Do I go down the wrap rabbit hole just for babywearing around the house?

[IdentityCrisisMama]

So, mamas, I am pretty content with my Maya ring sling and I'm very happy what my DC#2 (15 months) likes the stroller (awesome in the heat we've been having!). BUT, I had an Ergo for a second (before it got stolen) and DC seemed to really like it. I wasn't, however, a big fan of all the buckles. So....

That has me thinking I'd like a wrap but I'm so hesitant to go down that road for a kid that doesn't use a carrier as much as my first. And, our lifestyle has mostly DC in and out of a carrier for brief periods of time, which makes me think it will get little use (and, therefore, I may not get over the learning curve). 

But, but, but!!!  DC really does need some time on me in the day so I can get some work done. She's having some trouble entertaining herself while I do dishes and etc. and I think she would do well with some at home babywearing. For that, the ring sling isn't working because I don't think she likes it all that much.  

I wore my older child FOREVER (the last time I wore her was when she was 7!!) so I'd like to keep wearing this baby until she is much older. 

So, long story short - would you try to score a used wrap if you were in our place?  

[mary3mama]

Originally Posted by IdentityCrisisMama 

So, long story short - would you try to score a used wrap if you were in our place?  

Yep. Would & did.

I used my Ergo and Kozy just for around the house constantly with babies 2 & 3. I swear that using one or the other for back carries was the only way I got anything done (or any sanity) when my youngest was a baby. It was absolutely a lifesaver during that phase where she seriously would NOT be put down.

Once I had her in the back carry I could cook and clean and do things with her older brothers and she could nap or just be happy to be with me. 

[rinap]

I'd start by seeing if there's a babywearing group near you...they may have wraps you can borrow for a month to see if it works for you. But then yeah, I'd try to score a used wrap once you know what works.

[HappyHappyMommy]

Originally Posted by IdentityCrisisMama 
So, long story short - would you try to score a used wrap if you were in our place?  

I would!

[IdentityCrisisMama]

Thanks, ya'll! I've been looking for a babywearing group in my town. Perhaps I'lll see about just buying some gauze. Any thoughts on the difference btw a homemade wrap and one of the professionally woven/designed fabric? 

[DoulaGinny]

Originally Posted by IdentityCrisisMama 

Thanks, ya'll! I've been looking for a babywearing group in my town. Perhaps I'lll see about just buying some gauze. Any thoughts on the difference btw a homemade wrap and one of the professionally woven/designed fabric? 

Just buy some cheap gauze that's sturdy enough and make a wrap that you can tie.  It takes 3-4 yrds depending on your size and needs to be at least 36 inches wide and seamless if possible.  Then there's no weak spot to worry about.  That's what I did for my youngest.  I had that and a Ring Sling - Both homemade and I was thrilled!  I could do any kind of carry possible!  Get the book Babywearing by Maria Blois - Amazon   

Or look up ways to wear babies online.  You'll find plenty of videos!  Just remember to never carry baby with his back-to-your-tummy.  Its very hard on his hips and spine.  A baby's body is made to hug your body, so he/she should always face your body, never away, with dangling legs!   Here are some safety tips:

[mambera]

For the up and down you're wanting I'd actually look for a cheap shorty (2.7-3.2 meters).  You'll get several back carry options with that, you won't have to unwind 4 yards of fabric every time LO wants down, and it sounds like your LO is probably past the point of front carries anyway.

Used shorties can be had for $60-$80 on the FSOT forums at thebabywearer and diaperswappers.

[IdentityCrisisMama]

An update -- 

I did get some gauze -- 1/2 price at the big box fabric store and used it over the festival weekend we just had. It was handy and DC seemed to like it. I loved the front wrap carry for the night she fell asleep and I carried her all around the festival with her head tucked nicely under one of the sides. It felt good, though I could still have done something very similar with the ring sling. What I didn't like was the length (I got 5 yards, which I think shrunk down a bit). It was so long and annoying! 

I love the idea of getting a shorty for just a back carry, though I did love the front carry over the weekend. Dilemma, dilemma!  ;-)  

As far as the gauze, I can see why a thicker fabric is preferable but the gauze was nice for the heat and for washing and drying quickly - it got muddy and beer soaked a few times - doh!  

Anyway, thanks for the help! It was nice to try a new type carrier. 

[mambera]

Originally Posted by IdentityCrisisMama 

I love the idea of getting a shorty for just a back carry, though I did love the front carry over the weekend. Dilemma, dilemma!  ;-)

You can probably do a kangaroo or FWCC tied under bum with a short wrap, exactly how short depends on your size and the size of your child. 

I used to be able to kangaroo with 2.7m when DD2 was smaller, 3.2m may be enough even for a larger child, again depending on your size.  Your gauze would probably not be comfortable in a single layer carry but you could try using it to determine the minimum wrap you need for a one-layer front carry and then looking for a used woven in that size.  HTH