This week's message:

I've started using the sewing slot system again. I hate to do it, but I simply can't keep up with the order volume that's been consistently high for months now. Please click the link for an explanation of how it works and why I need to use it.

At right, In-stock slots are for fabrics I have on hand (basic and organic fabrics) and will be sewing from scratch; WCRS slots are for things you're having sent to me like wrap pieces, custom fabric, or sling shoulder redos. Next refresh is the date and time I will be adding more sewing slots.

I've changed from sewing a mix of WCRS and in-stock slings each week, to just doing WCRS one week and in-stocks the next. I think this will be more efficient and allow me to sew more slings, and may also may sewing slots easier to get. Sewing slots for both types will be added every other week, in a several batches to give people in different time zones the opportunity to order. If these present a difficulty for you, please email me at info@sleepingbaby.net and let me know.

Precautions and Warnings

READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE USING YOUR SLING.

Safe use of any baby carrier depends on the user.
 Always put your baby's safety first.

Always keep these safety instructions in mind:

The sling is intended for carrying children from their full-term birth until 35 pounds. However, your own body may have different limitations. Do not attempt to use a sling to carry a child you wouldn't ordinarily carry in your arms. If your baby is premature or breathing-compromised, check with a physician before using any baby-holding device, including a sling, and never use a "cradle hold" with premature or compromised infants, only an upright carry.

Any carrier should hold your baby the way you would hold him in your arms. Do not use the ring sling to put your baby in a position in which you wouldn't hold him in your arms.

Your sling should always be snug against your child's body.

NEVER cover your child's face with your sling.

Newborns and small infants are at risk for positional asphyxia. The weight of your child's head should be supported and his neck should be mostly straight at all times.  If your child is grunting or seems distressed, reposition him.  There is an excellent article about positioning for newborns at http://www.thebabywearer.com/articles/HowTo/Positioning.pdf

Except when the baby is breastfeeding, you should be able to easily kiss the top of his head. When breastfeeding, you should be able to see his face at all times. It is possible for a baby to suffocate while breastfeeding, so please don't rely on "intuition" -- regularly check your baby's breathing while you are nursing. His nose should always be clear of breast tissue, not pressed into the breast. This is true when nursing at any time, not just in a sling, but because a carrier can be improperly used to block your view of his face, you need to be extra vigilant if you breastfeed in any carrier.

A baby carrier should NEVER be used as a child safety seat. This sling may not be used as a carseat, while riding a bicycle, or using other moving equipment. 

Do not use your sling during tasks that may injure your child, such as while operating heavy machinery, participating in sports, or doing anything that could cause harm to the child or cause the child to fall out of the carrier.

Do not use the sling near open flames or high heat, as the fabric is not fire-retardant or -resistant, and neither is your baby!

Be aware of the sling tail position: with a longer tail, it is advisable to tuck the tail into the body of the sling, throw it over your shoulder, or wrap it around the rings, so you do not trip over the tail or otherwise become entangled in it.

With all those precautions in mind, also remember that a baby sling is a terrific tool that can help you greatly in daily life; it just needs to be used carefully. Just like riding a bicycle, you need to be safe while you're enjoying the ride, but don't let it keep you from enjoying the ride!