Feds issue baby sling warning

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission will be issuing a warning on the use of baby slings - those cloth fabric carriers that cradle babies.

"We know of too many deaths in these slings and we now know the hazard scenarios for very small babies, so the time has come to alert parents and caregivers," she said. "We want to empower them to make a decision that is best for the safety of their baby, while realizing that slings play a role in the bonding of baby and mother in many cultures."

I considered using a sling when my daughter was born in September, but we just never got around to getting one. We use a front carrier a couple of times a week. But usually, she's in our arms or playing around on the floor.

But I know that for many parents the sling is a pretty integral part of their whole parenting philosophy. Attachment parenting encourages parents to "wear" their children in the sling. And as Tenenbaum said in her speech, the sling plays a big role in many cultures.

This is sure to be a controversial warning.