Which type do you recommend for a new user? I'm mainly looking for something that will work well for a newborn through infant stage, but both my newborns have been 9 lbs at birth...
Is it worth it to spend more on the linen vs the 100% cotton?
Are they hard to use? DD2 and I never had any luck with the Moby. I finally figured out how to wrap it, and she hated being wrapped. Is a ring sling any easier?
Re: Sleeping Baby Ring Slings
I personally prefer linen - just more supportive and nicer in a sling I think. As for hard to use...all carriers have some sort of learning curve to them. You might look to see if there are babywearers in your area who could give you some hands on help.
Oh, and you might consider buying used - thebabywearer.com has a FSOT forum with plenty of used slings.
Breastfeeding Counselor with Breastfeeding USA
Babywearing Guide ** Newborn Carriers
Cloth Diaper Guide
Safe Bed Sharing Info
My first was almost 10lbs, and I used a sling until she was almost 2. It was such an easy and comfortable way to keep her close as a baby, and later kept her from wandering in stores and such as she became adventurous.
I made my own, since I am fairly crafty. You can find a pattern online; the entire process is about 30 mins, and $10-20. Fabric choice is really just a matter of aesthetics. Cotton, linen, silk, whatever you want. I live in Miami, so I will go with a linen sling this time around, just due to the heat and humidity. Silk or flannel is better for cooler/dry climates, and cotton is always good.
If you purchase one, you can get a good one at Target for $30. They have quite a few on their website, including organic cotton slings. On the other hand, some sling sites specializing in high-end fabrics advertise products that cost several hundred dollars.
Either way, it's a great way to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free.
BFP#2 3/16/11, beta 138; 4/12 Baby/HB DS born 9/10/11 at 29w4d due to partial abruption and PTL
BFP#3 8/19/13 Another boy! 17P, modified bedrest and Nifedipine helped us have a termie! DS2 born 4/19/14 at 38w5d.