The world of baby carriers can be overwhelming. There are just so many! So many colors, so many sizes and shapes, back carries, front carries….
Here are five ways to help you make a decision about a baby carrier:
1. Why do you need a baby carrier?
Is it to go hiking with your little one? Do chores around the house with your baby on your back or chest? Think about how you will use your carrier. If you’re hoping to use the sling as a nursing accessory, then a sling-style carrier may work best for easy access and coverage. If you’d like something simple to slip on and go hiking, then a soft structured baby carrier or a mei tai may be your best choice.
2. How old is your baby?
Tiny babies have very little head control. While many slings are good for newborns and toddlers alike, newborns need a sling that supports their head, and they also need one that can be used in a front carrying position. Very new babies often enjoy curling up in a pouch sling, or they may want to be held tight against someone’s chest in a wrap. As babies get older, they want to look out and see the world around them from the safety of mom’s chest or hip, and a mei tai or soft structured carrier allows you to support a baby’s head while allowing the baby to wave her arms and legs and get a good view. Older babies and toddlers like slings that allow them to go up and down with ease, so a ring sling is a good choice for shorter trips.
Weight is also a factor. Some carriers are suitable for babies up to 25 lbs, others for 35 lbs, and others for up to 60 lbs. Consider how long you plan to use your baby carrier.
3. What is most comfortable for you?
Try on different baby carriers if you can. Some baby carriers are very much suited to a person’s body size. For example, pouch slings require specific height and chest measurements to ensure that they fit properly. Other carriers like the soft structured carriers and the adjustable ring sling are somewhat adjustable, while some like the wrap or mei tai are infinitely adjustable.
Play with the carrier and see how baby sits. Where does the weight fall? Does the carrier feel good on your shoulders and your back? Is there enough support for the weight? Where are the baby’s legs? Is the waist strap comfortable and wide enough? You’ll be wearing your carrier a lot, so you want a comfortable fit.
4. Who will use the baby carrier?
While a baby carrier doesn’t need to be the ultimate fashion statement, it is a good idea to make sure that all of those who wear it will enjoy the look and feel of the carrier. Most commercially-available carriers come in bold primary colors or black. Many also come in a variety of beautiful prints, from tie-dyed pastels to flowers to skull tattoos. Choose a carrier that is versatile enough to suit the people who will use it.
5. Which features are essential, and which ones are optional?
Do you travel light, with just your house keys? Do you plan to have baby nap a lot in the carrier? Think about what features are particularly useful to you, and look for carriers with those options. If you plan to use the carrier outdoors a lot, also think about how baby will be able to snuggle under the cover of an umbrella or tuck into the carrier while in snow and rain gear.
With a little bit of research, babywearing can be a fun and comfortable experience for all involved. Enjoy the portability that a good sling brings!