Monday, August 9, 2010

Big names closing thier doors

Both Hotslings, Inc. and Rockin' Baby Slings are closing their doors due to the current environment and issues with the CPSC recalls (not of their products) and statements.

Unfortunately, they will not be the last familiar names or industry leaders who's slings and carriers we are losing.

You can read the BCIA press release and tribute to Hotslings founder (and BCIA board member) Kristen DeRocha here.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Babywearing is in Danger!

Babywearing is in danger. Your right choose the type of baby carrier you want to use is in jeopardy.

When I saw the recall of the Infantino bag "sling" I did a silent cheer. Mamas and business women in the babywearing world had been researching and talking about the problems with these carriers for several years and it seemed that someone "up there" finally listened. Then there was the recall of the small batch of slings from a WAHM I posted about but didn't really have much info on - they looked OK from the picture and I never really found anything online that implicated the product in the death. But, the slings were still recalled.

Now we face a much bigger problem that could affect us all: The recalls threaten to keep going with all carriers that the baby can go below the "rim". That means all the carriers we know and love. All the carriers sold outside the big box stores. All the wonderful carriers and slings that give us so many sweet times with our little ones. All the great, simple pieces of cloth that hold baby close in a safe and healthy way. At least one well known, well loved and respected sling business has already been affected and more are at risk.

The Baby Carrier Industry Alliance has been formed to "advance the well-being, growth, and interests of baby carrier manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, and educators. It does so through advocacy, public relations, information sharing, industry research, and business development assistance conducted with appreciation for the needs of parents, caregivers, and children." They are currently working hard to create a voluntary standard for slings with the ASTM and stop the recalls and they need our support to make it happen.

Please visit the BCIA site and make a donation to help everyone that's working so hard to save our slings.

** If I've helped you in any way with my lending library, if you've found helpful info on The Babywearer, if you've gotten an extra snuggle or kiss because of your sling, wrap or carrier, please support the BCIA's efforts to keep babywearing safe. Any amount will help fund their very expensive efforts.

Happy Babywearing!