One more answer that I think will clarify the particular danger of bag slings (Infantino, Munchkin and JJ Cole) :
A pouch that is too large for the wearer or is worn incorrectly could indeed pose some of the same dangers. Use of any other type of baby carrier carries some risk -- as does use of any stroller, swing, bouncer, etc. Traditional soft carriers are in fact quite safe compared to just about any other product used with or for infants; even when worn inexpertly, they very rarely cause serious injuries, whereas babies are quite often hurt in, for example, falls from high chairs or strollers when the harness isn't fastened or something else about the way the gear is used isn't "proper".
The problem with the bag slings in particular is that even when they are used "properly" -- that is, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions -- the risks are too high due to the design of the carrier. It's just not possible in many cases to use these purse-like carriers in a way that an experienced user of traditional soft carriers would consider "proper." The structured, often padded or stiffened body, the high and often gathered or elasticized sides, and the difficulty of adjusting to a small enough size for an average mother, as well as the thick fabric, combine to force the baby into a poor position, restrict the baby's airflow, AND prevent the wearer from easily sensing the baby's breathing and movements. No other type of carrier (as far as I know) combines so many problematic design features in quite the same way.
Yes, in a traditional pouch or any other soft carrier it is possible to wear the baby poorly positioned, with fabric across the baby's face restricting airflow. But it is relatively easy to sense and correct those problems and most parents find themselves doing so instinctively. Even if they don't really quite know how best to go about it, they support the baby with their arms or reposition the baby or shift the fabric around to get it off the baby's face. If they don't get any better at it, with training or by trial and error, usually they conclude that slings just aren't comfortable and stop using them. This is unfortunate, but at least their babies generally are unharmed by the experience. If the parents are able to get help or to figure out on their own how to get the baby into a better position -- as you clearly did -- so much the better! My fear is that parents who are attempting to use a bag sling just don't have a fair chance at learning to babywear correctly -- and their babies may suffer dramatically if they think, "this must be okay because that's what the instructions say" instead of giving up because it doesn't feel right.
Now, I'm done, I swear :)
Oh, want a better option? Try MayaWrap or one of Rixa's handmade versions! Both are excellent ring slings!
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Speaking of Rixa's slings. Rixa if you're reading this, that sling you made for an expectant couple to whom you suggested they can talk to me if they need help using it -- they're good friends of mine! :-)
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