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Baby slings & wraps: are they dangerous?

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Ever since little Marcel was born in May 2011, we have rarely seen Marion Cotillard separated from her baby. The Oscar-winning French actress has developed a warm, glowing motherly look, and she is often seen cuddling and caressing the baby, usually carrying him using a baby sling tied around her torso.

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A baby sling is a traditional form of carrying a baby and can be worn in several ways. The most common is to fasten it with an elastic wrap tied around the mother’s body, allowing her to carry the baby close to her chest. This can strengthen bonds with the newborn in a comfortable way for both mother and baby. Although there has been concern about its safety aspects, a baby sling isn't any more dangerous than a backpack baby carrier. Properly tied, it allows you to hold the baby in an efficient position from birth until the child is 2-3 years old. Most baby slings are ecological; kepinas, obis and mei-tais are usually made of breathable organic cotton; making them compatible and comfortable for a baby's delicate skin. 

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It is also ideal for the baby’s posture: it supports the newborn’s neck and doesn’t strain its spine. As an added bonus, the baby sling frees up a mother's hands to multi-task without forcing her to lose eye contact with her baby as she carries him close to her chest. Other advantages include its low cost, especially compared to a backpack or push-chair. A baby sling gives the baby privacy, allowing mother and child to breast-feed discreetly. And the baby can hear his Mum’s heartbeat, a very soothing, calming sound for a small child. For safety, make sure the baby’s nose, chin and mouth are far enough from its mother's body to ensure free air flow. Woven wraps can be used on your back, front and hip but stretchy wraps should only be used on your front. Mei Ties and similar can be worn on both your back and front.

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