Tag: Baby Wearing

LILLEbaby Complete {Carrier Review!}

Published on by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

 

I have been baby-wearing since my son was born. We’ve used a great many carriers: the Infantino Fusion, Ergo, Ring Sling, and Tula (some of which I’ve reviewed on this site! Check out our baby-wearing category for more.)

The “buzz” on baby-wearing has recently shifted to LILLEbaby, a company that I hadn’t heard of prior to having my son, but certainly have heard PLENTY about in the last few months. Their carriers have really gotten a ton of momentum, so I wanted to see what the craze was all about.

Lille was kind enough to send the Complete carrier my way to test and review, and I’m so glad they did!

The carrier’s packaging is simple, elegant, and appealing to the eye. When the box showed up on my stoop I was like a little kid on Christmas. Within minutes I had it unpackaged, had read through the instructions, and had my toddler on my back to tote around.

The carrier’s adjustments are similar to most that I’ve used (and very similar to the Tula.) Easy straps to adjust, safety strap around the waist, hood with easy anchor. But the Lille’s design goes above and beyond the expected. Here’s why:

-The carrier is simple to put on. Forward and side potions are exceptionally simple, and back carry just takes time or another person. I’ve never been one that is comfortable with back-carry when I’m on my own.

-The waist strap is thicker than most, and includes lumbar support (or hides your belly pouch, which I was stoked about…)

-The chest/back strap has an extra cushion so that it doesn’t pull so hard on your skin.

-The hood has simple snaps, with multiple adjustments.

-The fabric is soft, and easily cleaned (machine washable.) Unlike some other carriers, this fabric feels ‘broken in’ from day one.

-My personal favorite: the back panel unzips to allow for a breathable mesh backing, which is so nice for when we’re out doing work/hiking since my LO gets so hot. If you’re out in the cold/wind, zip the panel back up for a layer of extra protection.

-Fold down head support. My toddler mostly likes to sit with his arms free, but when he falls asleep it’s nice to pull the head rest and hood up to keep him cozy and shaded from the sun.

-Several neutral colors, but also a great many (and ever-expanding) set of patterns!

-Works in SIX positions all the way from newborn (7lbs)-45lbs. (Adjustable from narrow, to wide seat.)

-Stirrups can be purchased as an addition. I already have a set, and my guy loves them. I’d highly recommend them, especially for anyone with a toddler that likes to stretch out.

I’ve worn my carrier several times now, in multiple positions. I’ve done some serious yard work with my 26lb toddler on my back, and can say that I was comfortable, as was he, the entire time.

I initially struggled with the wide waist strap and getting it to feel ‘right’ for me. I found that simply making and adjustment and pulling the shoulder straps tighter to my body corrected the problem fully.

There is a pocket on the carrier, but I would love to see more, particularly a waist pocket that zips, similar to what most structured carriers have. Because let’s be honest: a great many of us live in yoga pants, with no pockets, and having a pocket on my hip for my phone, cash, cards, and keys would be ideal. (You’ll notice in one of my photos I slid my iPhone into the waistband. Not safe or practical, but necessary in the moment!)

Lille is one of my new favorites. Their line includes more than just the Complete carrier, but this concept is hands down one of my favorites. For anyone that loves baby-wearing, toddler-wearing, and ESPECIALLY those of you that have a hot little one, this is the carrier for you. I found the Lille practical, comfortable, and to be a good deal (the complete runs around $139, depending on where you’re purchasing.)

To see more on the Lille Complete, head over to:
SIX-Position, 360° Ergonomic Baby & Child Carrier by LILLEbaby – The COMPLETE All Seasons (Stone)

-Katie

**Burrito Buzz received this product at low or no cost for the purpose of review or testing. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences and we never guarantee a positive review.**

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Infantino Fusion {Babywearing Review}

Published on by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

I am a huge proponent of baby-wearing, and love that the concept has gained so much momentum recently. Baby-wearing can be seen throughout history, but seems as though it was pushed to the back burner for a long period of time in favor of various other options. Not only does baby-wearing help a new mom/dad bond with their baby, but it frees up your hands, something we all know is crucial when you’re just trying to get a few things done in the day. Baby-wearing is shown to help with post-partum depression and baby blues, too!

So I’ve tried a few carriers. When my little guy was super little I liked to have him curled into a Ring Sling. When he was a little bigger, I tested out the Tula. I soon hope to test a few other great carriers, but one that I tested that I think could use some improvement is the Infantino Fusion, Flexible Position carrier. And I’ll be the first to tell you, when it comes to baby products you generally get what you pay for.

All of these carriers are “safe”, but some are better for both you and your little. There is a lot of controversy over whether or not certain carriers cause hip dysplasia or not, but I’m not a medical expert, so I’ll skip the subject and let you do your own research. What I can say, is that both myself and my LO were much more comfortable in more ergonomic carriers. 

  • The Infantino is structured to allow many different carrying positions (back, forward facing in, forward facing out,) and babies 8-32 lbs.
  • There are flaps that can be buttoned in or out to make for a wider or more narrow seat. The buttons were exceptionally difficult to use, and not worth the hassle.
  • The fabric is thick, and while maybe comfortable at first, my LO quickly became pretty toasty in this carrier.
  • There is a head flap that can button down, or stay up for additional head support. No qualms here… this was a feature I liked.
  • The straps for the carrying parent are thin, not particularly comfortable, and not very easy to put on along. They also don’t offer safety elastic like many other carriers do, a feature that is reassuring and I’d prefer to have.
  • I also love that many other carriers have sun shade hoods, drool pads, and a pocket. Non of which the Infantino has.
  • I also struggle to understand the narrow center of the carrier. The carriers that I’ve been a fan of have been wide, and wide from top to bottom. Not only does this provide comfort and a place to snuggle in, but good coverage from the sun when out hiking around.
  • The carrier is, however, much more affordable than a typical carrier. The Fusion can be purchased for about $40, which is well under the typical $150 you’ll spend with any other brand.

Overall, adjustments do need to be made to this carrier and it’s not currently one I would recommend to the baby-wearing parent or caretaker.

-Katie