This was a definite improvement over the sling I wore with my three girls: The organic cotton was super soft, and I loved the beautiful print (Mango Stone design, pictured). But my youngest is 2, so I handed it over to Fort Worth mom Leslie Atchley and 4-month-old Audrey Belle.

THE VERDICT: It took mother and child some getting used to, Atchley says, but once they got comfy with the cradle position, she got some housework done while Audrey Belle quietly sucked her thumb.

WHERE TO GET IT: Carriers $75-$100, Babies R Us and Whole Foods; see www.ellaroo.com for more retailers.

Written by Felicia Pinkney