With so many baby carriers available, it can be hard to know where to start. Wraps, slings, buckle carriers and hiking carriers all offer different benefits.
Instead of trying to find the single "best" baby carrier, it can help to think about how you plan to use it in everyday life and at what stage you want to use your carrier. Knowing how and when you plan to use the carrier can help you find the right one, however, there may be more than one carrier that suits your needs.
It's a bit like choosing shoes; you wouldn't go for a brisk walk in a pair of stiletto's, you'd wear sneakers and you wouldn't wear your coveted boots around the house or on a rainy school drop off. Carriers are the same, there isn't one carrier that is perfect for everything. Some styles are better suited to different uses, not to mention that carriers can have very different looks from fashionable to sporty.
So, if you think about your lifestyle and when you want to use your carrier, you'll have an easier decision in choosing the right style. Whether you're looking for a soft, cosy carrier for the newborn stage at home or something more supportive for light workouts or long walks, there is a style for every use. Many families find that having more than one carrier is more suited to their needs, especially if they're an active family or want something specifically newborn friendly. Understanding your lifestyle can make choosing the right baby carrier much easier.
If you're new to babywearing, you might also find our guide to babywearing with a newborn helpful.
A Cosy Carrier for the Newborn Months
In the early weeks and months, many parents simply want a carrier that is super comfy and allows them to keep their baby close while still having their hands free.
Newborns often find babywearing calming because it mimics the warmth and movement they experienced in the womb, plus they can hear their mothers heartbeat when they are worn on mum’s chest. Being carried can help parents manage everyday tasks and promote bonding for Dads with their newborns.
Carriers that are often popular for the newborn stage include:
Stretchy wraps
These soft fabric wraps are tied around your body and hold your baby snugly against your chest. They are often loved for the newborn months because they feel soft and supportive and you can easily sit down whilst wearing the carrier. They are also comfy enough to wear all day and just pop your newborn in and out when needed.
Hybrid carriers
These provide similar closeness to a wrap but can be slightly quicker and easier to put on. Many families use this type of carrier mainly during the first few months, when babies are small and often happiest being held close. These require less learning than a stretchy wrap and will generally last a bit longer in terms of their weight range.
A Carrier for Getting About & About Everyday
As babies grow, and parents want to get out more, many start looking for a carrier that works well for daily routines, allowing them to get out and about quickly and easily. This might include:
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Walking the dog
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School drop-off
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Grocery shopping
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Trips to the park
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Settling a tired baby on the go
For these situations, many families choose a soft structured baby carrier, which uses buckles and adjustable straps to help distribute your baby’s weight across your hips and shoulders. These are usually more supportive as your baby gets heavier. This style of carrier usually offers multiple carry positions, such as back carrying or child facing outwards.
The Half Buckle is an excellent alternative, with easy buckle waist and tie straps. These avoid the fixed position that straps buckle onto the carrier and may be more comfortable for some people.
Buckle carriers come in a wide range of sizes and styles, from aesthetic fashion styled carriers to more traditional carriers with adjustable panels and padded straps. Take care to choose one that genuinely fits from newborn if you are wanting to use it with a small baby, as many one size fits all buckle carriers are not a good fit until 8-12 weeks.
