BABYWEARING IN IRELAND 

Sling Library Rental Terms & Conditions 

1. Loan Agreement 

A Loan Agreement (via Google Form) must be completed for each carrier borrowed. This will include your: 

  • Name 

  • Address 

  • Contact details 

  • Loan charges 

  • Return method and due date 

A digital copy of these Terms & Conditions, along with your loan details, will be provided upon submission. A new form must be completed for each subsequent loan. 

Your personal data will be processed in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Babywearing in Ireland’s Privacy and Data Protection Policies, available on our website: 

www.babywearinginireland.org

We may contact you regarding your loan and occasional sling library updates or events. You may opt out at any time. 

2. Loan Cost & Duration 

  • All carriers are loaned subject to availability, condition, and suitability. 

  • A maximum of 2 carriers may be borrowed at one time (usually limited to one of each type). ● The standard loan period is 1 month. 

Loan fees: 

  • €15 per month for 1 sling 

  • €25 per month for 2 slings 

Slings must be returned: 

  • At the next sling meeting, or 

  • Before the meeting if you are unable to attend

Re-loaning the same sling for an additional month is: 

  • Subject to availability 

  • At the discretion of the meet librarian 

All items remain the property of Babywearing in Ireland. We reserve the right to request their return at any time. 

3. Payment 

Payments must be made via contactless methods: 

  • SumUp / Square (available at libraries) 

  • Online via our website 

Rental fees are non-refundable, including where items are returned early. 

4. Late Returns 

Late returns may incur: 

  • €1 per day overdue charge 

Where a sling is significantly overdue, an additional rental charge may apply. 

We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise and will always aim to agree a fair resolution where possible. Late fees may be reduced or waived at our discretion if agreed in advance. 

If a sling is not available for re-loan at the next meeting, it will be considered late. 

If a sling is not returned when requested, Babywearing in Ireland may initiate further recovery procedures. 

5. Returns & Postal Returns 

Return details will be agreed at the time of loan. 

If you cannot return the sling in person: 

  • Postal return may be permitted with prior approval 

  • Items must arrive by the Friday before the due date 

When returning by post: 

  • Use Registered Post or a courier 

  • Retain proof of postage 

  • Allow sufficient delivery time 

  • Return to the original lending library 

Packaging requirements: 

  • Securely packaged (preferably double-bagged) 

  • Addresses included on both layers

6. Loss & Damage 

Borrowers are responsible for items during the loan period. 

You may be charged for: 

  • Lost carriers (replacement cost) 

  • Missing components (e.g. hoods, straps) 

  • Missing instructions (€1–€10 depending on type) 

  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear 

Replacement costs will reflect the current market value, including reasonable postage costs. Damage must be reported as soon as possible. 

Do not use a damaged sling under any circumstances. 

7. Condition & Inspection 

All carriers are checked prior to lending to ensure they are in good condition. Before each use you must check the condition of the carrier. 

By accepting the loan, you confirm the carrier is in working order. 

Before each use, you must check: 

  • Buckles 

  • Seams and hems 

  • Fabric integrity 

If any issue is identified: 

  • Stop using the carrier immediately 

  • Contact Babywearing in Ireland 

8. Safe Use of Carriers 

While carriers are safe when used correctly, misuse can result in injury. 

You are responsible for: 

  • Using the carrier correctly 

  • Ensuring your child’s safety at all times 

Babywearing in Ireland takes all reasonable care to ensure carriers are safe and in good condition. However, we are not liable for injury resulting from misuse or failure to follow safety guidance. 

Safety guidance: 

  • Follow manufacturer instructions at all times 

  • Request instructions if not provided 

  • Ensure your baby’s airway is always clear

  • Regularly check fit and positioning 

  • Stop use if you feel pain or discomfort 

We strongly recommend familiarising yourself with the TICKS Guidelines for Safe Babywearing, available on our website or on request. 

Before first use, we suggest practising with a doll, teddy or cushion. 

If you are unsure about anything, please contact us — we are happy to help. 

Do not use slings: 

  • During activities involving wheels, impact, or excessive movement 

  • Where safety equipment is required 

9. Care of Carriers 

General care: 

  • Keep carriers clean and in good condition 

  • Avoid contact with substances that may stain or damage (e.g. oil, paint, pens) 

  • Take care around sharp objects (e.g. keys, velcro, scissors) 

Smoking: 

Smoking while using or near the carrier is strictly prohibited. 

Please inform us if: 

  • You smoke, or 

  • There is a smoker in your household 

This allows us to ensure appropriate cleaning, as smoke exposure increases risks to infants. Cleaning: 

  • Avoid unnecessary washing 

  • Spot clean where possible 

  • Return items in rentable condition 

  • If washing is necessary: 

  • Wash at 30°C (max 1000 spin) 

  • Use mild non-bio detergent 

  • Do not use fabric conditioner 

  • Place in a pillowcase or laundry bag 

  • Line dry only (do not tumble dry) 

Stretchy wraps should be clean before return. 

We cannot guarantee carriers are free from minor marks or pet hair, though we aim to minimise this. Please keep carriers away from pets where possible.

10. General 

All carriers, accessories, and materials remain the property of Babywearing in Ireland at all times. All loans are subject to availability and the discretion of Babywearing in Ireland. 

Many thanks to Emily at the South London Sling Library for permission to adapt their lending Terms & Conditions.