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What is a stretchy wrap?

Stretchy wraps are a single long piece of material that you wrap around you and your baby.


There are two types of stretchy wrap a 1-way and a 2-way, both types are tested from around 7lbs - 20lbs, though some brands, such as Izmi, have undergone testing for lower birth weights and state they can be used from 5lbs.

A hanababy 2- way stretchy warp with an hour old baby

Regardless of which type of wrap you choose you will have three layers over baby, two cross passes, which should be spread from knee to knee and up to the nape of the neck and a wrap pass that goes from under baby's knees up to the nape of their neck. This third pass is essential to prevent baby from falling out.


Stretchy wraps of both types can come in a variety of different materials, colours and patterns, however do be wary of extra cheap ones as after a couple of washes some of these can lose their elasticity.


Who is it good for?

A stretchy wrap is a great option for most newborns as it moulds perfectly to baby's body. Furthermore, with consultant support it is an excellent option for babies born prematurely or with low birth weights.


Stretchy wraps are usually best from birth to around 4-6 months, although they can be used for longer if both wearer and baby are comfortable.


How do I use it?


A stretchy wrap can be tied in several ways, however, most instruction manuals only show the pocket wrap cross carry method of tying. It can be used on the hip and front, and can be breastfed in.


How you use a stretchy wrap will vary depending on which type you are using. In many online spaces unhelpful comments such 'tie it swimsuit tight' are given to parents asking for a fit check. This is unhelpful as it does not apply to a 1-way stretchy and can cause frustration for sleep deprived parents who are trying to follow those instructions.


There are many good tutorials on youtube, but I would recommed this one for a 2 - way stretchy, and this one for a 1 - way stretchy for the most common carry, a pocket wrap cross carry. However, for a 1-way stretchy I personally prefer a front wrap cross carry - similar to an early woven wrap carry, and I would recommend using this video for it - I find that it is easier to tighten than a pocket wrap cross carry with a 1 way stretchy.


So what is the difference between the two types?


2-way stretchy wrap

A 2-way stretchy wrap with a 3 month old baby

A 2-way stretchy wrap will stretch equally both along and across the wrap, this means you can get it nice and snug and is easier to get right when pre-tied. It makes it easier to 'pop' the carry, meaning you can tie the wrap when you get dressed in the morning and pop your little one in and out throughout the day as you need. This is the type of wrap that you will often see people telling you needs to be 'swimsuit tight'.

Brands such as Izmi, Hana, Lifft, and Joy and Joe are UK based businesses that offer 2-way stretchy wraps.







1-way stretchy wrap


A one way stretchy wrap will only stretch noticeably in one direction - usually this is across the width. Whilst this does offer more support, and thus the wearer may find it comfortable to reach the upper weight limits, it is harder to pretie and will often require tightening and adjusting once it is on. Although, as you can see from this video, once you have some experience you may well find that you can do your adjustments prior to putting baby in. However, it is not as easily 'poppable' as a 2-way!


Brands that sell 1-way stretchy wraps include: Freerider, Funky Flamingo and Moby


Benefits of a stretchy wrap


  • You can usually pick up good quality stretchy wraps second hand.

  • They are reasonably priced brand new

  • They are a good option for keeping on throughout the day and popping baby in and out as needed

  • They are lightweight

  • They adjust to fit baby and wearer perfectly

  • Genuinely suitable for newborns, including premature babies.

  • Breastfeeding friendly.

  • Lots of UK manufacturers to choose from and support a small business for 2-way stretchy wraps

  • Lots of places to buy 1-way stretchy wraps

  • Lots of tutorial videos available

 

 

Disadvantages of a stretchy wrap


  • They do have a bit of a learning curve

  • They are only suitable for front and hip carries in which the baby is facing the wearer.

  • They are not as long-lasting as some of the other options out there, with many people moving on from a stretchy wrap to something else when their baby is around 4-6 months old.


Summary


Stretchy wraps are a great option for all new parents if you don't mind the learning curve.