardware before each use. If found, stop using carrier. Always check to ensure that all knots, fabric and adjustments are secure before each use and while the child is in the sling. Ensure that the baby is safely positioned in the sling carrier according to manufacturer’s instructions for use. Never leave a baby in a sling carrier that is not being worn. Check on the baby often. Ensure that the baby is periodically re-positioned. Always wear your child safely positioned facing towards your body in the front or hip carry positions with legs positioned in the proper “M” position as stated in instructional; this carrier is not designed to be used in an outward seated position. Always support child when making adjustments of fit or repositioning. Never use a sling carrier when balance or mobility is impaired because of exercise, drowsiness, or medical conditions. Never place more than one baby in the sling carrier. Never use/wear more than one carrier at a time. Never use sling carrier while engaging in activities such as cooking and cleaning which involve a heat source or exposure to chemicals. Never wear sling carrier while driving or being a passenger in a motor vehicle. Machine washable in cold water; air or tumble dry on low heat. Check fabric and all seams are secure after washing. Discontinue use if any flaws found. Instructions: Putting on your ring sling Loop the tail of your sling through both rings and then back over the top ring under the bottom ring similar to a belt. Put the ring sling on like a sash, with the rings just below your shoulder and the tail hanging down in front. Spread out the fabric to ensure it’s not twisted. Tighten or loosen the fabric to create a pouch for your baby. Tummy to tummy carry or hip carry Hold baby high on your shoulder in burp position and slowly lower them into the pouch you created. Pull the fabric between yours and your baby’s tummy up to create a deep seat position. While holding your baby securely with one hand under their bottom pull the top fabric to the top of their back/nape of their neck; this keeps their head from freely flopping back. Begin tightening your top piece of fabric also called the top rail by pulling it towards the rings and down through the tails, repeat with the bottom piece of fabric also called the bottom rail. The bottom rail should be sung enough to keep your baby in a deep seated position, but not too tight to risk losing the ergonomical “m” position. Remove any slack while securing baby in a high seated position, close enough to kiss their head without straining to reach them. Their knees should always be above their bottom creating an “m” position. For newborns still in curled “froggy” position their knees will stay bent in front of their body. For older babies their knees will spread slightly to the sides still slightly raised above their bottom; with their calves and below coming through the bottom of the pouch. In a carrier, your baby should be in the same position he would be in your arms: head at your collarbone, and bottom above your waist. Check your baby’s position by embracing him after settling him into the carrier. His position should not shift significantly; if it does, adjust the carrier until he is in an in-arms position. -Hip Carry (used only when the child has complete head and trunk control) -Place your baby or toddler on your hip and follow steps 2-4 for a Tummy to Tummy carry. Removing your baby from your ring sling While securely holding your baby with a hand at their lower back and bottom, begin loosening the fabric from the rings. Lift your baby towards your shoulder in a burping position and out of the sling. Breastfeeding in your sling After nursing in a carrier, remove baby from breast and return baby to a proper carrying position. Baby’s head should be above the breasts with face free of fabric and turned away from the mother’s body. Baby Wearing Safety Tips: -Test your carrier’s construction regularly: be sure there are no tears or loose seams and that all attachment points are secure. -Check your baby’s position periodically, reposition baby if necessary. Ensure you can see baby’s face at all times. Do not let baby’s face press into your body or clothing. Do not cover baby’s face with a blanket, sling fabric, nursing covers, etc. -Make sure baby’s head and neck are fully supported, with chin off chest; if baby’s chin is pressed tightly to his chest this can restrict baby’s airway. Check to ensure you can slip your finger between baby’s chin and chest. -Consult an expert if your infant was born at a low birth weight, such as a preemie or twin, has low muscle tone past infancy, or if he or she has a respiratory illness or other breathing problems. Extra vigilance is required with these babies. -Your center of gravity is different when wearing your baby. Be mindful of baby’s head and body when going through doorways, and be cautious with your balance on slippery or uneven surfaces. -When considering an activity, remember that if you wouldn’t do it while holding a baby in your arms, you shouldn’t do it with your baby in a carrier. For example, don’t drive with your baby in a carrier (that’s what car seats are for), participate in sports, cook over a hot surface or flame, go jogging etc. -Baby will get extra body heat while being worn. Be careful not to overdress baby while in the carrier. However, if worn over your outerwear in the winter, baby will need adequate cold weather clothing. If worn under your jacket, do not zip your jacket over baby’s face. Your baby will be able to reach things she otherwise wouldn’t, particularly if she is on your back. Be cautious around items that could be harmful to her.
