Archive for the ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ Category

Facing Outward in the Ergo Baby Carrier

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

We frequently get emails from parents looking for a baby carrier where their baby can face forward. Recently Jennifer from Seattle emailed and wanted to know if this is possible with the Ergo Baby Carrier.

Parents that are interested in a forward facing carrier should consider why they want one. Is it because the parents assume a baby will want to see what is going on around them just as an adult does, or will a baby truly enjoy facing outward? Babies benefit from being able to make eye contact with their parent, watch their facial expressions, and social interactions. Babies that are forward facing cannot do these things.

Babies that are forward facing can also easily become overstimulated. A babies senses are raised and very aware. So much is new to them, and they still have a whole world to discover. What would seem to be a normal situation for us can actually become too much stimuli for them. Babies in forward facing carriers are unable to turn away from a busy environment and find the calming comfort of their parents face.

A baby can also sleep much easier by resting their head on your chest. A baby facing forward cannot find a stable position for their head, and their head will bob around limiting the quality of their sleep. So we cannot in good conscious recommend forward facing baby carriers. High quality baby carriers such as the Ergo Baby Carrier, Beco Baby Carrier, and BabyHawk do not support the forward facing position.

An alternative to wearing your baby facing out is using the hip carry which can be done with both the Ergo Baby Carrier, BabyHawk, and all baby slings. This is not as supportive as a two shouldered carry, but allows your baby a wider range of movement to observe the environment while still providing them the ability to turn away and find comfort from you.

Popularity: 55% [?]

La Stella Blu Holiday Shipping

Friday, December 19th, 2008

As of 12-19-08 the only guaranteed shipping method to receive your package by Christmas is USPS Express Shipping.  The cost varies per order, and it is a 1-2 day delivery depending upon your location.

All other orders will now be shipped using our standard methods USPS Priority Mail (2-4 day delivery) or FedEx Home Delivery (up to 5 business days). If you have special shipping needs, please let us know in your comments during checkout.

Visit La Stella Blu for all of our great holiday deals.

Popularity: 15% [?]

Holiday Shipping at La Stella Blu

Sunday, December 14th, 2008

At La Stella Blu we want to make sure your gifts arrive by Christmas. So as the holidays draw closer we have a couple of tips for you to ensure your gifts arrive on time.

  • Order by 12-18 to make sure your gifts have 2-4 days to arrive by USPS Priority Mail.
  • If ordering past 12-18, please contact us to see if your gift will arrive in time or choose USPS Express Shipping. This shipping method is a 1-2 day delivery depending upon your location. In general urban areas are 1 day, while rural areas are a 2 day delivery.
  • Items ordered prior to 12-18 will be shipped either FedEx Home Delivery or USPS Priority Mail. We will monitor delivery times to do our best to ensure your package arrives on time. Please understand that once an item is shipped, we do not have control over the handling of the package or delivery.

    Popularity: 11% [?]

    Hotslings FAQ

    Thursday, July 24th, 2008

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of a fitted pouch?

    A fitted pouch sling is probably the easiest sling around. You basically just put it on, pop `em in and go! There`s no slippage or rings or buckles of any kind in a fitted sling. Hotslings pouches are also extremely compact (even with the tiny amount of padding!) 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. 

    How stretchy are your stretch pouches?

    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?

    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?

    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. Currently (even at 5 months preggo) I can carry my 32 lb 2 year old in a thin, lightweight sling with no problem, but she usually wants out before I get tired of holding her. I think it’s much more difficult to keep them hoisted up on your hip without any sort of sling/carrier.

    What does ‘padded’ mean? I don’t want a bulky carrier.

    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 front carry. 

    Can my baby fall out?

    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 3 year old left out for you to trip over. Hotslings and La Stella Blu are not responsible for accidents due to improper use.

    I live in the Sahara desert. Is fleece hot?

    Yes! I think 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 here in Dallas, TX. I think fleece is great in cold weather though – very snuggly. 

    I just got my sling and I am not sure it fits! Help!

    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. 

    You recommended a small, but it’s too tight. Help!

    As much as we’d like to think that we are psychic (grin), alas we are not, but will do our best to find a good fit for you. There is a lot of hype out there about us being good at sizing, and while that may be true, we are not perfect. We will do our best to fit you, but ultimately, it’s up to you to take a plunge. It is part of the joys of mail-order – like ordering from Gap.com as opposed to going to the mall. 

    I just switched my baby to the hip carry and now she leans way back! Help!

    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?

    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. Fleece pouches can be machine dried. If you are a dryer person, contact customer service on how to buy big (each fabric has a unique shrink rate) so you can machine dry your Hotsling.

    Popularity: 92% [?]

    ERGO Baby Carrier FAQ

    Monday, July 14th, 2008

    What changes have been recently made to the ERGO baby carrier?

    The size and overall function of the ERGO baby carrier remains the same, however, there were a few updates made in June 2007:

    1. CHEST STRAPS & RUNNER – The chest straps are now permanently attached to the shoulder straps with a “runner”, that keep the chest straps in their desired location. The chest straps won’t need readjusting each time the carrier is taken on and off. This new design also eliminates losing the straps when switching to the hip carry position. The runners are dyed to match the carrier and enhance the overall look of the carrier.Note: When using the carrier in the hip position, one chest strap may feel in the way. To alleviate: slide the chest strap out of your way, tuck the strap under the runner, or ask for assistance in connecting the two chest straps in the back (if you are not a yogi!).

    2. HOOD & HOOD STRAPS – The hood straps are now shorter and snap directly onto the shoulder straps. Elastic has been added to the hood, to provide more length to make up for the shorter straps. The hood will now “cup” around your baby’s head. One single D-ring has been provided on the shoulder strap for your personal use.

    3. NEW BOX – The carrier, front pouch, backpack and infant insert now come in a new ERGObaby box. The handle of the box denotes the color of the carrier, and there will be a color dot indicator on the box denoting the color of the carrier lining.

     Is it possible to use two waist extensions with the carrier?

    ERGO baby recommends the use of one ERGO baby waist extension with a carrier, as two compromises the integrity of the carrier.

     How does the back pack attach to the carrier?

    Click here to see full instructions for the use of the ERGO baby back pack.

     I am medium sized with a large bust. The chest straps seem very tight in the front or back carry position. What can I do?

    First, make sure the shoulder straps and chest strap are loose enough for your’s and your baby’s comfort, but not so loose as to compromise the integrity of the carrier. Then try wearing the chest strap higher on your chest. If neither of these solutions work, it is possible to wear the chest strap under your bust line. Be aware that the shoulder straps can slide off of your shoulders much easier in this position than they could if the chest strap were at your chest. 

     Can I wear the carrier in the water?

    It is recommended that use of the ERGObaby carrier in water be done infrequently. The carrier may fade the more it’s used in the water. We suggest hang drying afterwards out of the sun. Salt water is fine if you rinse well afterwards. In a damp climate, hang dry until it has stopped dripping and then put it in the dryer to speed up the drying process. It is also best not to completely dry the carrier in a hot dryer. We avoid using harsh chemicals to bond the dyes into the cotton so natural fading after washing sometimes happens. 

     How long will the extended sleeping hood last?

    When a child reaches 24″ (61cm) in length, measured from the tailbone to the head, the hood will be extended to its fullest.

     What makes a baby carrier different than a baby sling?

    A baby sling is a pouch that the baby hangs in to one side of the adult. The sling hangs off one shoulder and tends to throw the parent’s body out of alignment. A baby carrier evenly distributes the baby’s weight on the parent’s body. When using baby slings, one hand is often needed to support the baby, but baby carriers leave both hands free. Also, a baby sling can only be used for smaller babies, whereas a baby carrier can be used through toddlerhood.

      I’ve just purchased an ERGObaby carrier, and need your advice about making it work better for my daughter. She finds that the black straps dig into her thighs and cause her discomfort.

    She may be sitting in too much of a pouch. The back of the carrier should be up as high as her shoulders or just under her armpits. Pulling up on the back of the carrier and tightening the shoulder straps will give more length in the body and bring the webbing straps higher up. 

     Have you experienced anyone wearing the ERGObaby carrier throughout pregnancy?

    Yes, many women have safely used the ERGObaby carrier throughout their pregnancy. However, this is very much an individual preference and we recommend you consult your health care practitioner if you choose to continue to carry your toddler beyond your fifth month of pregnancy.

     What age is best to move my baby to the back carry position?

    This is an individual developmental process for our babies. Usually around 6 months, a child will be happy moving to your back, however it is not unheard of that a 3-½ month old baby can be very happy on the back as well. If a child is fussing in the back carry position for the first time, bringing them to a mirror, where they find comfort in seeing themselves, will settle them. Also, bouncing and movement will help.

     I have a framed backpack carrier and wonder how your carrier compares with it.

    The main differences between a framed carrier and the ERGObaby carrier have to do with weight distribution, comfort and ease. The ERGObaby carrier’s ergonomic design supports a correct sitting position for the baby’s hip, pelvis and spine growth. It disperses most of the baby’s weight between the hips and thighs and helps prevent compression of the spine. This is a healthier and more comfortable seated position for your baby as opposed to being hung by the crotch. The ERGObaby carrier also alleviates physical stress for the parent by balancing the baby’s weight to parents’ hips and shoulders. Again, this is a healthier and more comfortable carrying position. An adults center of gravity is unchanged with the use of the ERGObaby carrier; in framed backpack carriers, the adults center of gravity is raised to mid to upper back. 

     I feel like I have to bend forward to feel like he is sitting upright…it feels like he could flip out backwards, what am I doing wrong?

    The shoulder straps may be too loose. If you are in an upright ‘normal’ stance, i.e. not leaning forward or backward to balance the added weight of your child on your body, then you have the carrier correctly positioned. If not, tighten the shoulder straps so that your baby is being held closer to your body. With their legs down around your waist and their body strapped close to yours, your child is secure in the carrier. 

     Can I nurse my child in The ERGObaby carrier?

    Yes, nursing is very easy with the ERGObaby carrier. Just loosen the shoulder straps so that your baby is sitting lower. With an older baby you will have to pull your breast up to their mouth level.

      If the carrier fits me will it also fit my husband?

    The ERGObaby carrier is successful at fitting both husband and wife. The general range is between women slightly over 5’ and men up to 6’4”. The carrier adjusts at the waist, shoulder straps and chest strap, which allows for many size options. The waist belt can either be worn around the true waist or a little lower around the hips. This is mainly a personal preference but the general rule of thumb is shorter people do best wearing it around their hips and taller people around their waist. The ERGObaby waist extension extends the circumference of the waist belt of the carrier by 8 inches from 43 inches to 51 inches. We do not recommend using more than one waist extension.

     What is the weight limit of The ERGO baby carrier?

    ERGObaby recommends a weight limit of 40 pounds for its carrier; however, the carrier has been tested up to 90 pounds. Our carrier will accommodate you as long as you would like to carry and/or your baby would like to be carried.

     I have a 3-month old, 15 lb. son. He has excellent head control for his age, but not so well when he’s tired. Do I need the infant insert?

    Because your son is right on the cusp of needing the infant insert, it is probably not worth buying for only a month’s use. Try putting your son in the carrier and let him tell you whether it works for him or not. There are several ways of placing him in the carrier on the front without the infant insert. One way to carry him would be with both legs off to one side and his bottom still located in the center of the carrier. The other way, having one leg/foot tucked up in the carrier cross legged style and the other leg dangling down on the other side. Continue to try it every once in a while until he seems content sitting in the carrier.

     Why do I need the infant insert and how long do I need to use it?

    The infant insert was designed for use with newborns to age 4 – 6 months. It supports your baby’s head and neck, as well as spine and hips during those first crucial months of development. Once your baby can hold her/his head up for long periods of time and is comfortable with her/his hips in a splayed position the use of the infant insert is no longer necessary. * The Infant Insert can be worn with your baby in the sling like position, with both legs to one side, or in the spread squat position facing you. * Note: These two developmental occurrences do not always happen at the same time, but do take place between 4 and 6 months. Since babies grow and develop at different rates, monitor your newborn’s development to decide when she/he is ready for the transition.

     Can the ERGObaby be used with twins?

    ERGO baby carrier twinsWe have had many parents of two or more children or twins send pictures of themselves wearing both of the babies in ERGObaby carriers, one on the front and one on the back. It is not recommended to use the infant insert in the back or hip carry position.

     

     Can I face my baby out when I wear her on the front?

    The ERGObaby carrier is designed in compliance with the recommendations of Dr. Evelin Kirkilionis, and SHOULD NEVER BE WORN WITH THE BABY FACING OUT.According to Kirkilionis:”Infants in outward-facing orientations can’t turn away from surrounding stimuli. They can’t turn inward toward a parent’s body if stimuli become overwhelming. In this position the baby cannot make eye contact with his or her parent to evaluate facial expressions, social cues, and so forth to make assessment of the situation. Only choose a baby carrier that allows your child to face you … never out. There are too many events going on around your baby. A baby has no way to exclude himself from the environment by turning his head away and towards you. Healthy sleep is difficult for a baby who is facing outward. I am not a supporter of the outward facing method of carrying a child.”From – A Baby Wants To Be Carried by Dr. Eveline Kirkilionis (available in German) Dr. Kirkilionis is a human development specialist who has researched babywearing since 1985.

     

     Do I need to have someone help me get my child into the carrier?

    You can get your baby in the carrier by yourself without the help of anyone or anything. However, we recommend you practice several times with the help of someone until you feel comfortable with the process. Older babies also become familiar and will help by lifting their leg and hanging on to your back. In the back carry position it also helps to practice in front of a mirror so both you and your baby can make visual connection with what you are doing.  If you are still having difficulty, please contact us for further assistance.

     

     

     

     

     

     

      

     

    Popularity: 36% [?]

    Determining Hotslings Sizing

    Friday, June 27th, 2008

    When trying to determine the correct sizing for Hotslings, check out our sizing chart show below.  Use your height, weight, and bra size to come up with the best fit.  Then use your shoulder to hip measurement and your t-shirt size to confirm your sizing.

    When taking your shoulder to hip measurement, use a soft tape measure and start at the outer corner of your shoulder.  Measure diagonally across your body to the opposite hip bone.  The number (in inches) should be in the twenties. 

    Hotslings Sizing Chart

    As you can see the measurements for a size are quite variable.  You might find yourself having a hard time choosing between two sizes.  Some people can wear more than one size, and the best fit is partially what you prefer.  Ask yourself if you like wearing tight or loose fitting clothes, are you anticipating a large baby, and how is your body going to adjust post pregnancy?  

    If you still cannot decide you can contact us for assistance or order two sizes to see which you like best.  If you are unsure of sizing, we recommend ordering both sizes with your original order so that you can save $5 on the return shipping fee.

    Popularity: 83% [?]

    EllaRoo FAQ

    Friday, June 20th, 2008

    What size carrier should I order?

    The Mei Tai and Mei Hip come in one size and fit up to a 48″ waist size.

    The Ring Sling comes in three sizes (S, M, L). Most people will use a Medium sling. Very petite people, e.g. 5′2″ and 100 lbs, may use a Small. Larger moms and dads, e.g. size 20, will use a Large.

    The Ring Slings are all the same width (about 27″), but they vary in length by about 6″. 

    The EllaRoo Wrap comes in six sizes, with sizing as follows:

    • 2.7 m Rebozo-length (Good for hip/cradle carry, hot weather, and quick trips!)
    • 3.6 m Extra-Small (Good for short wraps: cross, rucksack, hip cross, etc.)
    • 4.2 m Small up to 130lbs and 5′4″ 
    • 4.6 m Medium up to 160lbs and 5′8″
    • 5.0 m Large up to 190lbs and 6′
    • 5.4 m Extra-Large over 190lbs and 6

    What kind of fabrics are used, and how are they grown and processed? 

    As of 2007, all new colorways of the Mei Tai, Mei Hip, and Ring Sling are made of 100% organic cotton, with recycled polyester batting. The Wrap is hand woven in Guatemala of conventionally-grown cotton and the dyes used are free of toxins and heavy metals.

    How can I keep my Ellaroo baby carrier in excellent condition? 

    We suggest washing all Ellaroo baby carriers in cold water by hand or in the gentle cycle of the washing machine and hanging them dry. When tying your Wrap baby carrier, avoid yanking on the fringe. Like any handwoven fabric, the Wraps are vulnerable at the fringes. If one part of the fringe is pulled hard away from another part, it may tear.

    Popularity: 22% [?]

    New ERGO Baby Carrier D-Rings

    Sunday, June 8th, 2008

    I have been receiving many inquires about missing d-rings.  Rest assured, your ERGO Baby Carrier is not defective!!

    Unfortunately, the ERGO Baby Carrier was  updated without updating the instructions.  This has been really frustrating for many of you, who attempt to watch the dvd and follow the instructions step by step.  Frustrating for us too because we always strongly recommend that you watch or read the manufacturers instructions. There has not been word as to when the instructions will be updated, but here is what you need to know.

    The d-rings have been replaced with snaps that are used to secure the sleeping hood.  There is one remaining d-ring that can be used to clip on pacifiers or  toys.

    You should also know that the new and improved generation ERGO Baby Carrier has the chest straps permanently attached to the shoulder straps.  This makes it easier to use since the straps will not need readjusting each time the carrier is taken on and off.

    As always contact us at info@lastellablu.com if you have any concerns.

    Popularity: 20% [?]

    La Stella Blu FAQ

    Friday, June 6th, 2008

    Do you accept returns?

    At La Stella Blu we stand by all of our baby slings, and we gladly accept returns on all of our products.  We understand that many mothers buy a baby sling well in advance of birth, so we do not set a timeline for return.  We prefer all items in new condition with all original packaging.

    Is there a restocking fee on returns?

    We do not charge a restocking fee on new products.  For all items from our outlet, we do charge a $5 restocking fee to recoup some of our shipping costs.

    How long will my baby sling take to arrive with FREE shipping?

    We strive to ship all orders within one day of being placed.  The shipment method depends upon the weight of your package.  We use a combination of USPS Priority Mail which is 2-3 day delivery and FedEx Home Delivery which is up to 5 business days depending upon your location.  If you have special needs for shipping contact us and we may be able to accomodate.

    Do I have to provide my email and phone number with my order?

     

    All requested information is only used to contact you in case of a problem with your order or a problem with shipment.  Please monitor your email for updates on the status of your order.  We will not share your name or personal information with anyone.

    Is your site secure?

    Yes, our site is secured with Authorize.net.

    I want to add an item to my order.  Can I just send an email with authorization to charge my credit card?

    For security reasons, we do not store any of your financial information.  So additional orders will have to be placed on line or taken over the phone.  To request that we contact you by phone, send an email to info@lastellablu.com

    Popularity: 8% [?]