Manduca First - Brown (tester model) (SSC320) Due 27/05/2024

Overview

Manduca are one of the most popular babywearing brands in Europe - and much requested by sling library users who have heard them being raved about by friends on the continent (particularly in Germany, where the brand is based).

Their carriers are really built to last, with great sustainability credentials (organic cotton and hemp as their materials) and lots of clever features for comfortable and adjustable babywearing.  

I really like them!

The First model is the original 'classic' Manduca carrier.  For babies under 3 months, there is an infant 'seat' to raise their height in the carrier. In my opinion this is a bit fiddly to use and get a good position in.  The Manduca XT (that doesn't have the infant seat) might be easier. If you're carrying a child who is over 3 months old, you'll likely find the Manduca First and the XT equally as straightforward.

Details

Fabric: 100% organic cotton

Manufacture: Made in Czech Republic

Washing: Machine wash at up to 40 degrees with non-bio and without fabric conditioner. Air dry.

Child weight range: 3.5kg - 20kg

Wearer size: Fits wearers with a waist size of up to 140cm

Instructions

Carrying options: Front carry facing in, hip carry and back carry (once able to sit unaided).

How to guides:

Official Manduca instructions (downloadable in different languages)

Crossed straps - a great video from South London Sling Library (XT and First work the same for straps)

Ruck sack straps:
I like to do a pre-clipped method - there's a great Carrying Matters photo tutorial for this here (works with lots of carriers and is fab to save you having to do up a clip behind your back with one hand and wiggly baby)