Is babywearing safe?
Yes! The safest place for a baby is with his caregiver. Held babies cry less, learn more, and enjoy all over health benefits when compared to babies kept in nursery equipment. All babies need and want to be held, a sling is a wonderfully pleasant way to do it. You cannot spoil a baby, and keeping her close to you while retaining your own independence is healthy for both of you!
At what age can I wear my baby?
You can wear a baby from day one up until they get too heavy for you, or about three years old, depending. Most people find that a 35 lb. child is too heavy to carry for any significant amount of time. ObiMamas are designed to be used for babies weighing over 8 pounds.
Why does my baby cry when I try to wear her?
All babies are different, and they change so quickly so keep trying! If you are feeling flustered, frowny, and frustrated, your baby might be responding to that. Often adjusting the position, fixing a pressure point, or some confident swaying is all baby needs to settle down. If all else fails go for a walk—the movement and distraction works wonders.
Can I wear my baby facing out?
At some point baby will become more interested in what’s happening around her and will need a better vantage point. A hip carry or high back carry are great options. Babies can easily become over-stimulated and frequently check a caregiver’s face for cues and reassurance. A baby worn on your front facing out has no safe place to retreat when needed. This is also an awkward position ergonomically speaking, and can throw off the caregiver’s center of gravity.
Can dads wear these?
Yes please! Children need their fathers too. Dads can learn to sling as easily as moms, and ObiMama offers many gender neutral options.
Where can I learn more about babywearing?
The Baby Wearer is an excellent resource. Every question you have about babywearing can be answered here. Log in to access the information in the forums.
Are these carriers machine washable?
Yes! Wash your carrier on a cold, gentle cycle with like colors or alone. Tumble dry gentle, or lay flat to dry. You can place your carrier in a pillow case or mesh bag before washing to prevent it from becoming tangled with other items. As with any article, the more it is washed and dried, the more wear and tear it will show. This is normal.
Are these carriers comfortable?
Yes! Comfort and versatility are ObiMama’s priorities. ObiMama mei tais are created with many thoughtful features that make them exceptional comfortable for both pilot and passenger, and all ObiMama mei tais are made of responsibly sourced natural fabrics to make your conscience comfortable, too. If you’re finding pressure points or digging, spread the fabric out wider, or play with some adjustments. All bodies are different, find what works for you.
Are these carriers safe?
Yes! ObiMama baby carriers are built one at a time on professional equipment with multiple, individual lines of stitching and extra wide seam allowances at all weight bearing areas. Mei tais are an ancient Chinese baby carrier, a simple and comfortable concept that has stood the test of time.
What wraps work best for conversion?
Almost any woven wrap will work, as long as it’s in good condition. We need a size 7 or a 5.2m wrap for a WCMT with a tie waist, and a size 6 or a 4.6m for a buckle waist. We cannot convert summer weight wraps such as Ellaroo, Didymos waves, or Gypsy Mama.
How do I get a custom carrier?
At this time all carries are made one at a time by myself and a few assistants. Custom slots are highly coveted and there is a great deal of good natured competition to “score an Obi.” The number of slots available will depend on our schedule. The date and time that slots become available will be announced on the ObiMama facebook page. These slots have multiple access points, such as random draw, auction, and contest. I also make in-stock carriers that can be shipped immediately. Please read more details here, and also here.
How does an ObiMama perform in the summer?
ObiMamas are made with hot weather as a determining factor. Performance fabrics, ventilating contours, and a stripped down profile are signature features. Choosing a carrier can sometimes be about weighing pros and cons; an ObiMama sling balances comfort, versatility, and functionality to keep you and baby together year-round.
What is your return policy?
We give a full return on in-stock carriers in a like-new condition within 30 days, not including shipping charges. We cannot give returns on custom or modified items.
Do you have a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee?
Nope.
What is your shipping policy?
We ship USPS on weekdays. We do not ship carriers on Saturday or Sunday or holidays. Delivery confirmation is included in the shipping costs for WCMT only. We will provide you with your DC# upon request.
Can I get overnight shipping?
Yes, on in stock items only. We reserve the right to decline overnight shipping because we are a small, family owned business, but we promise to do out best!
Can I get this gift wrapped?
All our carriers are wrapped in tissue and twine when they arrive, and while beautiful they’re not peek-proof. Let us know if you would like a gift card included; it’s our pleasure.
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