How to Select a Baby Carrier

By definition, a baby carrier is a device used to carry an infant or small child on the body of an adult caregiver. On-the-body baby carriers are designed in various forms such as slings, wraps, and soft structured front, back or hip carriers. Varying materials and degrees of rigidity, decoration, and support are used for carrying the child.  Here are a few common types of baby carriers and some considerations for choosing a baby carrier that best suits your family.

Slings

Slings are a baby carrying device comprised of a piece of cloth. The ends of the cloth are linked together, sometimes with a metal ring on one end and known as a Ring Sling. It is “slung over the shoulder and a pouch to put the baby in is formed at the wearer’s waist.

Wraps

A wrap carrier does exactly what it sounds like: it wraps itself around you and your baby. A wrap is a long strip of fabric that goes around the wearer’s body several times and is tied in a way that creates a secure pocket for the baby to sit or lay. The wrap is usually positioned over the wearer’s shoulders.

Soft Structured Baby Carriers

A lot of moms and dads feel more comfortable with an original baby carrier that has more structure. With its padded shoulder straps and safety buckles, a soft structured front baby carrier is easy to secure. It is also very versatile, in the front, hip, and back positions, and can carry a lot of weight. They distribute the parent’s weight more evenly over their shoulders and back. When using a soft structured carrier, either a three-position or four-position baby carrier, keep in mind you may need to use an infant insert until baby has strong head control and can comfortably sit in a spread squat position in the baby carrier.  For more information, click here.

Try out any baby carrier you are considering buying to see if it suits you. Ask friends if you can borrow theirs for a trial. Or, better yet, check to see if there is a babywearing group in your area. Check with shops and internet sites to be sure you will be able to return the baby carrier (undamaged, unstained, and in original packaging) if it turns out to be uncomfortable.

Features to Look For in a Baby Carrier

• Holds baby in a safe, comfortable position
• Fits all those who will regularly carry the baby
• Adjustable soft padded shoulder straps and waist belts that are fairly wide and don’t twist. Unpadded straps tend to cut in, making shoulders, necks, and backs ache.
• Secure and easy to operate straps, buckles, and snaps
• Straps that can be easily adjusted, if necessary with the baby in the baby carrier
• Adjustable to baby’s growth
• Machine washable
• Light and foldable (if you plan to pack it for travel)
• Nursing-friendly baby carrier (if you are or plan on nursing)

Some Safety Tips for Using a Baby Carrier:

• Baby should be worn high on the parent’s body, close enough to kiss. If a baby is worn too low, it becomes hard to see the baby and monitor her breathing. Wearer must check to be sure baby’s airway is clear and that baby is breathing normally at all times.
• Watch your step and vantage point. Your balance can be affected while using a baby carrier.
• Use common sense when babywearing. Do not perform any activities that would require the use of safety equipment (bicycling, riding a horse, etc.) and always bend at the knees when babywearing.

You can read more safety tips from our friends at Babywearing International here.

What is the best baby carrier for your family? Think about your lifestyle and how you will incorporate baby into your lifestyle. Will you primarily be using the baby carrier around the house? Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Will you be using a different baby carrier for each caregiver? Read more here.