Baby Carriers Buying Guide
A baby carrier is a great addition to any parent’s baby gear. However, a baby carrier isn’t much use if it doesn’t fit your child or doesn’t allow you to wear it to get the job done. Let our best baby carriers buying guide show you what to look for when shopping.
Carrier Types
There are three main types of baby carriers you can choose from. While each works in essentially the same way (holding your baby in the bassinet around your torso and hips), they are designed slightly differently to give you different options for movement.
The first type of baby carrier is the Wrap. baby carrier wraps are one of the most common carriers you can find online. They are often made of just one or two long sections of fabric. They are usually tied very tightly, keeping your baby very close to your chest and torso. These are usually very comfortable and allow your arms to be very free while you work. They are best for babies and newborns.
The second type is a soft structured carrier. Soft structured baby carriers are more defined, have more straps and more durable construction. These distribute most of the baby’s weight to your hips. The final fit is very snug and comfortable. Most of these carriers offer multiple seating positions so you can continue to use it as your baby grows into a toddler.
Finally, backpacks are the third type of baby carrier. These are heavier, but have extra padding so you can carry your child on your back. These are great for older toddlers and are best for children who can lift their own heads.
Carrier Size / Versatility
Please keep the overall carrier size in mind before purchasing. As your child becomes a toddler, use a carrier with adjustable shoulder straps or one that has enough room for your baby to grow. Smaller carriers won’t last as long because your baby will grow out of the restraint and you’ll have to buy a new carrier sooner rather than later. Essentially, if you plan to use it for years to come, buy a larger baby carrier with more adjustable straps.
Sitting position
The ideal baby carrier will have several different sitting positions. Keeping your child in the exact same position or sitting in the same direction may cause discomfort for you and your baby. Baby carriers that allow your child to move around a little or adjust the sitting position are a good choice. They usually last longer and have extra padding that allows your child to move around without burdening the restraint or adding too much weight on your shoulders.
Comfortable
Of course, a baby carrier is vital to your comfort and your baby’s comfort. An uncomfortable carrier can cause your child to squirm and struggle all the time. A carrier that you feel uncomfortable in will be difficult to use when you need to get something done while holding your baby.
If it comes with extra padding or weight adjustment, it is worth it to buy a more expensive baby carrier. A comfortable baby carrier can be used in a variety of situations, and you can complete necessary chores more reliably than with an uncomfortable baby carrier. In the long run, buying a comfortable baby carrier is much better than buying a cheap, uncomfortable baby carrier.
Breathability
A good baby carrier should give you plenty of breathing room. In some baby carriers, adjustable straps allow you to personalize the breathing space you need based on your child’s weight or position. In any case, all baby carriers need to be sized and designed to provide enough room for your chest to expand. This is especially important if you plan to use the baby carrier frequently. The inability to breathe will prevent you from actually using the baby carrier as intended.
Ease of use
Finally, try to find a carrier that is quick and easy to use. This means finding a baby carrier with adjustable straps that are easy to put on and take off. Some of the best carriers will have buckles or straps that are easy to secure and unfasten. We recommend always choosing these carriers over tie-on only carriers, as they take less time to outfit and undo.
