Weight group, up to
The weight group determines the
maximum weight of a baby that can be carried in a kangaroo/sling. This weight should not be exceeded: although backpacks and slings are usually made with a margin of safety, but the service life when exceeding the weight is significantly reduced, simply put — the carrier can fail at any time. In addition, the maximum design weight is not only related to durability, but also to the design of the backpack/sling, and if it is exceeded, both the mother and heavy baby may be uncomfortable.
Age group
The recommended age range for kangaroos/slings is somewhat arbitrary, as children of the same age can vary in weight, height, and development. However, it provides a rough estimate of how suitable a particular model may be for your baby at different stages. The lower age limit, though, is more strict; for instance, if a backpack is labeled "3-12 months," it shouldn't be used for newborns as it's not designed for their needs and could potentially harm their bodies.
Now on the market are carriers designed for this age:
from birth,
from 3 months,
from 6 months.
Orientation
This setting determines where the baby's face will be directed in a standard kangaroo/sling placement.
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Face to mother. The position facing the mother is considered optimal in terms of the load on the child's spine; in addition, it ensures the maximum degree of contact between the child and the parent. On the other hand, with this placement, the baby will mainly see the chest or back of the parent (see "Baby Position") — in order to see at least a little of the world around him, he will have to turn his head a lot.
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Face from mom. The position facing away from the mother is considered less ergonomic, because. it creates an additional load on the baby's spine. At the same time, with a short stay of a child in a "kangaroo" / sling, this does not give any significant consequences, and a curious baby can easily survey the world around.
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Bidirectional. The most versatile option is "kangaroos" and slings, which allow you to place the child both facing the mother, and vice versa, if desired.
Height adjustment
Ability
to adjust the height of the baby in the sling/kangaroo. This feature provides the ability to adjust the device for maximum comfort for both the baby and the mother. And in some models due to the adjustment can also change the internal volume, which can be useful as the baby grows.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding design. In this type of feeding, the baby is positioned in a reclined position, resting on the mother's thigh so that the baby's head is at breast level. Feeding a baby in a kangaroo/sling is easier due to the more comfortable weight distribution, and the device also hides the mother's breasts from the views of others.
Headrest
The presence in the design of the kangaroo/sling of a special
headrest. This headrest ensures the optimal position of the baby's head and protects it from strong displacements that could damage the spine. And some options cover the head not only from the back, but also from the sides, providing additional protection from both accidental contact with surrounding objects and bad weather.
Hood
The presence of a
hood in the design of the kangaroo/sling. The hood is useful in case of adverse external conditions — it will protect the baby's head and neck from rain, snow, cold wind, etc.
Bib
The presence of a
bib in the delivery set of kangaroo/sling. Unlike the classic use (when the bib is attached to the child's chest and protects his/her clothes from contamination), in this case it is attached at the level of the baby's head and covers the parent's clothes. A very useful feature when carrying the baby facing the mother (see "Orientation").
Back pocket
The presence of a
pocket on the outside; commonly found in kangaroo backpacks. This pocket can be used to transport a variety of additional items, ranging from toys and baby food jars to documents and other personal items.
