As a parent, you’re likely to want to keep your newborn close by and little beats the feeling (for you and baby) of having them nestled on your chest in a sling. Not only does this provide the calming connection that creates a bond between you both, but it frees your hands to get on with jobs or get out and about with more ease.
But many parents are put off this means of baby-wearing by the complexities of tying a traditional sling. Luckily, the Ergobaby Aura Wrap can be pre-tied, making it easier to pop baby in once it’s secured around you. To make things even easier, the Aura Wrap features colour-coded seams, guiding you through the tying process with ease.
It can be used from birth (provided your baby is over 3.6kg) and should last until they’re around a year old, or 11.3kg. The design of the Ergobaby Aura Wrap means it effortlessly grows with your baby – there’s no need to fiddle with buckles or adjust any straps - just tie it according to the easy to use instructions and colour-coded seams.
Mother&Baby/Tim FeridPros
- Can be pre-tied to then pop your baby in when you're ready
- Colour-coded seams make it easier to tie
- Comes in a choice of two fabrics - cooling mesh or cosy knit
- Comfortable to wear
- Designed to promote a healthy hip and leg placement for your baby
- Includes an integrated pouch for easy storage when not in use
- Can be worn by different parents as easily adapted to all heights and sizes
Cons
- More expensive than some wraps
| Suitable for: | Birth/3.6kg - 11.3kg |
| Material: | 100% Tencel™ Lyocell or Recycled Polyester |
| Measurements: | L 490cm x W 53.4cm |
| Washable: | Machine washable at 30°C |
- Grows as your baby grows
- Breastfeeding friendly
- Integrated storage pouch
- Approved by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute
The ergonomic design is supportive and safe for both baby and parents. For baby, it supports the essential squat-spread position, promoting a healthy M-shape leg position and healthy development for your baby’s back, head, and neck. For parents, it distributes your baby’s weight evenly across your back and hips, alleviating common back pains associated with carrying.
The Ergobaby Aura Wrap is available in two types of fabric; mesh to provide a cooler experience for baby with moisture-wicking and breathable fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, and knit, for a cosy and soft feel with sustainably sourced Tencel™ Lyocell fibres.
Read on to find out what Tim and his partner, Olivia, a midwife, thought when they tried the Ergobaby Aura Wrap with their 3 month old baby, Otis.
Testing the Ergobaby Aura Wrap
Me and my partner are new parents to our baby boy Otis who is now 3 months. We wanted a wrap carrier/sling to make those tasks around the house that bit easier when you have a baby, particularly a newborn, who is getting used to the world and wants to be held.
I tested the product around the house whilst doing light housework including washing up, hoovering and whilst doing things like getting ready in the morning. My other half also tested the product whilst doing some work from his computer whilst baby contact-napped.
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First impressions
It’s lightweight, soft and breathable compared to some other wrap carriers so you don’t need to worry about baby overheating. The colour is neutral and practical (dark!), but I believe comes in other colours to choose from.
The wrap can be used from newborn upwards to 11.3kg (approx 1 year) meaning that you get good use out of it and can enjoy having baby close to you - which is particularly helpful if breastfeeding.
Ease of use and practicality
It comes with instructions inside the wrap about how to put it on, making them accessible and easy to find. It can also be pre-tied and worn throughout the day so baby can be taken in and out of the wrap as needed. The wrap also has a built-in pocket meaning it’s easy to put away and doesn’t need an extra bag. It has a hook too which means we can easily hang it on the back of baby’s door in his nursery to have it to hand when needed. It’s machine washable which is great for baby if they have any spit ups or dribble.
Any downsides?
The only con I would say is that it does feel a little less “stable” and looser than other wraps although baby is in there safely. It is also not the cheapest out there so if you are on a tighter budget, it may not be the best value for money.
Final verdict
Overall, I would recommend the aura baby wrap for those who are happy to spend a little more money - it is vital for those early days for keeping baby close comfortable and safe.
Ergobaby Aura Wrap
The Ergobaby Aura Wrap has made it to the top of our recent list of the best baby slings and wraps so it’s certainly one to consider if you’re looking for a sling for your baby.
FAQs
Are baby slings OK for newborns?
Baby slings can be a fantastic way to carry your newborn. Provided your baby is at the recommended weight for the sling (in the case of the Ergobaby Aura Wrap, this is 3.6kg), then a baby sling is a great choice for a newborn baby. The NCT says that slings can "help parents and babies to bond and stay active while navigating the changes of new parenthood" and can promote "bonding and interactions that improve their baby’s speech, social and emotional development."
How do you use a sling safely?
As with all aspects of those early months, it pays to be aware of the risks and know how to use a sling safely. The Lullaby Trust recommends keeping the TICKS guidelines in mind:
Tight
In view at all times
Close enough to kiss
Keep chin off the chest
Supported back
This makes sure your baby's airway is clear and that you can keep an eye on them and check that they're comfortable and not overheating.
Rebecca Lancaster is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby, drawing on ten years of parenting her two children to help others navigating their own parenting journey. As a freelance writer, she spent ten years working with leading lifestyle brands, from travel companies to food and drink start-ups, and writing everything from hotel reviews to guides to the best British cheeses. She’s particularly interested in travel and introducing her children to the excitement of visiting new places, trying different foods (less successful) and experiencing different cultures.