When looking for a baby carrier, it’s important to find one that is comfortable for both you and your baby. It’s also important to find a carrier that is durable and easy to use.
There are many different types of carriers for baby being sold on the market today, so you’ll want to do your research to find the best one for you and your family.
With so many brands to choose from, buying the best baby carrier can feel like a daunting task. Here’s what to watch for when shopping for a carrier that will safely support your precious bundle.
Ergonomic design. Avoid carriers where the baby’s legs fall straight down, and choose one that allows a baby’s legs to be in an “M” position, with their knees higher than their bottom. This will prevent hip dysplasia, which is a dislocation of the hip socket with potentially serious effects. To ensure you’re buying from a brand that promotes healthy hip development, check out this list of approved hip-healthy products from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
Baby’s needs. There are many types of carriers. You need to choose one that best fits your baby’s needs. A baby wrap carrier has one piece of fabric tied around the body to secure the baby, while a sling comes with two rings that will secure the baby’s position. While both are great for newborns, if you want a carrier that provides a lot of support and structure, look into soft structured carriers. For a variety of stylish and adjustable options, you can explore the Wildbird baby brand, for instance, which can also offer carriers that prioritize both comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Comfortable to wear. It’s not only the baby’s comfort that should be considered, but the caregiver’s, too. Look for padded shoulder straps and a wide waist strap that will distribute your baby’s weight evenly and will keep the pressure off the shoulders and back.
Adjustable. Instead of buying a one-size carrier, consider buying one that’s adjustable to accommodate the changing size and weight of your baby. Tula baby carriers, such as the ones in their Explore and Free-to-Grow collections, are designed for long-term babywearing and will carry your baby from infancy to toddlerhood. Adjustable carriers should also have movable straps to accommodate multiple wearers who have different body sizes.
Follows the T.I.C.K.S. rule. Before making your decision, look for the best infant carrier that meets all of the following criteria:
- Tight enough to hug your baby
- In view at all times
- Close enough to kiss
- Keeps baby’s chin off the chest
- Support baby’s back
Ease of use. Make sure to get a baby carrier that is easy to put on and remove, and practical for day-to-day use. Ideally, it should have buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten. Plus, babies and toddlers make a lot of mess, so choose one that you can quickly throw in the washing machine. It should also be lightweight and easy to pack and carry, especially if you’re always on the move and have to take your baby with you.
Material. Structured carriers come in a variety of fabrics. Choose a material that is soft and breathable, and can be used in different seasons. Linen and hemp are great to use all year round, while mesh is great to use in hotter climates.
Stylish. Most brands offer newborn carriers in an array of colors and patterns. When choosing a style, look for something that the other caregivers in your household will be comfortable wearing.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with a supportive and flexible carrier from an established carrier brand to bring you and your child even closer together.
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