Woven Wrap Sizing Guide: What’s Your Perfect Size?

What Is A Woven Wrap

A woven wrap is a long piece of fabric, usually made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, that is used to carry a baby.

It is unique in that it can be tied and wrapped around the wearer and the child in a variety of different ways, providing support for both the parent and the baby.

If you are completely new to babywearing, feel free to check out my babywearing beginner’s guide and my best baby wraps overview. You’ll learn essential things about all types of baby carriers and which one to choose for particular needs.

Choosing A Woven Wrap: General Guidelines

When choosing a woven wrap, there are some general guidelines to consider.

1. It’s important to think about the size of the wrap, as this will determine the carrying positions and amount of fabric needed. 

2. The fabric blend is also crucial, with options including 100% cotton, linen, or hemp. 

3. Consider your climate and the weight of your baby when choosing the fabric. As a quick example, it’s not a good idea to buy a stretchy woven wrap for a toddler.

4. Lastly, think about the design and color of the wrap, as this is a personal preference and can also affect the resale value if you decide to sell it in the future.

Types Of Woven Wraps Based on Fabric Blends

There are several different types of woven wraps to choose from.

Some popular options include COTTON, which is lightweight and breathable, making it suitable for all seasons.

LINEN is another popular choice, known for its strength and durability, as well as its ability to wick away moisture.

SILK woven wraps offer a luxurious feel and an elegant drape, while wool wraps provide warmth and coziness, perfect for cooler weather.

Additionally, there are BLENDS of different fibers available, such as cotton and bamboo, which offer a combination of softness and support.

A blend of cotton and spandex makes a stretchy baby wrap. The stretchy wrap supports the baby’s growing body while evenly distributing the baby’s weight across the parent’s shoulders and back, making it an ideal choice for newborns.

Why Do Woven Wraps Come In Different Lengths?

Different body types and carrying positions require different lengths of fabric to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Longer wraps may be preferred for more versatile tying options, while shorter wraps are often chosen for simplicity and ease of use.

Length of Woven Baby Wrap

The length of a woven baby wrap typically varies between 4.2 to 5.2 meters or 14 to 17 feet. This length provides enough fabric to securely wrap around the caregiver and baby, ensuring a snug and supportive fit for optimal comfort and safety. The longer length also allows for various wrapping styles and carrying positions, making it versatile for different body types and wrapping style preferences. It also accommodates parents of different sizes, including plus-size moms.

Woven Wrap Sizing Explained (In Meters)

Wraps are sized in meters, although some brands will also use a numbering system and/or size names. Wraps are most commonly referenced by their Didymos size equivalents:

• Size 1 – 2.2 meters (also referred to as a rebozo length or super shortie)
• Size 2 – 2.7 meters (also referred to as a rebozo length or shortie)
• Size 3 – 3.2 meters (also referred to as a long shortie)
• Size 4 – 3.7 meters
• Size 5 – 4.2 meters
• Size 6 – 4.7 meters (also referred to as a Standard)
• Size 7 – 5.2 meters (also referred to as a Maxi)

What Size Baby Wrap Do I Need?

The answer to this question depends on two things: the carries you want to do and your size (your shirt size more than your height).

One advantage wraps have over other carriers is that they always give a custom fit; mamas (and daddies!) of all shapes and sizes can wrap!

Most wrappers start with a long baby wrap that can be used for multi-layer carries. Most average-sized women will use a size 6 as their long wrap; plus-size mamas or daddies may be more comfortable with a size 7, while petite folks can likely use a 5.

Remember, it’s t-shirt size and not height that matters. You can always use a wrap that is longer than you need; just wrap the extra back around your waist.  However, most wrappers find it best to figure out your perfect size for the easiest wrapping. If you find your wrap is too long for you, you can always have it hemmed down.

If you like wrapping, you may find it helpful to have another wrap or two in different sizes to more easily do different woven wrap carries. Most wearers will go down 2 sizes to do mid-length carries.  Most every wearer can use a size 2 or 3 for shortie carries.

What’s My Perfect Woven Wrap Size?

When it comes to baby wraps, the “better” size depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If simplified, the most common sizes are:

• Short: Approximately 2-2.7 meters (6.5-8.8 feet) long. It’s often called rebozo or shortie among baby wearers.
• Medium: Approximately 3.2-4.2 meters (10.5-14 feet) long. From long shortie to size 5, according to Didymos.
• Long: Approximately 4.6-5.5 meters (15-18 feet) long. Standard to Maxi (sizes 6 to 7) equivalent of Didymos size chart.

Each size has its advantages and considerations.

Short Wrap Advantages

Short wraps are generally easier to handle and require less fabric to wrap. They are suitable for quick carries and are often preferred in hot climates or for shorter durations. However, they may limit the number of tying options available.

Medium Wrap Advantages

Medium-sized wraps offer a good balance between versatility and ease of use. They provide enough fabric for a wide range of tying techniques, including front, back, and hip carries.

Many people find medium-sized wraps to be a good starting point as they offer a balance of versatility and manageability.

Long Wrap Advantages

Long wraps provide the greatest flexibility and allow for more complex wrapping styles. They are particularly beneficial for plus-size wearers or those who prefer elaborate wraps. Long wraps are also useful for tandem carries (carrying two babies simultaneously). However, they require more practice to master and can be bulkier to handle.

What to Do With a Shorter Baby Wrap?

If you have a shorter baby wrap, there are still plenty of ways to use it. One option is to use it as a single-shoulder carrier, which can be a comfortable option for quick trips or for carrying a smaller baby. You can also repurpose the wrap as a stylish scarf or use it as a blanket for your little one. Additionally, you can use the wrap for practicing different tying techniques or even as a practice wrap for learning a new type of carry. Don’t let the shorter length limit your options; get creative and find new ways to use your baby wrap!

Examples of Different Carries You Can Use Short Baby Wraps For

One example of a carry that can be done with a short baby wrap is the front wrap cross carry. This carry is great for newborns and allows for easy breastfeeding while on the go.

Another example is the hip carry, which is perfect for when the baby is a bit older and wants to look around and explore.

Short wraps are also excellent for doing quick and easy carries, such as the rebozo carry, or the kangaroo carry. These carries are great for running quick errands or soothing a fussy baby.

When using a short wrap, one-layer baby carries are a common choice, as they are quick and easy to tie. Check out these video tutorials and see for yourself. Whether it’s a front wrap cross carry, a hip carry, or a rebozo carry, one layer of fabric provides the necessary support for your baby. This can be particularly convenient when you are out and about and need to pop your baby in and out of the carrier frequently.

Overall, short baby wraps provide endless possibilities for comfortable and practical carries.

See a detailed overview of all your options on how to use a baby wrap.

Woven Baby Wraps FAQ’s

Where do you buy a woven Baby wrap?

If you’re wondering where to buy a woven baby wrap, there are several options to consider.

One option is to check out online stores, such as Little Zen One, where you can find various options from different brands. For example, my first choice would be Girasol or Didymos.

Another great place to look is at specialty baby stores, where you can get personalized recommendations and hands-on assistance. Many parents also swear by baby boutiques, which often carry unique and stylish woven wraps.

If you prefer to support small businesses, you can look for independent retailers or artisans who specialize in handwoven baby wraps. To name a few – Hope and Plum (a small business owned by mom Skye and mom Mellory), MaxAndSo (a nice Etsy shop of mom Marie from Florida), Chimparoo (Canadian brand created by Christine, a mother of 4), Oscha (woven wraps handcrafted in Scotland, UK).

Lastly, consider checking out babywearing groups and forums, where you can find recommendations and reviews from other parents who have experience with different wraps.

I also share my curated list of the 34 best baby wrap carriers worth your attention in 2024.

What are your favorite Baby Wrap brands To Buy in 2024?

My top three favorite brands for baby wraps are as follows:

1. LennyLamb (wraps made of baby-safe materials and dyes in Poland).
2. Moby wrap (great value for money, available on Amazon).
3. Boba wrap (another great woven wrap, available on Amazon).

Should I have a collection of baby wraps of different sizes?

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Last Updated on January 12, 2024 by Tania Nizova | Published: July 9, 2023