The Hip Hammock has a long history. Originally created by an independent company, the Hip Hammock name and design was sold to Playtex Products Inc. Then, in 2005, Playtex Products Inc. recalled the Hip Hammock Child Carrier because weak stitching affected the integrity of the product. However, a new and improved Hip Hammock has been released by Playtex, and this review addresses the latest version.
Two versions of the new and improved Playtex Hip Hammock are available: a standard version and a deluxe version. This is a review of the standard Playtex Hip Hammock.
OVERVIEW
The Playtex Hip Hammock is a simple baby carrier that allows you to carry a baby on your hip. It lacks versatility since a hip carry is the only way you can carry a baby in this product. Essentially, the fabric part of the carrier is connected to a band around your waist and a band around your shoulder, thus creating a “hammock” in which your child rests.
QUALITY
At the price of about $30, which is significantly less than I paid for my other ergonomically correct baby carrier, I expected low quality from this item. I was, however, pleasantly surprised. Although the Playtex Hip Hammock won’t win any awards for its fabrics and buckles, the overall feel of the carrier is more than adequate. The fabric is a bit rough to the touch, but I believe that may soften after a few washings. The waist buckle could use an extra safety strap to ensure it doesn’t accidentally release, but that’s a minor quibble.
The pattern on the fabric I purchased was black exterior with a black and white checked interior. (The interior folds down to show a bit behind the baby’s back.) This suits my simple tastes nicely, but others may not like the lack of fabric choices.
EASE OF USE
As with all baby carriers, I had to read the instructions to ensure I was wearing the Playtex Hip Hammock correctly. The instructions weren’t totally clear, as I was unsure how to arrange the strap over my arm. After a few different tries, however, I did find the best position for me.
Once I learned how to properly wear the Playtex Hip Hammock, it became a breeze to use. After it was fitted to my waist, there’s only one snap buckle to deal with when putting the hip carrier on, plus another shoulder buckle for adjusting to proper fit. I found it much easier and less hassle than the typical baby carrier, especially if I’m running multiple errands and need to be putting it on and taking it off throughout the day.
COMFORT
Overall the Playtex Hip Hammock is comfortable, although there are a few minor issues. If I lift the arm on which the shoulder strap rests, the strap can slip and slide into my neck. It’s simple to readjust, but this can be annoying when I’m doing a lot of reaching, such as in the supermarket. I do feel some stress on my shoulder and back after extended wear, but for short errands it’s fine.
My baby seems comfortable in the Playtex Hip Hammock, too, although she does not fall asleep in it like she does in her other baby carrier. This may be because she’s facing outward more when she’s on my hip, so she’s too busy looking at her surroundings to nap.
Although the Playtex Hip Hammock does allow you to have the baby totally hands free, I don’t recommend it. The arm closest to your baby should be supporting his/her body most of the time. This puts less pressure on your back and shoulder, thus allowing for a comfortable carry for a longer period of time. It also gives your baby extra security. Although my baby has not fallen out of the Playtex Hip Hammock, she can get quite wiggly while sitting in it. I feel a lot safer knowing I have one arm on her most of the time. In a way, the Playtex Hip Hammock is designed to take some of the weight off your arm when carrying your baby on your hip, rather than being a total hands-free baby carrier.
FEATURES
There are two great features of the Playtex Hip Hammock. First, the “toy” ring. This is just a small loop within the baby’s reach. It’s the perfect place to hang a baby toy or pacifier. It seems like a simple thing, but it can make a big difference when you’re trying to keep your baby amused.
The second great feature is its compact design. The Playtex Hip Hammock can be rolled up tight and secured with the attached elastic band and button. When rolled, it can easily be stowed in a large diaper bag.
Another feature (that I never use) is the key ring. For busy mommies who don’t want to misplace their keys in an overflowing diaper bag, the key clip may be useful.
OVERALL
I am extremely pleased with the Playtex Hip Hammock. Although it has some downsides, it was well worth the $30. And since it holds babies from 15-35 lbs, I’ll be able to use it for quite a long time.
