Before I tell you about the Original Moby Wrap, I must admit that I was not excited about trying another baby carrier.

I had received 2 baby carriers as gifts when I had my first daughter and I didn’t like either of them.  The Infantino SlingRider was like an elastic banana.  The sound from the hook and loop safety strap startled my daughter every time I tried to put her in or take her out.  But more disturbing was the way it closed up and completely covered her when she was in it.  I was very concerned about her ability to breathe, and it bothered me that I couldn’t see her when I looked down.  I tried this twice and gave up.

The other one was the Infantino Euro Rider which was difficult to use from the beginning.  You had to put it on like a shirt, then lift the baby over your head and slide her in the pouch.  First of all, not easy to do with a newborn that cannot support their head yet.  Secondly, I could not  move the baby once she fell asleep.

So needless to say, I was already frustrated with the idea of baby carriers.  But, then it became a necessity with the birth of my second daughter.  With the girls only 13 months apart, I now have an active toddler and a newborn who wanted to be held.  My need peaked when my husband had to go out of town for work, and I was home alone with my girls for 4 whole days.

I saw the Original Moby Wrap on a mom at the doctor’s office when I went in for my check up.  She raved about it, and told me where she got it.  I promptly went to the store where they showed me how to use it.  (I must admit this wrap is a little intimidating at first.  It’s basically a VERY long piece of cotton fabric.  But, it is the most versatile baby carrier I have ever seen!)

Through a series of wraps, you create a customized carrier for you and your child.  They demonstrated several different variations with a doll they had.  But, I still wasn’t convinced it would work with my baby.  So I went home, got my daughter and went back to the store! (Yes, I was so impressed, I made a second trip!)  Once I had the wrap on, they showed me how to put my daughter in the wrap.  She was crying and squirming around, so it was a little difficult.  But, once she was in, she immediately calmed down and fell asleep!!

Having this wrap allows me so much freedom, I am sorry I didn’t have this with my first daughter!  I can now carry my newborn all around the house, play with my toddler, talk on the phone, work on the computer and even start dinner!  My hands are totally free!  I can actually visualize myself running small errands with both girls!

It is a little tricky to get the initial wrapping technique down.  For me, the most difficult part is keeping it taut to ensure a snug fit.  But, it just takes a few days to become a pro!  The wrap comes with a booklet that shows all the steps in full detail and color photos.  Plus, you can visit the website www.babyslingdemonstrations.com to see a video of the wrapping techniques.  I have this bookmarked as a favorite!

Here’s a list of reasons why I love this wrap:

1. My daughter loves it!
2. It’s made of soft, luxurious cotton
3. It can be used for preemies, up to 35 lbs.
4. It’s comfy and gives great back support
5. One size fits most (even the Dads can use it!)

Now, I must specify that I initially purchased the Original Moby Wrap in black, which retails for $39.95 with authorized dealers and the website http://www.mobywrap.com.  I chose black so that it would go with any outfit and would be good year round.  In hindsight though, I should have chosen a lighter fabric.  It would be cooler and easier to conceal stains and lint.

I have subsequently purchased the Moby D Wrap which retails for $69.95.  It is more expensive because it has a decorative panel in the middle, and it is made to be tied on your side.  Since one side is longer than the other, there is really only one way to tie it and the knot will always be on the right side.  Also, it doesn’t seem to fit as generously as the Original Moby Wrap which I miss.  In my opinion, the decorative panel and design is not worth the additional $30.  I would have preferred to purchase 2 Original Moby Wraps in different colors for that price!

I hope that this review is helpful to anyone who is looking for a wrap to purchase for themselves or as a gift.  I highly recommend the Original Moby Wrap to every mom I meet!

One last note about the Moby Wrap…

Even though it can be used for children up to 35 lbs. you should use your comfort as a guide.  If it’s not comfortable to wear because of the weight of your child, then try a different wrap technique to redistribute the weight.  I tried to put my 15 month old daughter in the wrap and was not successful.  She only weighs 22 lbs. but since she is mobile, she doesn’t want to be carried around that much.  I also think that since she was never carried in the wrap, she’s not used to it and doesn’t like it.  If you are purchasing this for an older child, I would consider their mobility as a factor.