9 Best Baby Carriers for A Newborn
A Baby Carrier is a product used by parents of a newborn or toddler.
It is used to carry the baby, so parents don’t have to tire their hands.
It also allows the parent to do other important work while caring for the baby.
Why Do You Need A Baby Carrier?
In recent times, Baby Carriers have become a widely used product.
It is also crucial in today’s world. Some of the reasons are mentioned below:
Makes your toddler feel secure:
With a baby carrier, you can always have your baby with you.
Whether you are out shopping or cleaning the house, you will be attached to your toddler (literally).
It makes them feel safe and secure as they know that they are not alone or with a stranger.
Prevents them from getting lost:
Besides making them feel secure, Baby-Carrier prevents you from losing them or forgetting them somewhere.
Baby-Carrier keeps your toddler attached to you.
Therefore, you don’t need to carry them in your arms or push a stroller.
Sometimes, while shopping or doing something, you forget where you kept them, or they wander off on their own.
A Baby-Carrier prevents that.
Helps soothe the baby:
According to research, babies of parents who wear a Baby-Carrier are known to cry less than other babies.
The more you use a Baby-Carrier, the more they will be happier and cry less often.
Baby-Carrier will keep your baby quiet and in an alert state. That’s when they learn the most.
Helps your baby enjoy some privacy:
Many people try to touch the baby or play with them while in a stroller.
But if you carry your baby in a Carrier, people can’t touch them as they are wrapped up in a warm cocoon, and it would be a hassle to remove the baby from it and then put them back again.
That provides some privacy to you as a parent and your baby.
Promotes your baby’s physical development:
Usually, a baby lies on their stomach or back.
Suppose a baby remains in mostly these positions. In that case, they may develop unwanted physical abnormalities such as frog legs or a flattened skull at the back of the head.
A Baby Carrier helps keep the baby in an upright posture and keeps them comfortable.
It prevents them from developing any abnormalities at a young age.
When your toddler spends less time crying, they interact more with people or things around them.
When you carry them in a Baby Carrier, they can hear or see things you see or hear.
They can interact with people or things you interact with daily.
Also, you can tend to them or respond to their cues more easily.
Ensures your baby has fun:
When you carry your baby in a front-facing baby carrier, you can see them.
Therefore, you can talk to them by looking them in the eyes.
Similarly, you can see them react to different things happening around them.
Also, they can have fun looking at other people as they are at eye level with them.
7 Types Of Baby Carriers:
Soft-Structured Carrier (SSCs):
A soft structured carrier is made of a soft material, but it’s sewn into a structured seat.
These carriers have padded shoulder straps and buckles.
No elaborate wrapping is needed, which is a plus for many people.
Structured carriers are available in options from newborns right up to preschoolers.
Most brands are highly adjustable now and will allow the Carrier to grow with your baby from newborn to toddlerhood.
Avoid carriers that require an infant insert, as these can be hot and fiddly.
Soft Structured Buckle Carriers are simple to use and easily adjustable. They can be used for front, hip, back, and facing-out carrier positions.
Wraps:
Wraps are long pieces of fabric you wrap yourself and your baby around.
While the wraps themselves are simply wrapping yourself and your baby can be a real test.
STRETCHY WRAPS:
- Stretchy wraps are long, stretchy pieces of fabric that can be wrapped around your body and over your shoulders.
- Wraps are relatively inexpensive and very versatile. They’re perfect for young babies, and they’re cozy.
- It is important to note that stretchy wraps have a weight limit and tend to get a bit saggy or ‘Diggy’ as the baby gets bigger.
- They are generally comfortable up to about 7-8kg.
- A few of the most popular wraps are the Moby, K’Tan, Solly Baby Wrap, and the Boba.
WOVEN WRAPS:
- A woven wrap is a piece of woven fabric that ranges from 2.7m (size 2) to around 5.7m (size 8).
- There is a wide variety of options, from the fibers used to the beautiful designs available.
- Different kinds of materials will offer their features with different patterns, fibers, and each with different textures, including thin, floppy, thick, comfy, grippy, or soft.
- Woven wraps are the most versatile and long-lasting of the carriers – they can be used from birth straight past toddlerhood.
Slings:
Slings are worn over one shoulder versus over both shoulders like the other carrier types.
RING SLINGS:
- Ring Slings is a compact and straightforward style of baby carrier made from a woven fabric of about 2 meters in length.
- They have a set of rings sewn to one end, which you thread the fabric through belt style to make a loop that sits diagonally across your body.
- This type of Carrier has a slight learning curve, but after a small amount of practice, they become swift and straightforward.
- Ring slings can be either “single layer” or “double layer.”
- Single-layer slings tend to be easier to adjust.
- Double-layer slings can accommodate heavier toddlers, up to 35 lbs.
- Single-layer slings typically go up to the 25 lbs weight limit.
POUCH SLINGS:
- Pouch slings are large circles of fabric that get curved into a pouch for your baby.
- Babies sit in a deep pouch in front of your body and are in a semi-reclined position either in the pouch or on your hip.
- HotSlings, Maya Wrap, and Moby Sling are some brands you can check out if you’re interested in purchasing a sling carrier.
Mei Tais:
This style of Carrier is a traditional carrier originating from Asia.
Mei Tais are made from woven wrap material with a waistband, a back panel, and shoulder straps.
You tie the belt on, place the baby in, and then tie the shoulder straps crossed diagonally over and around your back.
These short carriers offer a snug and supportive fit for your baby.
Mei Tais don’t have buckles, making them easier to adjust for your particular body type.
Some people also find them to be more comfortable than SSCs.
Mei Tais are appropriate for babies from birth to 44 pounds depending on the Carrier.
Baby Carrier Backpacks:
Consider a baby carrier backpack if you intend to go on a hike with your baby.
This type of Carrier would make little sense for daily use, as it’s much larger and heavier than the other carriers.
But it would make sense if you’re on a mountain.
The Wirecutter extensively tested ten different hiking baby carriers. Their top pick was the Deuter Kid Comfort for the “most likely to keep both parents and kids feeling like happy campers.”
Because they test things so thoroughly, I would trust the Wirecutter on this one for my money.
This type of backpack baby carrier is a specialty item,
but suppose you’re an active, outdoorsy family. In that case, it may be worth the investment, particularly if you’d like to get your baby out on the trails.
How To Choose A Baby Carrier?
Choosing which Baby Carrier is best for you can be difficult for some parents.
Hence, I have made a small list of things that a Baby Carrier must tick off to be added to your “Buy Now” cart.
Fit:
You should always make sure that whichever Carrier you choose fits you well.
While carriers are usually adjustable, some are just made for a specific body type.
While you may be able to find a carrier that is a perfect fit for you and your partner, consider buying two carriers instead of one.
Two Carriers are recommended because you might have to adjust the straps while wearing them.
It can be confusing and time-consuming every time you wear it after them.
Carry Positions:
Make sure that the Carrier has enough carry positions so that you can carry your kid comfortably.
When kids are younger, they are advised to be put in front-facing carriers to keep an eye on them.
But you can start putting them in back/side-facing carriers as they grow older because of better neck control.
Newborn Safe:
Some carriers are better for older babies and not for newborns.
So, make sure that’s not the case with your Carrier.
The Baby Carrier must have proper neck support for your newborn.
You must read the manufacturer’s minimum age limit and weight capacity.
Weight Capacity:
A manufacturer usually specifies the weight limit on the Baby Carrier.
Make sure to read that, so you stay within the limit.
Choose a carrier with more weight limit if you think your baby is larger.
Comfort:
Comfort is essential when choosing a Baby Carrier.
Make sure it’s soft and comfortable for your baby and you whenever you buy it.
Otherwise, your baby might throw fits while in a carrier.
You also expose yourself to pain and discomfort while carrying the baby.
Weather Appropriate:
Whenever you buy a Baby Carrier, ensure it is suitable for the weather.
Some carriers don’t provide a hood to protect your child from sunlight or rain.
So, they can be used during summer or monsoon.
Similarly, the material also affects usability.
A Quick Look at the Best Baby Carriers
Best Baby Carrier Overall:
Beco Gemini Baby Carrier
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 7 pounds and 35 pounds
- Easy to put on
- Affordable
- Easy to Clean
Pros
- Safe for Newborns as well as Toddlers.
- Easy to put on
- No Back Pains
- Affordable
- Gender Neutral
Cons
- Front Pocket access is hard
- No protection from sunlight
Best Baby Carrier For Newborns:
Nuna CUDL 4-in-1 Carrier
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 8 pounds and 35 pounds
- Easy to put on
- GOTS Certified
- Easy to Clean
Pros
- Safe for Newborns as well as Toddlers.
- Easy to use
- GOTS Certified
- Breathable Cover
- Head Support
- Zippers and Magnetic Buckles
Cons
- Expensive
- Complicated while wearing on back
Best Baby Carrier For Toddlers:
Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 7 pounds and 45 pounds
- Comfortable
- Suitable for all
- Protective Shield
Pros
- Safe for Newborns as well as Toddlers.
- Includes hood for baby protection
- Extremely Comfortable
- Worn in many different ways
Cons
- Less Breathable as compared to other options
- Cumbersome while adjusting straps
Best Baby Carrier For Dads:
Colugo Baby Carrier
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 7 pounds and 33 pounds
- Comfortable
- Suitable for all
- Rich in Pockets
Pros
- Includes sunshade
- Extremely Comfortable
- Worn in many different ways
Cons
- Expensive as compared to other options
- Less weight-carrying capacity
Best Baby Carrier For Petite Parents:
Lillebaby Complete All Season
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 7 pounds and 45 pounds
- Comfortable
- Suitable for all
- Good Airflow
Pros
- Includes detachable sunshade
- Machine Washable
- Certified by International Hip Dysplasia Institute
- Worn in many different ways
Cons
- It takes time to adjust
Best Baby Carrier For Plus Size Parents:
Cybex Maira Baby Carrier
- Safe for Newborns and Toddlers
- Can carry between 8 pounds and 33 pounds
- Comfortable
- Excellent Head and Neck support
- Ergonomic Waist Belt
Pros
- Includes infant insert and storage pockets
- Excellent Back Support
- Certified by International Hip Dysplasia Institute
- Worn in many different ways
Cons
- It takes time to adjust
- It isn’t meant for everyone
Best Wrap Baby Carrier:
Solly Baby Wrap Baby Carrier
- Inexpensive
- Can carry between 8 pounds and 25 pounds
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Easy to Clean
Pros
- Easier than other warps
- Lightweight
- Soft and Breathable
- Easy to fold while traveling
Cons
- It can carry up to 25 pounds only.
Best Luxe Baby Carrier:
Artipoppe Zeitgeist Carrier
- 100% made of cotton
- Can carry between 7 pounds and 45 pounds
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Easy to Clean
Pros
- It can carry up to 45 pounds.
- Gender Neutral
- Great Build
- Adjustable
- Machine Washable
Cons
- Expensive
Best Baby Carrier For Hiking:
Osprey Poco Child Carrier
- 100% made of cotton
- Can carry between 16 pounds and 40 pounds
- Handy Kickstand
- Bulky
- Lots of zippers
Pros
- Lightweight
- UV sun protection
- Great Build
- Handy Kickstand
- A Great number of pockets for storage
Cons
- Only for babies older than six months
- Bulky
How To Tell If The Baby Is in A Safe Position?
Sometimes, parents wonder if they have placed their baby in a safe position while putting them in a Baby Carrier.
They are worried that they might have placed the baby in the wrong position, which may cause the baby to fall out.
So, to put you out of your worry, there is a solution to this problem.
There is a very helpful acronym, “TICKS.”
So, whenever you put your baby in a carrier, tick off “TICKS” and keep your baby safe in a carrier.
Tips To Keep In Mind While Using A Baby Carrier:
Conclusion:
To summarize this blog:
I hope that now you know about Baby Carriers, you choose a perfect Baby Carrier for your child without any problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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