A guide to ring slings for newborns

Ring slings are one of the most ergonomic, adjustable, and convenient ways to keep your baby close from day one. This guide covers everything you need to get started, including: 

• Why they work: The benefits of "M-position" hip support and hands-free bonding.
• How to use one: A quick step-by-step for a safe, secure carry.
• Safety tips: Essential advice for positioning and breastfeeding on the go.
• Buying advice: How to choose the best "newborn-ready" fabrics and shoulder styles.

Are Ring Slings Good for Newborn Babies?

Yes! Using a ring sling for a newborn is an easy, safe way to keep them close. Here are some of the reasons why ring slings are a great option:

• They support your baby in a secure ergonomic position, supporting their hips.
• You can achieve a snug and secure fit, keeping your baby close to your body in a way that feels comfortable for both of you.
• They are easily adjustable, comfortable and quick to use.
• This adjustability makes them suitable for wearers of all sizes and shapes. 
• You can have your hands free while still tending to your baby's needs, soothe them and provide a sense of security.
• Ring slings make breastfeeding and bottle feeding on the go much more manageable. 
• They are lightweight and will easily fit in your bag.
• Ring slings can accommodate your baby's changing needs as they grow. From a snug front carry for newborns to the hip carry for older infants, which allows them a great view.

How do Ring Slings Work?

Ring slings  are made from specially woven sling fabric and secured at the shoulder with rings. Ring slings are very quick to put on, the single layer of fabric easily moulds around your little one.  The sling is secured on the shoulder through a set of safety tested rings.

How do I use a ring sling with my newborn baby

Ring Slings are easy to use once you know how. 

• Thread the fabric through the rings.
• Loop the ring sling over one shoulder
• Size the pouch by tightening your bottom rail. 
• Seat your baby on top the fabric, making an 'M' position with their legs.
• Spread the fabric up their back to the nape of their neck.
• Move any slack to  the rings and then tighten the slack through the rings.

 Learn about using your ring sling safely with your newborn.

Here are some top tips for using a ring sling with a newborn.

Finally, some tips for how to breastfeed your baby in a ring sling.

Always remember your safety checks when breastfeeding in a baby sling or carrier

• Using a sling or carrier for breastfeeding is not hands free - you must always use one hand to support baby’s head.
• Never use the sling fabric to support your baby’s head; they must be able to latch off and on freely.
• Constantly monitor your baby when breastfeeding.
• Ensure baby always has good airflow, their back is supported so they are not slumped, and their chin is not pressed against their chest. 
• Be aware of trip hazards when loosening a woven wrap.
• When you finish nursing, immediately return your baby to the normal upright carrying position and re-tighten the sling to be hands-free again.

How to Choose the Best Ring Sling for your baby

There are lots of different fabrics to choose from when you’re shopping for a ring sling. When looking for a newborn blend there is no single ‘best blend’ and it's generally recommended to pick something you love the look of as it can generally be made to work and you're more likely to use it.

But, there are some properties that yarns have which might suit you and your family -

Fabric Blend	Best For	Key Characteristics
100% Cotton	Beginners	Durable, breathable, and easy to machine wash.
Linen / Hemp	Warm Weather	Strong, supportive, and gets softer with every wash.
Bamboo / Tencel	Newborns	Extremely soft, silky, and drapes beautifully.
Cotton Blends	All-rounders	Combines the ease of cotton with added softness/texture.

When looking for a wrap for a newborn you should look out for words such as ‘malleable’, ‘soft’, ‘mouldable’ and ‘glide’ in our descriptions. Many descriptions will also tell you if the blend is newborn-friendly!

What Type of Ring Sling Shoulder Should You Choose?

Our ring slings come in two shoulder styles: Highland Pleated and Gathered.

A Gathered Shoulder Ring Sling 

A gathered style shoulder features a large loop of fabric going through the rings. This allows you to spread the fabric over the shoulder for even weight distribution & good adjustability. 

A Highland Pleat Ring Sling

The Highland pleat style shoulder is designed by Oscha and was inspired by traditional kilts. This shoulder style features fans of pleat work. It sit’s neatly on your shoulder and offers a little padding.collections

 Should I Get a Left or Right Shouldered Ring Sling?

'Left or right shoulder' refers to the position of the rings on your shoulder, if you choose a left shoulder sling the rings will sit on your left side with the baby in the centre or on your right hip.

Left & Right Shoulder ring sling options are offered so that the fade of colours and/or the pattern will sit as pictured when worn on that shoulder. So they are only offered if there is a 'right way up' to the fabric.