A Maya Wrap is a brand of ring sling that is used for baby carrying. It comes in vibrant colors and is made of a light-weight, hand-loomed, 100% cotton fabric. Maya Wraps are a popular method of baby wearing that are loved by some and disliked by others. Here are the pros and cons of Maya Wraps.
The Benefits of a Maya Wrap
The Maya Wrap is Versatile
There are several different positions that a mother or father can use to wear the baby in a Maya Wrap. The cradle hold, newborn vertical hold, kangaroo carry, hip carry and back carry are the most popular.
Maya Wraps even go beyond baby wearing and prove useful in many other ways. Some mothers use a Maya Wrap as a makeshift support in grocery shopping carts when the installed belt is either not there or does not provide enough support. Others find that the Maya Wrap makes a convenient changing table when they are out of the house and in need of a quick spot to change the baby. Most will end up using the Maya Wrap as a blanket or shawl at some point.
The Maya Wrap is Washable
The Maya Wrap is easy to wash, unlike some other, more expensive baby carriers. Simply throw it in the washing machine and hang to dry.
The Maya Wrap is Comfortable
When worn correctly, the Maya Wrap is an extremely comfortable method of baby carrying. It does not dig into the shoulders or back, it is soft and does not make either the mother or the baby too hot.
Difficulties of the Maya Wrap
Learning How to Wear a Maya Wrap Takes Practice
The Maya Wrap has a steep learning curve for some. It takes practice to get the carrying positions correct, both for the baby’s safety and for the mother’s comfort. It’s helpful to watch a video that demonstrates the different holds and to practice with a doll or stuffed animal before attempting to carry the baby.
Even well-practiced Maya Wrap users can occasionally get the wrap positioned incorrectly. If this happens, they may find that the Maya Wrap is uncomfortable after an hour or so of baby wearing.
Wearing the Baby on the Same Side Causes Back Strain
Mothers tend to wear their Maya Wrap on the same side. For most, this is opposite their dominate hand, which remains free for other tasks. However, repeated baby wearing on the same side can cause back strain. It’s important to remember to wear the baby on the opposite side at least once a day.
While the Maya Wrap is an extremely versatile baby carrier, it does take practice for most mothers and fathers to use. Once a parent is a skilled Maya Wrap user, the fact that it is washable and comfortable helps make it a good, all-purpose baby carrier.
Source:
Maya Wrap Website
Six Uses for a Maya Wrap
