Baby carriers provide a hands-free and convenient way to keep your baby close while allowing you to go about your daily activities. But, there are a lot of different options out there!
In this article, we’ll help you choose the right style baby carrier for your needs!
We’ll cover the benefits and drawbacks of each type of carrier so that you understand what your choices are, and get a better sense of what’s best for you.
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How to choose a baby carrier: questions to consider
It makes sense to start your search with some questions that assess your lifestyle and baby carrier needs. Here, I’ve put together some questions to help you narrow down the options and take stock of what might be best:
- What activities do you plan on doing while babywearing? (e.g. walking, hiking, household chores, etc.)
- How long do you plan on wearing the carrier each day? (Quick trips and around the house use don’t often need as much support as someone planning to hike or do long walks with a carrier)
- Do you prefer a carrier that is quick and easy to put on, or are you willing to spend more time wrapping or adjusting the carrier for a perfect fit?
- What is the climate like where you live? (e.g. hot and humid, cold and dry, etc.) Some carriers are more breathable than others, so this is something to consider!
- Do you have any physical limitations or health concerns that may impact the type of carrier you can use? Some carriers are better for people with back strain or weaker cores than others
- Do you want a carrier that will last through multiple stages of your baby’s growth, or are you comfortable buying different carriers as your baby grows?
- Do you prefer a carrier with a certain aesthetic or style?
- Do you want a carrier that is sized to your frame, or one that can be used between both parents or other caregivers?
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Types of baby carriers – defined
Okay, now that we’ve got a foundation for what you should think about when it comes to a carrier, let’s go through the different types.
- Wrap carrier: A long fabric piece that wraps around your body to create a secure and customizable carrying position for your baby
- Ring sling: A one-shouldered carrier with adjustable fabric threaded through rings, allowing for quick and easy adjustments
- Soft-structured carrier (SSC): A structured carrier with padded shoulder straps and waist belt, providing comfortable support and even weight distribution
- Mei tai: A traditional Asian carrier with a rectangular body panel, waist belt, and shoulder straps that can be tied to achieve a snug fit
- Backpack carrier: A carrier designed for outdoor adventures, featuring a sturdy frame and padded straps for carrying your baby on your back
- Hybrid carrier: A versatile carrier that combines the features of multiple carrier styles, offering flexibility and customization options
- Pouch sling: A simple and compact carrier made of a tube of fabric that forms a pouch for carrying your baby
- Hip seat carrier: A carrier with a padded seat that allows you to carry your baby on your hip while providing support and comfort
- Nursing cover carrier: A carrier that doubles as a nursing cover, allowing you to breastfeed discreetly while keeping your baby close
Now let’s talk in-depth about the 3 most common baby carrier options (with transferable pros and cons to cover most of what’s listed above IMO! ha)
Wrap-style baby carriers
Wrap-style baby carriers are exactly what they sound like – a long piece of fabric (or pre-looped fabric) that you wrap around your body in a specific way to hold your baby.
Pros of wrap-style baby carriers
- Versatile: Wrap-style carriers can be worn in various positions and adjusted to fit different body types, making them a great option for parents of all shapes and sizes
- Comfortable: The soft, stretchy material provides a snug and supportive fit for both baby and the wearer
- Great for newborns: Wrap-style carriers are really great for smaller babies
- Easy to pack: A wrap-style carrier fits easily into your diaper bag
- Aesthetically pleasing: With a wide variety of fabrics, styles, and patterns you can find a wrap-style carrier that suits you
Cons of wrap-style baby carriers
- Learning curve: Wrap-style carriers can be tricky to master and require some practice to get the hang of wrapping and tying the fabric properly
- Time-consuming: Putting on a wrap-style carrier can take longer than using a structured carrier, which may not be ideal for parents on the go
- Less support for heavier babies: While wrap-style carriers are suitable for newborns and younger babies, they may not provide enough support for heavier or older babies
Soft-structured baby carriers
Soft-structured baby carriers offer a mix of comfort and support for both baby and parent.
They typically have a structured waistband and shoulder straps, with a soft and flexible body panel that molds to baby’s shape.
Pros of structured baby carriers
- Structure: Structured baby carriers usually distribute baby’s weight evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders
- Easy to use: Structured carriers typically have buckles or snaps that make it easy to get the carrier on and off quickly
- Suitable for bigger babies: Structured carriers can usually support bigger babies (up to 45 pounds or more), making them a good option for parents with older or larger infants
- Can be used by both parents: Soft-structured carriers are fully adjustable and don’t come in sizes like some wrap-style carriers
Cons of structured baby carriers
- Bulkier: Structured carriers can be bulky and take up more space in a diaper bag or when traveling
- More expensive: Structured carriers can be more expensive than other types of carriers, which may not fit into everyone’s budget
- May not work for a newborn: Many structured carriers have infant inserts, but in general, they are not as suitable for newborns as wrap-style carriers
Hiking baby carriers
Ready to hit the trails with your little one? A hiking baby carrier is the perfect solution to explore the great outdoors while keeping your baby safe and comfortable. These carriers are designed with sturdy frames and supportive harness systems to provide optimal weight distribution for you and your baby.
It’s important to note that babies should have sufficient head and neck control before using a framed hiking carrier, typically around 6 months of age.
Hiking baby carriers come with various features to enhance your hiking experience. Some models offer a canopy or sunshade to protect your little one from harsh sunlight, while others have a built-in bug screen to keep pesky insects at bay.
Additionally, adjustable straps and padded waist belts ensure a customized fit for maximum comfort during long hikes. With ample storage pockets, you can conveniently carry essential items like diapers, wipes, snacks, and water bottles.
Pros of hiking baby carriers:
- Enables you to enjoy outdoor activities and hikes while safely carrying your baby
- Provides sturdy support with a framed design and secure harness system
- Offers adjustable straps and padded waist belts for comfortable and ergonomic carrying
- Many models come with additional features like canopies, sunshades, and bug screens for added protection
- Offers convenient storage pockets for carrying essential items during hikes
- Can also be useful in situations with extended babywearing of an older child – like at a festival, outdoor party, while supervising older kids at a playground, etc.
Cons of hiking baby carriers
- Generally more expensive compared to regular baby carriers or wraps
- Can be bulkier and heavier due to the framed design
- Requires your baby to have sufficient head and neck control before use (typically around 6 months)
- May limit your mobility or make certain movements more challenging on tough terrains
- Not suitable for all types of hikes or outdoor activities, particularly those with rough or steep trails
Wrapping up (no pun intended!)
In conclusion, choosing the right baby carrier can greatly enhance your bonding experience with your little one while keeping them safe and comfortable. With various types of carriers available, from wraps and slings to structured backpack carriers, there’s a style to suit every parent’s preference and lifestyle.
Consider factors such as your baby’s age, your comfort, and the features you desire, such as canopies, bug screens, or nursing covers. Take the time to explore different options and try them on to find the perfect fit.
Whether you opt for a wrap to snuggle your newborn close or a backpack carrier for outdoor adventures, a well-chosen baby carrier will provide convenience, freedom, and the joy of keeping your little explorer close as you embark on adventures together.
Happy babywearing!
