How does the CuddlyWrap support the baby’s spine?
The adult spine has four curves - neck (cervical spine), mid-back (thoracic), low back (lumbar) and base of the spine (sacrum). A newborn has only two curves in his spine: the mid-back and the base of the spine. The curve in the neck develops as the baby begins to lift his head and the neck muscles increase in strength. The curve in the lower back develops as the baby begins to crawl. Since the baby’s spine and hips are developing in the first year, it is important to protect the spine and hips from undue pressure or strain. Many of the conventional baby carriers in which the baby is positioned with the legs hanging down, place too much stress on the base of the spine – the position causes weight bearing before the baby’s spine is physically ready. The premature/newborn hold ensures that the baby’s neck, spine and hips are fully supported. Once the baby is ready for the classic cuddle hold (2-4 months), the CuddlyWrap™ holds the baby in closely against the adult body, supporting the whole length of the spine. The legs are supported in a position that contributes to their continuing hip development.
Does it take long to learn to use the CuddlyWrap?
Each CuddlyWrap includes a DVD and a printed instruction manual. Tying the CuddlyWrap becomes second nature very quickly. It also helps to use a mirror when you are first positioning your baby in the CuddlyWrap to ensure that the baby is positioned well and completely supported. Once you have tied and worn the CuddlyWrap with your baby a few times, you will know by your comfort if the wrap tie needs adjusting. For example, if you find your lower back feeling tired, you may need to tie the CuddlyWrap more snugly so that the baby is carried a little higher.
Why is the CuddlyWrap so long?
The CuddlyWrap has been designed so that it is possible for adults of all sizes to use it with comfort in all the various positions. It does not need any extra adjustments between adult users – each adult can tie the wrap to fit for them. The ends of the CuddlyWrap are tapered so that there is less bulk around the waist for smaller adults who may need to bring the ends around their waist a couple of times. The length of the wrap also makes it possible for most adults to use over heavier outerwear in colder weather.
Does it matter how big the baby is? What are the age or weight restrictions?
There are no age or weight restrictions. The CuddlyWrap is completely ergonomic for both adult and baby or toddler, and there are no straps to adjust or sizing for adult or baby. The CuddlyWrap can be used as long as you and your baby/child are comfortable. The way the CuddlyWrap is tied evenly distributes the weight of your growing baby over your entire upper body without any stress points. Many have found that it is much easier to carry a heavy baby/toddler in the CuddlyWrap than to carry in arms only. We have experience carrying baby/toddlers over 30 lbs. and up to 3 years.
Can I carry my twins in the CuddlyWrap?
It depends on the age and weights of the twins. Newborn twins are used to being in very close contact and overlapping arms and legs. The premature/newborn hold can be used to hold small/newborn twins. In the horizontal position, one twin would be supported in each pocket with their legs overlapping and the centre section with the logo pulled up over both babies to their shoulders. If you prefer the upright newborn hold, each twin would be supported in a pocket with the centre section pulled up over both babies.
Can I use the CuddlyWrap to carry my babies on my hip?
The CuddlyWrap is intended for carrying your baby centred, on either your front or your back, based on the anatomy and ergonomics of the adult body. Carrying your baby on your hip requires one side of your body to be the primary support for the weight of your baby. The hip carry position creates stress and strain in your back, neck and shoulder muscles. Older babies are interested in the activity around them. One of the best features of the CuddlyWrap is that it enables you to carry your baby facing out and still have the advantages of hands-free carrying without stress on your back. Babies can see and interact with the world while being carried close in a way that also protects the health and well-being of your back.
Will the Cuddlywrap be hot in the summer?
The CuddlyWrap is made of 100% cotton. Pure cotton fabric ‘breathes’ - air flows between the fibres and does not trap body heat. Darker colours in any fabric will feel warmer because of increased heat absorption in direct sunlight, compared to lighter colours that reflect sunrays.
How can I use the CuddlyWrap in the winter?
There are two ways to use the CuddlyWrap when outdoors in cool or cold weather. Depending on the size of your baby and how roomy your jacket or coat is, you may be able to carry your baby under your coat. A hat and booties are usually all that is needed in extra clothing for the baby when worn under your coat. If the baby is facing out, you may also want to add a scarf.
The CuddlyWrap can also be worn over your jacket or coat with the baby or toddler in their snowsuit, in either the face-in or face out position.
The Cuddlywrap is ergonomic - tips
One of the most common reasons for back fatigue, particularly in the lower back, is that the CuddlyWrap is tied too loosely and the baby or toddler is being carried too low. This puts stress on the lower back. In general, a snug fit when first tying the wrap, and before placing the baby in the CuddlyWrap, will ensure that baby is carried high enough to reduce stress on the lower back.
The CuddlyWrap is designed to move with you and your baby, to be secure yet not restrictive. If you are carrying a heavier baby or toddler for an extended period of time, their weight may stretch the fabric so that you no longer have a snug fit. This will result in the baby/toddler being carried lower and increasing lower back fatigue. It’s worth taking the time to take the baby/toddler out and retie the CuddlyWrap.
If the fabric is not fanned out across your back, if it is twisted or bunched, it will cause pressure on the back muscle beneath it. The heavier the baby, the more back discomfort or fatigue you will feel as a result. It’s worth the comfort to take a moment to ensure the fabric is properly fanned across your back and shoulders.
It’s important too, to be aware of your body mechanics as you move through your day with the baby in the CuddlyWrap. Though it is possible to bend over with the baby in the CuddlyWrap, this is not good for your back – use your legs and bend your knees. Also watch how you are reaching – turn your body and reach straight up or out rather than twisting and reaching.
Can my baby breastfeed in the CuddlyWrap?
The simple answer is 'Yes, absolutely!" However, new moms and new babies deserve and need much more than simple answers.
One important point to keep in mind is that babies need time, often about 4 - 6 weeks, to become adept at nursing easily and effectively. In the early weeks, there may be times the baby nurses well in theCuddlyWrap™ and times when it just isn't working at all.
Other factors affecting how well, or if, mom and baby can breastfeed in the CuddlyWrap are:
- The size of the mother's breasts - in general, large breasted women may find it more difficult to breastfeed in a wrap or sling, particularly with a young baby.
- The preferred position for nursing - for example, a newborn needs help and good head support for effective latch on and breastfeeding. Some mothers find the football or cross-cradle hold works best for the first few weeks. These positions don't work as easily in a wrap or sling. However, once baby has become an expert at nursing, the best position to facilitate nursing in the is the Premature/Newborn hold - Cradle Position.
One of the advantages of the CuddlyWrap is that it does not need to be taken off in order to breastfeed even if the baby needs to be taken out of the wrap to nurse. The fabric can just be moved aside while nursing and once the baby is finished, the baby can go right back into the CuddlyWrap™.
Some mothers have also found that they can slip the fabric off the shoulder and arm on the side the baby will be nursing on, leaving the baby's lower body in the CuddlyWrap to be supported in the other side of the wrap.
Every mother/baby couple is unique and it will take experimenting to discover what works best for you and your baby. And experimenting over time. What hasn't worked easily at one stage of baby's development may work very well at another stage.
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