Maya Wrap baby sling review

A deceptively simple design, it consists of a long length of hand loomed cotton fabric, made in Guatemala. The sling is worn diagonally across one shoulder, and you adjust it by pulling the fabric through a ring – no straps, buckles or Velcro required. It's much more versatile than it first appears – you can use it to carry babies and toddlers (up to 35lbs) upright, lying down, balanced on your hips and on your back as well as front.

What we love

There's a cool, almost hippy-ish, timeless appeal to this design that I loved – I had the Maya Wrap in a lovely rainbow design. I used this sling mainly during the first months of my son's life, and there were times when it literally was the only way of getting him to sleep. A walk round the block with him in the Maya Wrap usually did the trick when nothing else did. The sling goes over one shoulder, and across your back, leaving your hands free. I found I could get on with tidying, washing up or other chores while he snoozed against my chest.

Unlike many designs, the Maya Wrap can be used in a multitude of ways. You can let your little one snooze hammock-style in the front carrying position, so he's tucked out of sight. This position is also handy if you want to breastfeed discreetly – you can use the sling's 'tail' at the front to cover your modesty. You can let baby sit upright so his bottom is settled inside the sling, in the 'football carry' or 'kangaroo' positions, and even use the sling to carry a toddler on your back.

There are many other ways to use the Maya Wrap, including using it to carry twins! Fortunately the sling arrives with a DVD, which we'd definitely recommend watching several times. It’ll help you get much more use out of it, and not give up at the first hurdle.

The cotton fabric is nice and cool in hot weather (unlike some padded slings), and it's machine washable. It folds down easily so you can slip it into your bag. It also has a handy zip pocket for nappies etc in the 'tail'.

What to watch out for

There's no doubt the Maya Wrap requires a little patience at first (something you may not have if you've been surviving on three hours sleep a night!). You definitely need to practice getting the ring into the right position, and make sure the fabric doesn't bunch up or get twisted. There's also a knack required for adjusting the size of the 'pouch' so your baby doesn't slip out or get lost inside. The DVD is great, but can feel daunting when you see all the potential positions. However, once you've figured it out, you're away.

Though this sling can be used up to weight 35lbs, as your little one gets older – and more wriggly!- you may want to progress onto something else. Again the DVD gives handy tips on using the sling correctly so you don't suffer back pain, and distribute the weight properly over your back, but you need to pay attention!

Who is the Maya Wrap baby sling best for?

Mums after a natural, traditional sling that will give their baby a sense of security.

MadeForMums verdict

The Maya Wrap is a lovely traditional sling, and a great way for mums (and dads) to bond with their baby, especially during the early months. It's also a great way to rock fractious little ones to sleep while you get on with something else. It's compact, cool, light, comfy and incredibly versatile. However, you do need to spend some time watching the DVD and practicing using it properly to get the most out of it.