I first used this sling for a trip abroad when the boy was about 9 months old. He had no problems falling asleep in his carseat but should he wake up, only constant movement would lull him back. Also, he wasn’t one of those sleeping stroller babies!
Ryeli’s Mummy recommended this sling and lent me her spare one in Light Blue Tropix. The sling fits all sizes, is lightweight and can also be used as a blanket. She uses a silk one and warned me that the cotton one may be more difficult to adjust.
PROs
+ My boy slept soundly from the time I put him into the sarong sling (when we landed) —> check-in at the hotel (photo credit).
+ Despite the noise coming from baggage handling, queuing to alight from the aircraft, going up and down escalators and the crowd, he didn’t budge an inch!
+The biggest test came during our ride to the hotel – he slept soundly through booming music blasted from two huge speakers!
+On the flight back, we were delayed at the airport and again, I found the sling invaluable for letting him sleep in peace. The cotton material was light and breathable, which meant he was cool and comfy. This is especially important as he sweats a lot.
+ Having him in the sling meant that my hands were free to do other things. However, I always kept one hand around his body or his head to keep the sling steady as I moved.
+I would have also found the sling ideal for discreet breastfeeding. I could easily do that and nobody would be any wiser since the sling material falls out in fan folds over Mummy’s chest, much like how an Indian saree would.
+ An added point is that the sling’s attractive prints meant that Mom looks good too!
Sarong slings for sale on Amazon:
Challenges
- One of the challenges you’d encounter setting up the sling is when you insert the folds through the double rings correctly to ensure a smooth spread of the fabric. If you get this wrong, the baby’s weight will strain your back and you will also find the length hard to adjust.
- Getting him in the first few times was tricky too as I had to do this quickly before he struggles and gets all hot and bothered. He was a BIG baby so Mummy was sweating too!
- The cotton material doesn’t slide through the rings smoothly (as my friend had warned).
The Verdict
For Moms thinking of getting a sling (particularly for breastfeeding or outings), I’d say “Go ahead!”. After this experience, I got one for myself from TheBabyLoft and am now trying it out now with my 12.7 kg toddler 
Handy Hints:
- Use a full-length mirror when you try it on the first time. Practise inserting the material through the rings for the correct fold. It’s important that the material is flat across your back, not twisted in a knot. This ensures that the baby’s weight does not strain your back.
- When baby is in the sling, check that the rings are above your breast, not pressing on it. If they are, baby’s weight pressing on the rings (on your breasts) may encourage blocked ducts if you’re breastfeeding.
