When can I carry my baby in a front pack facing out? Hypnosis for labor: Does HypnoBirthing work? Does my baby need an iron supplement? When does my toddler need to be around other children?No matter how cozy a swing or bouncy seat is, babies like being cradled in your arms best. But toting your love around all day isn’t really feasible unless you have arms of steel, and a bunch of minions to do your daily tasks. That’s where a baby carrier comes in handy. Getting a carrier isn’t a necessity - you could use a stroller when you’re out and about and a bouncy seat or swing at home. But it is the only gadget that lets you do your own thing, hands-free, while your little one relaxes against you. Most parents say it’s their favorite baby product, no matter the type or brand. It gives your arms a break and can easily sub in for a stroller, especially if your child gets upset when they can’t see you or you need to navigate crowded spaces like airports and stadiums.
It’s also great to use if you like hiking and want to bring your child along. Some parents only use a baby carrier when their child is small - newborn through six months or so. Other parents continue to use a carrier well into the toddler stage. You’ll get the most out of it before your little one learns to walk and wants to roam free. Most parents swear that baby carriers are a lifesaver, so you really can’t go wrong adding one to your registry. Baby carriers come in three styles: Wraps: A super long piece of stretchy fabric you configure and tie around your body, usually over your shoulders and around your mid-section, to create a carrier Slings: A wide piece of fabric that goes over one shoulder and across your torso Structured Carriers: More like a backpack with straps over the shoulder and a padded carrying “pack” that can be placed on your chest or back Choosing one depends on what you think will work best for your family. To start take a look at these carriers that got the highest props from BabyList parents.
These carriers are ready for your little love as soon as they are born, without the use of an extra insert. However, your baby will most likely outgrow these picks when they turn 12-15 months old. Most Womb-LikeMoby WrapWHY WE LOVE IT The Moby Wrap is like one, big hug for your newborn baby. A huge swath of fabric is wrapped around you and your wee one for the ultimate nestling experience. Plus, since the wrap is just one, big piece of cotton jersey fabric that you configure each time, it adjusts to various body types and grows with your baby. To master the Moby, you’ll need to watch the instructional videos multiple times. There’s a major learning curve! WHAT BABYLIST PARENTS SAY “It takes a little practice to get the hang of wrapping it properly - not too tight or too loose, positioned on the mom’s body correctly, etc. But it is so comfortable and helps baby feel secure and safe.” -Jaimie “Wrapping was hard to get used to, but with a little practice, I got the hang of it and doesn’t take longer than a minute now.” -Kourtney
Weight limits: 8-35 lbs. Available positions for baby: front-inward, sling, hip A Simple WrapBaby K'tan Baby CarrierWHY WE LOVE IT All the coziness of a wrap without the hassle of actually wrapping makes Baby K’Tan a hit with parents. Simply slip on the two attached loops of fabric and after two more steps any sleep-deprived mom could figure out, the carrier is ready for baby. Once your little one is tucked inside, an additional fabric sash goes around both of you for extra security. We like the Active version because the sporty fabric wicks away sweat, dries quickly, and blocks UVA and UVB rays. The downside of the K’Tan is that it comes sized like clothing. So, unless you’re the same size, you can’t share the carrier with anyone else. Also, when ordering, you might want to go down in size since the K’Tan tends to stretch out. “It’s not immediately intuitive, but once you watch a video or are shown [how to use it] then it’s so easy. “My baby loves it.
It helps him calm down when I wear him. It was easy to use.” -KristenIt’s so easy to put on (no tying or figuring out what goes where). I still use it with my 8 month old.” -Ashley Available positions for baby: Front-inward, front-outward, sling style and on hip These picks can typically support little ones well into the toddler stage and can often carry baby in many versatile positions. To be used with newborns, however, these picks usually require an infant insert. Pricy, But AwesomeErgobaby 360 Baby CarrierWHY WE LOVE IT There are lots of options with Ergobaby’s 360 carrier like four different sitting positions for your little one and a wide, adjustable waistband for you. The main difference between this and the Original carrier? Your baby can face out when carried in the front, so he gets to take in the world as you walk around. Unlike the Original, the 360 does not have the convenient zip pocket that lots of parents love. The newborn insert ($38) allows you to use this when your baby is 7 to 12 pounds, but some parents find the insert makes their baby too sweaty in the summer.
Also, if you’re on the shorter side, the Ergo might not fit your torso. “I love how versatile the Ergo is. As your baby grows, you can use it in different carrying positions to meet your needs and you barely feel the weight of your baby. I could (and sometimes still do) carry my baby all day!” -Katie “Comfortable, a little difficult to get on and off by myself at times, but I know baby is secure.” -Steph Weight limits: 12-33 lbs. Available positions for baby: front-inward, front-outward, hip and back Easy to Get OnBabyBjorn Original Baby CarrierWHY WE LOVE IT Super easy to put on by yourself, and a breeze to slip your baby out of with the click of two side snaps (especially good if your little one has fallen asleep and you need to transfer to bed), the original BabyBjorn is small and lightweight. Pack this one in your diaper bag and go. The original BabyBjorn doesn’t have a waistband, and pressure on your back can get intense after a while.
The company does offer other, more expensive versions with additional support. “This carrier is so easy to use. If your baby loves facing out, this is the carrier for you. Plus, it is easy to clean.” -Allison “I like the sturdy clips. It makes me feel safe, and I don’t worry about my baby falling out.” -Rose Weight limits: 8-25 lbs. Available positions for baby: Front-inward, front-outward Structured, But SoftBoba 4G Baby CarrierWHY WE LOVE IT This made-for-everyone carrier can adjust to fit parents five to six feet tall, and has a zippered pocket to store your phone, credit cards, or other essentials. It comes with both the infant insert as well as removable foot straps to support your little one’s legs. It can be difficult to reach behind your head to secure and tighten the top back strap. Also, since the waistband is made of softer fabric, it doesn’t offer as much back support as other carriers. “The Boba is comfortable, moves with you, and is soft for baby.
I was able to use it for multiple stages.” -Betsy “The Boba is super easy, and a lot more supportive for baby than a stretchy wrap.” -Sarah Weight limits: 7-45 lbs. Available positions for baby: Front-inward and back When choosing a baby carrier, keep a few factors in mind. The first, and most important, factor is comfort. Will the carrier be comfortable not only for your child, but also for you? You might be using it for multiple hours a day. Also, will it need to adjust to fit another caregiver? If yes, make sure that the carrier you choose can accommodate a wearer of a different size. Lastly, do you want a carrier particularly suited for the baby stage or one that will work for toddlers as well? The more your child weighs, the more back support you need and you’ll have to be sure to purchase a carrier that will accommodate a higher weight. Once you find the perfect match though, you’ll join the ranks of those who love cuddling with their baby and still being able to get things done.