Choosing the right baby carrier can allow you to comfortably baby-wear to your hearts content. Have a look at the following guidelines to make sure that you choose the best carrier for your needs!
What Is a Baby Carrier?
A baby carrier is a piece of equipment designed for you to wear on your front or back whilst your baby sits or lays inside it, keeping them nice and close to you.
What Are the Benefits of A Baby Carrier?
Many babies prefer to be snuggled up to mom or dad over being put down in a stroller or bassinet – a carrier is therefore ideal for keeping you hands free both in and out of the house. Baby carriers are a great way to promote bonding between a baby and the parent who ‘wears’ them, if mom is breastfeeding, a carrier is perfect for ensuring that dad gets some special time with baby too!
What Are the Different Models of Baby Carrier?
The style of baby carrier that you choose will completely depend on your lifestyle and what it is that you want from a carrier. Here are the four main categories of baby carriers:
Ring Sling
A ring sling carrier is made from soft fabric and is typically worn diagonally across the body. They are incredibly easy to transport and can easily fit into a diaper bag, the main concern is the potential risk of suffocation if the baby is not positioned correctly and monitored at all times. They can also cause some back pain and discomfort – but are one of the best choices for breastfeeding on the go!
Baby Wraps
Wraps are a single piece of fabric that is wrapped around the wearer and the baby to keep them close to your chest. This style of carrier is very popular due to it’s stylish look, the ability to wear it in numerous ways to grow with your baby, and the fact that they can fold up very small. This style of carrier can be a little difficult to get used to and may take some practice to master, but can be perfect for short trips or wearing around the house.
Soft Structured Carriers
This type of carrier has more support, giving the baby an actual ‘seat’ and distributing the weight evenly across the wearer. They aren’t always recommended for use with newborns due to the positioning of the baby and the fact that they aren’t hugged close to the wearers chest when inside the carrier.
Solid Structured Carriers
This is a great choice if you’re looking for something more solid to use on long walks, hikes or shopping trips. They are long lasting and can be used well into early childhood. The downside is that they can be quite costly, and can be difficult to put on and take off without the help of someone else.
What Should I Consider when Looking for The Best Baby Carrier?
The style of baby carrier that you choose will completely depend on your lifestyle and what it is that you want from a carrier. Here are some of the things that you’ll want to consider when choosing your baby carrier.
1. Age and weight
Many carriers are not recommended for use on babies younger than 6 months, so check this if you’re wanting to baby-wear your newborn. You may also want to check the maximum age and weight allowance to ensure that you can get the most use out of your carrier.
2. Washing
Can the carrier be washed easily? It’s best to invest in a carrier from which you can easily remove all of the stains that come with having a baby!
3. Ease of use
Is the carrier easy for you to assemble or put on alone? Or does it require the help of somebody else?
4. The fit
Try the carrier on to make sure that the fit is ideal for both you and your baby. If it’s a carrier where your baby’s legs will hang, you’ll want a wide seat to ensure that their hips are kept in a healthy position and to prevent pain. Ensure that the carrier offers enough support that you won’t quickly become uncomfortable, and that the shoulder straps are wide enough to evenly distribute your baby’s weight.
5. Accessories
Many baby carriers come with available accessories. Things like a sun shade, rain hood and clips to attach teething toys to might be something you’ll want to consider.
6. Safety
- Aways follow the instructions and use your baby carrier correctly
- Ensure that baby’s airways are always clear from your chest and the fabric of the baby carrier
- Make sure that your baby is within the weight limitations
- Take the time to ensure that your baby carrier is properly fitted and that your baby is secure
Wrap up
Once you’ve selected the best carrier for your family, make the most of all of the extra time you’ll spend snuggled up to your little one!