Uccomama - re: Hot Slings

[Piglet]

I have been following your discussions about slings and carriers and wanted to ask a question myself...

I followed one of the links you gave Pamela for Hot Slings and I really like their materials and prices. Are they good slings in terms of hip carrying a 30 lb 22 month old? I want something small enough that it will fit in the diaper bag or in my stroller basket (not huge) when not in use.

I also can't decide what the benefits/drawbacks are to padded rails. I know what the front rail is used for and what the back rail is used for, but are they necessary? Would you get padded rails if this is your one and only sling (i.e. - might be used for a baby one day). I have a front carrier that I really like and used it a lot for my son, so I like carrying him, I just don't have any sling experience, other than trying out a friend's (very bulky) OTSBH .

Any thoughts would be appreciated - btw, I don't want to spend too much, since I just bought yet another stroller, LOL!

Thank you so much for your insight!

Marina