For busy parents, a baby carrier can be a lifesaver. While you could go with a traditional style or even one that serves as both car seat and baby carrier, a number of other options may fit your needs better. The challenge is that with so many different styles now on the market, choosing is tough. To help, we’ve provided a quick rundown of some baby carrier styles to consider.
Traditional
Typically, the most common type of baby carrier is the front-pack. With this design, the carrier can be adjusted for the height and size of the parent, making this a nice option for both moms and dads. In addition, the traditional front-pack allows you to face your baby toward you or away from you. The only downfall to this type of baby carrier is that they often weigh as much as 20 pounds.
Backpack
Another favorite option for a baby carrier is the backpack, especially parents who enjoy camping, hiking, or just spending time outdoors. With this, the design is actually like that of a backpack with the exception that it accommodates a baby. The frame is usually made from heavy-duty metal, the pads are extra soft, and the backpack is convenient. Other features for this type of baby carrier include comfortable seating and sunshades. Keep in mind that generally, the backpack style of baby carrier will only handle up to 40 pounds.
Padded Sling
With the padded sling, the edge of the shoulder straps is much more comfortable for the parents. You will find this baby carrier lightweight, easy to handle, and available in wonderful colors and fabrics. Another benefit is the ability to carry the baby at the check, on the back, in a cradle position, or even on the hip. The one consideration is that some parents complain the straps while comfortable, are bulky.
Unpadded Sling
This baby carrier is the same as the padded sling with the exception that the straps are not padded. Additionally, you want to look at various options for the unpadded sling carrier in that not all offer multiple positions. Then, both the padded and unpadded sling baby carrier usually has a weight limitation of around 35 to 40 pounds.
Asian
Coming up in popularity is the Asian style baby carrier, which is sold in many beautiful Oriental fabrics. In this case, the carrier is tied on with long straps, each attached to the corners of the actual carrier. You can carry your baby in the front or the back, facing forward or backward. Typically, the Asian carrier is much too restrictive for an older baby but for newborns and small babies, it is an excellent solution.