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Review: Infantino’s SlingRider
RECALLED 3/23/2010 for safety / suffocation issues. Â Click Infantino recall for longer article.
Bottles? check! Diapers? check! Sling? uh-oh!
Unlike a few years ago, today you see many a parent wearing their little one – the sling is back and they are popping up all over the place. With so many to choose from, where you do you even begin? Right here! This review will focus on the Infantino SlingRider.
Never before could I believe that a sling could be so comfortable for both parent and child – but Infantino has proved me wrong.
For baby, the sling is wide, so that they are comfortable and not crushed in by both sides, while the opening is elastic – creating a nice, semi-closed top that easy to open. Inside where baby is comfortable, there is a swaddling harness, which means older infants (not newborns, who prefer an extra tight blanket swaddle) are able to be securely fastened into the sling. For my newborn, I swaddle him tightly and just place him on top of the extra soft swaddling harness. Very supple, extra breathable mesh around the head means that air is freely exchanged, eliminating stale air for baby to re-breathe. I find the mesh an extra nice feature and of very fine quality.
For parent, the sling is super easy to put on – just slip over your head and onto your non-dominate shoulder. The strap/harness that sits on your shoulder and goes across your back is well-padded and comfortable, even after hours of wear. The fastener is a favorite feature of mine – the end of the fabric has a clip which assures that even at its most slack, the sling is safe and secure. There’s also a compartment by baby’s feet (on the outside of the sling) to store a cell phone, extra bottle, or whatever else you might need on the go.
Pros:
- Comfortable for both baby and wearer
- Wider than other slings, but safe as well
- Convenient swaddling harness
- Breathable mesh
- Secure fastener
- Extra storage
Cons:
- Because of the thick and soft straps, adjusting size is not 1-2-3 simple, but may take a few moments to adjust
All in all, I would whole-heartedly recommend the Infantino SlingRider. From the comfort factor of both parties, to the knowledge that baby is secure and safe, this sling is a must try, if not a must buy.
Of course, not all slings are appropriate for all families and parents. It is very important to find the right sling for you. Remember to ask to try the sling in-store to get a feel for what the sling is all about. If a sling you are interested is unavailable by you and you must purchase online, make sure you are well informed about the company’s return policy.
