Hi there,

My DS is almost 9 weeks and I understand what you mean with the clingyness, he's doing it a bit too!

I really doubt that your DH's mum rocking him to sleep once is the cause of this, I don't think babies can have habits until they're a bit older. I agree with Arcadia, I'm thinking it sounds like a wonder week, but you also have to remember that he's starting to really understand the world, that he can do things (move his legs and arms, "talk" etc) and everything he sees and does is completely new, and it would probably be a little bit scary too! He wants to feel mum & dad near him to comfort him and reassure him that everything he's seeing and feeling is okay. It's really normal for babies to want to be cuddled because of how snuggly they were in the womb. Are you wrapping him? That could really help.

Instead of rocking him to sleep, you could try rocking him until he's almost asleep and then laying him down and letting him self settle, it might be little easier for now. But if that doesn't work, just enjoy holding your beautiful bubs, forget the housework! Most mums will tell you you might as well get used to a messy house! It can get done when your DH is home, or have someone come over for a cuddle and do it then.
When my DS didn't like his playmat, it really helped to get down there with him and play with him, show him how it's done and how fun it can be for him.

Also with the sling, maybe give in another go? I just got one and it hurt me the first couple times because I hadn't figured out the best way to wear it. Fiddle with it a bit while it's on and DS is in (get your DH to help you) and you might be able to make it work for you.

HTH!