SavvySlings:HotslingsBabySlingCarrier

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Questions

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a non-adjustable pouch? TOP

A non-adjustable pouch is probably the easiest sling around. You basically just put it on, pop `em in and go! I also like the fact that there`s no slippage or rings of any kind in a non-adjustable sling. I always had trouble with my rings slings because I was either constantly adjusting them or trying to keep my baby`s head from getting bonked on the rings. Pouches are also extremely compact with no long tail. They just pop right in your diaper bag. I also like the ability to swing the baby around on your body quickly and easily from front to hip to back with no adjusting.

On the flip side, sometimes sizing is tricky at first, but once you get it right, it`s awesome. And most people get it right the first time. Also, some people like more or less room during different stages of a baby's life. If your 4 month-old still wants his entire body in the pouch but it won't fit, you will have to either teach him to have his legs out get a larger size for a temporary stage. Once he's happily in the hip carry, you will need less room again.

For the record, I have been wearing my now 4 month 20ish pound son in the same size small red stretch pouch since birth and he still fits in there great.

How stretchy are your stretch pouches? TOP

Hotslings stretch pouches have just a bit of 'give'. They are like stretch jeans or stretch khakis. They are made of woven material with a touch of spandex (Lycra is the brand name of spandex) to help the sling conform a bit to the baby and your shoulder. We use stretch wovens because they are structured, safe and supportive (and you can get lots of cool prints!).

Generally with cotton, the more stretch, the more the fabric tends to stretch out over time. So if you were to put a heavy baby in something unsupportive and too stretchy, the baby would hang down too low and it would be uncomfortable and not secure.

So why would I want a non-stretch reversible? TOP

First, I can offer lots of beautiful choices in reversible. The material is easy to source and readily available.

Secondly, two layers of fabric feels very supportive and is very comfortable. Some people even prefer the non-stretch reversibles over stretch!

Non-stretch reversibles tend to be a bit more snug than stretch cotton pouches. If your stretch cotton pouch is a bit snug, size up on the reversible.

What's the weight/age limit? TOP

Most babies/toddlers will outgrow the desire to be slung before they outgrow the ability for the sling to handle their weight. Also, once a baby hits 30 lbs, it gets difficult for mamas to handle all the extra weight.

What does 'padded' mean? I don't want a bulky carrier. TOP

Leg padding is minimal and discreet and just makes a basic pouch style sling slightly bulkier than a non-padded pouch, but still nothing like a heavily padded ring sling.

Leg padding was designed for babies in the hip carry - toddlers and little babies alike. I also use it flipped on the outside with my little baby as a handle to help bounce him into the pouch as well as a soft place for him to flop into and chew on when in the kangaroo carry.

Can my baby fall out? TOP

If your baby is properly positioned, your sling will keep her secure. Make sure she is deep in the pouch. Also, some people feel more comfortable when learning to sling keeping one hand on the baby.

Again, common sense is important! Put a hand on your baby when you bend down to pick up a toy your 5 year old left out for you to trip over. Savvy Slings and Hotslings are not responsible for accidents due to improper use.

I live in West Texas. Is fleece hot? TOP
Yes! Wearing fleece is like wearing a blanket. It's fantastically comfy, but terrible for hot climates or summer (unless you live where summer is cool - like Vancouver). I only wear my fleece pouch in the winter or in the A/C in the South. I think fleece is great in cold weather though - very snuggly.

I just got my sling and I am not sure it fits! Help! TOP
First, if you are still pregnant, there should be some room in the pouch between your belly and the outer rail. You should be able to open it a few inches. Keep in mind, your belly will be on the way down when the baby's born.

Second, if you get your baby in and it's pulling tight and feels uncomfortable, you need a size up. If you can't get your baby in at all, you probably need 2 sizes up. The bottom of the pouch should be somewhere around your belly button. If it's much lower than this, your pouch is too big and you will need a size down. Generally, if it feels wrong, it is wrong.

The fit around the baby should be snug and create a womb-like swaddled feeling.

I just switched my baby to the hip carry and now she leans way back! Help! TOP
Now you're ready for a technique called the 'shoulder flip.' My pouches are not tacked in any way so you can pull down the top layer of fabric on your shoulder down over your shoulder and this will pull the baby in toward you. This looks really great if you have a reversible with a groovy print on the inside

How do I care for my Hotsling? TOP
Machine wash cold, hang dry. Some pouches are pre-washed and some aren't. It depends on the fabric. Hang drying extends the life of the sling and ensures that your pouch won't shrink.

What is your exchange/return policy? TOP

I will accept returns for refund of new, unused slings within 20 days of shipping date. The refund will be your total amount minus the $4 (or international) shipping and a $5 restocking fee. NO REFUNDS on any custom items or customization!

Exchanges will be accepted for sizing/fabric issues within 30 days of shipping date. Exchanged item must be in NEW CONDITION. Please include return shipping of $4 in the US ($8 Canada, $10 Europe) and exchange form with your sling. Custom items exchange for size down ONLY.

I do alterations for up to one year after purchase. I charge a $5 alteration fee and return shipping of $4 or appropriate international shipping amount.

How do you ship? TOP

Shipping for retail orders is flat rate! Within reason, I will ship several slings to you (in the same order) at one low rate. There are no worries here about being charged more shipping if your dollar amount is higher.

I ship USPS Priority mail to the US and USPS Global Priority internationally where available. If I can't ship Global Priority to your country, I will ship Airmail Parcel Post and I require you to purchase insurance. If you don't see your country in my shipping list, contact me and I'll tell you how to order for shipment to your country.

USPS Priority Mail usually takes a mere 2 days to arrive at your doorstep. If you order an in stock item and it hasn't arrived in a week, please let me know!

If you order both stock items and customs in the same order, I usually ship the stock items right away while your customs are on back order. The only time I may not is if your custom is a child sling or if I know I can get your custom to you really quickly. I try to get the child slings out as soon as possible with your stock items.