Baby Wrap Size Guide

Anyone can use a wrap of any size – different lengths can be used for different types of carry, with shorter wraps usually used for single layer carries and longer wraps used for multiple layer carries. Wrap sizes aren’t like clothing sizes where if you get the wrong size it renders the item useless. You can’t really go wrong with babywearing – you will always be able to find a perfect way to use a wrap of any size.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by all the sizing information and unsure of which one to go for (we’ve been there – we were all beginners once!), it may be helpful for you to know that most babywearers find size 6 to be a perfect starting point. A size 6 will allow you to get used to wrapping and to try out many different carry types to find out what you like best.  

Find your Base Size

Many babywearers find it useful to calculate their base size – the shortest size of wrap that allows you to comfortably do the most popular beginner carry – Front Wrap Cross Carry, which is a great, supportive go-to for carrying from newborn all the way to toddlerhood that will teach you many of the techniques needed for more complicated carry types. If you’re not sure what the FWCC is, we have an instructional guide video you can watch! We’ve put together an approximate sizing chart below.

 

WRAP SIZE WRAP LENGTH BODY SIZE  T-SHIRT SIZE
4 370cm Very petite XXS/XS
5 420cm Petite XS/S
6 470cm Medium S/M
7 520cm Larger or taller L+

 If you’re between sizes or carrying a toddler you may want to consider the next size up to your base size.

 Why knowing your base size can be useful

Knowing your base size can help you to figure out what size wrap might be best for you depending on your personal circumstances and preferences. If you’re new to wearing a woven wrap, you may find your base size the easiest to start with. Same goes for if you’d prefer to use some of the more simple types of wrap carry. Or you may prefer to go for a longer wrap to allow for more experimentation.

Generally speaking, the longer your wrap, the more carrying options you will have – you’ll be able to try practically any type of carry, but your wrap will  likely have a longer tail of fabric after you tie it. And if you buy a shorter wrap, also known as a ‘shortie’, you’ll still be able to do lots of different types of carry but may not be able to do the FWCC.

When it comes to researching and trying out new types of carry, you’ll find that most guides use the term ‘base minus’. This indicates the smallest size possible to do the carry. For instance, a Kangaroo Carry is base minus 2. If your base size is 6, your base minus 2 is a size 4: you’d be able to the Kangaroo Carry with a size 4, but not a size 3. If your base size is 7, your base minus 2 would be a size 5: you wouldn’t be able to do this carry with a size 3 or 4. You can, of course, use a longer wrap for any of these carries – it’ll be just as secure, and we personally love the look of the longer tail because it shows off the design more!

At the end of the day, all sizes of wrap offer a multitude of carry types and plenty of opportunities to experiment with your wrapping style. Whatever size you choose, both you and baby will reap the benefits of babywearing.

We’re happy to offer personalised advice if you need any help, or you may want to join the Sling Studio Squad on Facebook and post questions there to hear from our passionate, knowledgeable and kind community.

 

ASK US FOR HELP!