Baby carriers are one of the important necessities that parents must have when they have a baby. Because this sling has a very important role or function, parents must have it. Even before the little one is born, parents must also have prepared this object. Here is some information from the kind wash on baby carriers.

Now we can see a lot of people who also use this one object to carry their children, who are still babies. With this object, they look very easy when carrying babies and do not need to bother holding them all the time with their hands, which is certainly quite tiring.

 

History of Baby Carrier

Carriers for very young children have a long history and have been around for centuries. The history starts from the phylogenetic background where, in the past, humans still often lived in groups or families.

At that time, humans still lived by moving around in search of food and finding a safe place to rest. At that time, the parents or one of the family members will hold their children and bring them closer to the body.

From this habit, the tradition of carrying a baby began to emerge. As time goes by, the habit will certainly spread throughout the world, and many people will practice it. In fact, this habit has continued for centuries until modern times like today.

History of Child Carriers in the 1960s

The invention of the baby carrier began with a woman in the Peace Corps, Ann Moore, who worked as a pediatric nurse in Togo, Africa. In the 1960s, she saw many women there carrying their children in slings so that it became easier and more comfortable.

When she returned to the United States, she and her mother, Lucy Aukerman, eventually designed a cloth pouch that resembled the slings used by women in Africa. But their cloth sling was sturdier and had adjustable shoulder and waist support and patented it in 1969.

Its History In 1978

In 1978, a professional nanny, Toritsu Onuwaje from Nigeria, moved to the United States. There he felt disappointed with the number of crying babies there than in Nigeria. Eventually he made the baby wrap, a baby carrier from the Itsekiri tribe, which is his tribe of origin.

The women in his tribe often work all day without leaving their young children. This is because they carry them with a device that he also made in the United States. With this carrier, small children rarely cry because they feel comfortable being close to their mother.

 

The Rise of the Molded Plastic Carrier

Over time, rigid molded plastic slings emerged, which were related to the invention of child safety seats in cars. Child safety seats in automobiles were patented in the 1970s. Then in 1982-2985 a number of plastic carriers were also patented with various configurations.

An example of the shape of this baby carrier is that it is contoured to support the back, and the child seat is equipped with an adjustable and lockable handle. These carriers also use various types of fabric to cushion the child to make them feel more comfortable.

Some plastic carriers use gauze on the frame to support the child. Then there are those who use layered fabric inserts to tie them to the sling firmly. However, users can still remove the cloth to make it easier to clean.

But merely cleaning it up by yourself is not sufficient. When you wash it yourself, there are so many partitions that are not reachable. These are definitely going to be a hotbed of bacterial activity and a germ-breeding ground. So, the fact that cleaning these baby carriers has to be done by a professional cleaning services specializing in baby equipment like a baby carrier.

the kind wash solves such issues. the kind wash is no stranger to cleaning baby carriers. And the type ensures that your baby carrier is free from germs and bacteria so there is no hindrance in the movement space of your baby, with well-established experience and technology.

 

Development of Baby Carriers

The development of baby carriers for young children has certainly taken place in various countries around the world. Each country has its own traditional objects or traditional carriers that have been used since ancient times. The following are examples from various countries:

Japan

Japan has a baby carrier called an onbuhimo. Onbuhimo is from two words, namely onbu and himo. Onbu means to carry on the back or to carry a himo, which means a flat rope or thread with a width of 7 to 8 cm. This traditional Japanese sling is a piece of cloth with a string wrapped around it.

Onbuhimo is traditionally used to hold a child on his back and let them see from behind the shoulder of the person carrying him. This item is very helpful for parents who have to do various jobs but still take care of small children at the same time.

In the 1960s, this baby carrier manufacturer made optimizations. At that time, many people still did not know the correct way to use the onbuhimo. Therefore, the manufacturer put a knot on the onbuhimo so that people could easily tie it when using it.

Some mothers later also found fault with the crossed onbuhimo rope, so the manufacturer re-optimized the object. Manufacturers made the onbuhimo look like a backpack, and gradually the traditional onbuhimo became less and less used.

Africa (Tanzania and Kenya)

From Africa comes the kanga, a rectangular cotton cloth that is 1.50m long and 1m wide. This cloth is used in Africa, especially in the regions of Kenya and Tanzania. People used to use it to carry their small children and also used it as clothing.

With a baby carrier, parents can carry the child in front of the stomach. How to use it is by placing this cloth on the child’s back and then tightening it at the top and bottom. The remaining strands of fabric are then twisted together to tie it to the front of the stomach.

China

China has a traditional child carrier,mei tai (meh dai or bei dai). Mei tai is said to be the origin of all baby carriers, which were originally made of rectangular cloth with four straps on each side. The straps on the top were for shoulder straps, while the bottom was for a belt.

The modern mei tai also developed in various countries such as America and Europe but with different designs. The American mei tai has a rectangular shape but is also often rounded and even beveled to the top edge. While European designs are usually more curved and also rounded.

Most of these baby carriers also have additional head or neck rests for protection. Each person can also customize the shape of this item, such as the height of the back panel or the width of the straps. Mei herself can carry a child on the back, front, or hips.

Greenland

The traditional sash from Greenland is amanti. Amanti is a robe made from sealskin to carry children. The way to use it is to wrap the child in a cloth, then parents will put it in the amniotic hood.

Peru

In Peru there is a traditional sling called Manta, which was originally used as a coat to cover the shoulders and back. But then people began to use this object to carry children and also carry various types of goods easily.

Usually women will carry their children using this baby carrier on their backs. That way they can do various activities such as working, cooking, eating, and other activities while carrying children without feeling hassle or fatigue.

Mexico

Furthermore, in Mexico there is a rebozo, a traditional Mesoamerican shawl that has a length of up to 3 meters. This shawl has a variety of patterns, colors, and weaving techniques according to the local area. The natives of Mexico themselves use rebozo for various purposes.

People often use it to carry goods and babies in cloth to help pregnant women give birth with special techniques. If they don’t use it to carry children or things, then people also often use it as a scarf.

Korea

Furthermore, in Korea there is a traditional baby carrier, namely a podaegi, to carry a child on the back. This item comes from a long piece of fabric that is tied using two ropes at the top corner. People can wrap the rope around their shoulders and also under their chests.

This sling has pockets so that the child will always sit in an ergonomic squatting position. Parents who use it can also adjust the height of the back of the carrier according to comfort. It can also carry the child in front and back.

Vietnam/Thailand

Furthermore, in Vietnam or Thailand there is a traditional sling called hmong. Basically, this baby carrier is the same as the podaegi from Korea. But both also have a slight difference, namely on the back, where the hmong is narrower while the podaegi is wider.

Indonesia

In Indonesia there is a traditional sling called a selendang for carrying children on the hip. Selendang from fabric is a very simple rectangular shape.

Germany

In Germany, people use baby carriers called hockmantels that look like capes. How to use it by wearing it on children sitting on their hips and also the person carrying it. This hockmantel is also a traditional garment that originated in Thuringia.

Great Britain, Wales

In England and Wales there is a traditional garment in the form of a Welsh blanket. The Welsh blanket is a traditional baby wrapping cloth originating from Wales in the form of a thick cloth similar to a blanket and has a waffle structure.

Turkey

The traditional Turkish sash, dirmac, uses a simple wide piece of cloth. People can tie it around the waist using a wide strap to carry the child while working or doing other activities. Its regional use is limited to Anatolia in Turkey.

 

Various Ways to Make Baby Carriers

How to make a baby carrier for children varies depending on the type or design. Examples are cloth carriers, molded plastic carriers, and also backpack-type carriers. Here we will discuss how to make them:

Cloth Carriers

The first way is to make a preliminary design, then make a prototype, and then adjust it to the baby and also the parents. After the final design is correct and precise, then the next thing is to print the pattern and stick it on the fabric. Then cut the fabric according to the pattern.

The next baby carrier process is sewing the fabric except for the part to add the cushion. After the sewing process, the next step is to add padding in the form of foam or polyester fiber and then close the remaining holes using stitches.

The final stage is to assemble the sling, such as putting the straps together, painting, and labeling with stitching. After that there is a final inspection process to check all seams and fasteners. After the inspection process, it means that this product is finished and good.

Molded Plastic Carriers

The first process for making this type of drum is to mold the plastic shell according to the design. After the molding process, the shell will be removed and then move on to the cooling process. After that, there is a process of trimming excess plastic and a cleaning process.

The next baby carrier process is the assembly of the plastic shell by installing various other parts of the drum. For example, installing bearings, supports, straps, seat belts, and labels. Once finished, the manufacturer can immediately do the packaging and send the product to consumers.

Backpack-Type Carriers

The first way to make a backpack-type carrier is to cut, sew, and pad the fabric part of this carrier. After that, prepare an aluminum frame that has a shape, size, and curve that matches the shape of this type of carrier.

The next step is that the manufacturer will attach the fabric sling to the frame with various installation methods. The installation is, of course, with special techniques so that it does not come off and feels comfortable when using it. After the baby carrier process is complete, the manufacturer must first inspect the product before marketing it.

 

DIY Baby Carrier

Wrap carriers are now available in the market, and we can get them easily. Even now there are lots of wrap carriers with various models and materials that we can adjust to our needs. So that we can get a product that is really right and according to our needs.

Although there are already many choices of products, from various choices of products, it may not feel suitable for some people. For example, because the model feels less comfortable, you are uncomfortable while using it to carry their little one all day.

Then it could be that the baby carrier does feel uncomfortable for the child, either because of the model or the material. Some models and materials of carriers can indeed provide discomfort, such as improper positioning that can cause a feeling of heat so that the child becomes cranky.

If experiencing these problems, parents do not need to worry too much about finding the most appropriate and comfortable products for themselves and for their children. Because parents can also try to make their own slings at home, they can create their own slings that are the most appropriate and comfortable.

For those who want to make their own wrappers at home, here is the process of making a baby carrier:

Prepare Ingredients

The first step is to prepare the materials, starting from the fabric (slings are generally between 5 yards and 6 yards long and 20-30 inches wide), threads with colors that match or contrast with the color of the fabric, pins or hem clips, ironing boards, irons, rulers, and other fabric gauges, and also scissors.

In choosing fabrics, there are several factors that we must pay attention to, starting from breathability, strength, and water absorption. The choice of fabrics themselves is indeed very diverse, such as cotton fabrics and poly-blended fabrics, which have their own disadvantages and advantages.

Cotton for baby carriers is very breathable but can hold water for a long time. While polyblends can hold water well, their breathability is not good, so it can cause overheating. If you want the best of the two, you can choose linen and lyocell that are easy to breathe and absorb water.

In addition to paying attention to the type of fabric, you must also pay attention to the size of the wrap. There are two ways. First, if the width of the fabric is double or more than the width of the wrapper, then you can buy half the length of the wrapper because it can cut the center to create a rectangle. For example, for a 6-yard wrap, buy 3 yards of fabric.

If the width of the fabric is less than twice the width of the wrapper, then you must buy as much fabric as the length of the wrapper. For 6-yard wraps, buy 6-yard fabrics, although later it may be necessary to trim the width a little before the sewing process.

Step 0

After preparing the various ingredients, the baby carrier process begins by making the carrier. The first step is to wash the fabric and dry it first in the usual way. This is important to ensure that the cloth is clean and free from various kinds of dirt and dust.

Next, fold the fabric several times with overlapping edges so that the fabric stays on the sides. Cut the fabric in the center until it becomes two long strips but still in the folded position.

Step 1

Baby carrier process 1 prepares the wrapping fabric by cutting it according to the size, either cutting the width of the entire part of the fabric or cutting the middle part into two rectangles.

If you have used a long sling cloth, you don’t need to apply the steps above. Find the center of the sling cloth and stick an old cloth in a contrasting color to make it easier to find the center when wrapping the baby.

Step 2

Sew the two rectangles on the short ends until they become one with the French stitching. How to sew it starts from the wrong part. Then sew again about 1/8 inch from the first stitch and tidy up the stitches.

The baby carrier process is then by turning the fabric over until the right side is integrated into the loose stitch to one side. Press to wrap the trimmed edges with the fabric. Sew the right side together 1/2 inch from the pressed edge, then sew again 1/8 inch from this stitch.

Two long pieces of cloth have been pinned with the wrong side on the short end. The stitches have been sewn at a distance of 1/2 inch and sewn again at a distance of 3/8 inch for a double stitch. The seams are already folded, so that now the fabric is on the right side and is being pressed.

Finish the French stitch by sewing a 1/2 inch and 3/8 inch stitch on the newly folded edge and in the press. The stitches are folded to one side and sewn up into place from the wrong side of the wrapper.

Step 3

Step 3 of the baby carrier process: tighten the stitches by pressing the wrong side of the fabric to one side. Sewing the top so that it stays flat and does not hit the baby’s skin.

Step 4

Next, in step 4, around the edges of the carrier, make a double fold hem. Fold and press 3/8 inch around the perimeter. Next, fold again by pressing 1/2 inch around.

At the corners, create a notched finish by folding the triangle shape at a 3/8-inch fold angle. Folding it at a straight 1/2-inch crease on both edges.

The next step, the baby carrier process, presses the long edge of the fabric using a hem gauge to double fold them. At the corner of the fabric, pull the double fold hem back until only the first fold is in place, then hold it with your fingers.

At the corners of the hem, press down on the first 3/8 fold, then fold the fabric toward the center to form a small triangle. On top of the small triangle, make a second 1/2-inch crease to create a notched corner. The last step is to sew the double seam using a sewing machine.

Step 5

The baby carrier process is complete, and you can try using it.

 

About the kind wash

the kind wash, a Singapore expert cleaning service, specializes in cleaning baby gear like baby carriers, strollers, baby car seats, etc. With a mission to address the need for hygiene in urban living.

Recognizing the importance of clean baby equipment in daily life, the kind wash offers tailored cleaning solutions that not only prolong the life of these items but also contribute to a healthier environment.

the kind wash services include shoe cleaning, premium shoe care, and baby gear cleaning, using eco-friendly products and techniques to ensure quality while minimizing environmental impact. the kind wash focus on sustainability is reflected in their use of environmentally friendly detergents and water-saving methods.

Customers choose the kind wash for their expertise, strict quality standards, and seamless convenience, including pickup and delivery services. Additionally, the company prioritizes customer satisfaction through personalized service and transparent communication.

In summary, the kind wash stands out as a trusted partner for individuals and families in Singapore, offering reliable and sustainable cleaning solutions for shoes and baby gear while contributing to a greener future.

With carriers, carrying a baby becomes easier and more comfortable. Parents can also do various activities at the same time while bringing their children. Therefore, for those who have babies, don’t forget to buy a baby carrier and keep your baby carrier clean with the kind wash.

 

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FAQ

 

How are baby carriers created or manufactured? 

In the case of cloth carriers, there is some designing, pattern-cutting, sewing, padding, assembly, and so forth. Plastic molded carriers go through the process of plastic molding, cooling, trimming, and component assembly. They are a mix between fabric work and aluminum frame construction, which type of carrier making them backpack-type carriers.

How far back do baby carriers go?

Ann Moore invented the modern baby carrier way back in the 1960s, inspired by the way African mothers carry their babies, and the innovative nature of babywearing still stands today, with Toritsu Onuwaje inventing his design in 1978, and molded plastic carriers hitting the market.

What varieties of baby carriers are used worldwide?

• • Japan: Onbuhimo
  • Africa: Kanga
  • China: Mei tai
  • Korea: Podaegi
  • Mexico: Rebozo
  • Indonesia: Selendang

What to Consider about Fabric in a Baby Carrier?

 

• • Breathability
  • Strength
  • Water absorption
  • Need a piece that is about 5-6 yards long and 20-30 inches wide
  • Composition (cotton, synthetics, linen, or lyocell)