Baby Carriers — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison

The best baby carriers are designed to enable parents to keep their little one close while still having the freedom to get on with the million and one things they need to do. By offering multiple carrying positions suited to your growing baby’s stage and age of development, they can be an option to replace your stroller altogether. When choosing your perfect carrier consider the following: 

  • Weight range.
  • Different carrying positions.
  • Breathable materials.
  • Ease of putting it on and taking it off.
  • Level of support to evenly distribute weight on your body.
Ergobaby-Omni-360

The Ergobaby is both lightweight, durable and adjustable. Designed for all-day use, it offers padded straps, support for your back and includes mesh fabric to keep both you and baby at a comfortable temperature. With four wearing positions, it’s suitable for either your newborn or your toddler. 

  • Includes an ‘essentials’ storage bag.
  • Great back support with cross over straps and lumbar support. 
  • Roll away hood with UPF 50+ protection.

Product Rating: 4.9/5

Baby Carriers Buying Guide

Baby carriers introduce you to the world of babywearing and provide you with an alternative to the stroller.

Making the decision whether to use this mode of ‘baby transport’ shouldn’t be too difficult. However, narrowing down one that’s going to be right for you, could involve a little more legwork. 

Let me explain all. 

Do You Need a Baby Carrier?

Granted, you could probably manage without one. However, it’s an extremely useful piece of kit to have in your arsenal. Personally, I only used a carrier with my two youngest children, yet, I wish I’d discovered them with my older three, my life would have been so much easier. 

A baby carrier offers you the ability to keep your baby close while still being able to get done what you need to do during your day, from cleaning to putting in the laundry or even preparing food. It also enables you to explore places with your baby that are not accessible in a stroller.

Baby carriers can be used in a range of ways such as:

  • Comforting and reassuring a young baby.
  • Keeping your tiny tot close.
  • They’re great if you love hitting the trails — not all routes are stroller accessible.

Pros of Using a Baby Carrier

  • Strengthens the bond between parent and baby.
  • Aid your baby’s development physically and emotionally.
  • It may decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • Allows moms to breastfeed while on the go.
  • Promotes neural, gastrointestinal and respiratory health.
  • It frees up your hands, so you can carry on with everyday life. 

Cons of Using a Baby Carrier

  • Wrap-style carriers can be extremely difficult to master.
  • The huge amount of choice can be a little daunting to a newbie.
  • Slings are not great for shopping — if you have lots of heavy bags to carry.
  • If you have multiple babies — baby carriers are not the most suitable option. 
  • While out and about, you don’t have a secure place to put your baby down if you need a bathroom break for example.
  • There is the safety issue — in that, you’re more likely to hurt them in a carrier if you fell, tripped or slipped.

What Types of Baby Carriers Are There?

Soft Carriers

A soft carrier means that it’s soft structured and has nothing added that helps to hold its shape. Typically, they feature padded shoulder straps and a waistband that’s also padded, which can be fastened by buckles. The remaining fabric creates a pouch where you can place your baby. 

The panel where your baby sits needs to be wide enough to support their hips and legs in the recommended ‘M’ position from knee to hip.

Soft carriers tend to be highly adjustable so that they can allow the wearer to find the most comfortable fit for them and the baby. One of the great things about this type of carrier is that many come with a variety of carrying positions — from front, back, and even hip.

Some models offer an adjustable sitting area in the width, allowing you to find the best and safest seating position for your baby. For those soft carriers with these kinds of adjustments, it means that one carrier could see you through from newborn to toddlerhood.

The vast majority of soft carriers can be used for newborns but some may require a newborn infant insert. However, bear in mind, that these inserts can make carriers bulky and hot.

What’s more, if you’re an always-on-the-move kind of parent, you need to consider that a structured baby carrier is often far bulkier than a wrap or sling type. This means if you want to switch between stroller and carrier while you’re out, it’s unlikely to fit into a diaper bag for transporting.

Slings/Wraps

These are the most traditional types of carriers, and although they’re simple in design they can be very complicated for someone new to babywearing. A wrap is a lengthy piece of material that you quite literally, wrap around your body and your baby.

By tying the ends together you make a structure to place your baby in that’s cozy and snug. There are a few different ways to tie the wrap and yes it can seem a little tricky and complicated in the beginning, but it gets easier with practice.

There are a wide variety of different wraps available, some are longer or shorter depending on your size and height. Materials used include cotton, linen, wool, or other fabrics that are highly breathable for keeping your baby cool and comfortable. 

As the name suggests, stretchy wraps are made out of stretchy fabric like cotton or knit jersey. These are ideal for newborns and babywearing trainees. With this type of carrier, you wrap it around yourself and stretch it over your little one.

Woven wraps are made from materials like wool, linen, cotton or hemp. These fabrics make the wrap more sturdy and are recommended for older babies and toddlers. They’re also great for wearing babies on your back.

And, if you need an impromptu babywearing session on the run, you’ll have no trouble popping one of these in your diaper bag or stroller basket. 

Ring Slings

A ring sling is also one piece of fabric, generally 6 feet in length and possesses two rings at one end. To fasten this type of sling you need to feed the free end through one ring, and then under the other. This allows you to easily adjust it to fit your body and your baby. The sling will unfasten itself but your baby’s weight prevents the rings from slipping.

A ring sling creates a pouch of material that goes from one shoulder to the opposite hip and allows you to ‘wear’ your baby either on your hip or in front of you.

These types of carriers are not made of stretchy fabrics. They’re usually made of either cotton or linen.

What to Look For When Choosing A Baby Carrier

Here are a few top tips to help you find the perfect baby carrier for you and your little one.

Longevity

If you’re looking for a carrier that’s going to last longer than just the newborn stage, a higher weight limit is necessary, and a front-facing position. However, if you only intend on using one for the first few months, you may want to consider one that creates that warm cozy environment.

Comfort and Support

Think about the comfort of you and your baby. The seat of any carrier should allow your baby’s legs to be in the ‘M’ healthy hip position. For yourself, you need to consider how much padding and support there is on both your shoulders and your back. And, if you anticipate wearing your baby for long periods, you also need to consider whether you need the extra support of a waistband.

Fit

If you plan on sharing the carrying with another person such as your partner, you need a carrier suitable for both of your body types. Some carriers offer this with easily adjustable buckles, while others have to be sized to one person’s body perfectly. Therefore, taking away the option for multi-person use.

Temperature Control

Consider the time of year that you’ll be using your carrier and the season your baby is born in. For the warmer months, a lightweight carrier with breathable mesh or fabric is most suitable. In contrast, if you’re going to be using your baby carrier during the colder months, one made from heavier materials won’t be such an issue. 

Care

Yes, this is super essential. Babies are very messy little people — ’accidents’ can and do happen. Ideally, you want a baby carrier that’s machine washable. However, not all carriers are — check the care labels.

Our Picks of the Top Baby Carriers

So that you can find the best baby carrier for your individual needs, I’ve put together my favorites for you — covering the different types mentioned above.

Soft Baby Carriers

TBG – Mens Tactical Baby Carrier

For dads who want to share the baby-carrying duties, this could be one of the best baby carriers for men. The military-style TBG carrier is made from 600D tactical polyester and features a removable washable liner — helping you clean up those spit ups without fuss. It can also be operated by one person, which is super important when your partner isn’t around.

The TBG is suitable as a newborn carrier, with a weight range from 8 to 33 pounds. Your baby can also face inwards or outwards, depending on their age and developmental stage.

This carrier has easy to adjust UTX buckles, so that it can grow with your baby, and features a wide base — offering sufficient support and positioning for your little one’s hips.

The TBG is a lightweight baby carrier, weighing less than 2 pounds, and features an open back to help you regulate your body temperature — it can get hot and sticky when you’re carrying a baby! This open-back also allows the baby carrier to be paired with other TBG accessories, carabiners and the Tactical diaper bag to offer you the ease of access.

TBG-Mens-Tactical-Baby-Carrier

Product Rating: 4.0/5

Functionality: 80%
Design: 80%
Price 80%

PROS

  • Inward and outward-facing.
  • Provides the correct position and support for the baby’s hips.
  • Lightweight and versatile.
  • Sturdy back cross strap.
  • Four neutral colors available.

CONS

  • Not the best baby carrier for large-framed dads.

Baby Tula Explore Baby Carrier

The Baby Tula Explore is suitable for babies from 7 to 45 pounds, which means your baby shouldn’t outgrow this carrier for quite some time.

Made for use from birth to around 4 years old — permitting the carrier to ‘grow’ with your baby. It offers six different positions — forward-facing, front carry infant, baby and toddler, as well as back carry for baby and toddler. 

Featuring dual padded shoulder straps, this ensures you’re completely comfortable while carrying your little one or toddler. The waistband can also be adjusted from 27 to 57 inches, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.

This baby carrier includes a storage pocket in the waistband for you to keep a few essentials such as keys or your cell phone at arm’s reach.

Baby Tula Explore Discover

Product Rating: 4.8/5

Functionality: 95%
Design: 95%
Price 90%

PROS

  • Offers multiple carrying positions.
  • Adjustable parent waistband.
  • Includes a removable hood.
  • Available in a range of colors and patterns.
  • Infant neck support.

CONS

  • Padded shoulder straps could feel bulky to some.
  • Some may find the material too warm.

BABYBJORN Baby Carrier Mini

The BabyBjorn mini is a small and easy-to-use carrier that can be popped on for those often essential babywearing sessions. No-fuss, no working out how to wrap it around, just straight on and your infant soothed.

This carrier has adjustable buckles that allow you to quickly unclip the entire front section for you to lift your sleeping newborn out with ease. What’s more, the mini is soft and flexible, made of three materials, which are delicate on your newborn’s skin and also breathable to keep them cool and comfortable.

It’s easy to wash as well as fast drying, making it the perfect choice for a newborn — we all know they can have unpredictable tummies and accidents will definitely happen!

BABYBJÖRN-Baby-Carrier

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Functionality: 90%
Design: 90%
Price 90%

PROS

  • One of the best newborn baby carriers.
  • Small and easy to use.
  • Combines three different materials.
  • Two positions — front facing in or out.
  • Front section unclips — easy to remove a sleeping newborn.

CONS

  • More back support would be an improvement.
  • Lacks a waist strap to help distribute the baby’s weight evenly.

Ergobaby Omni 360

The Ergobaby Omni 360 is one of the top rated baby carriers out there.

It can be used in a range of carrying positions including, forward, hip, inward and back, making it a versatile baby carrier. The forward facing baby carrier option is great as your baby gets older and becomes more interested in exploring the world around them.

The Ergobaby is ‘newborn ready,’ meaning that no insert is required and it’s also super-easy to switch from inward to forward-facing. All these features make it even more simple to set up and use.

Its ergonomic baby carrier design is made for all-day wear with extra padded shoulder straps that cross over at the back for added comfort. It also comes with a lumbar support waist belt for the highest level of lower back support. 

The carrier is made from a lightweight mesh, ensuring that you and your baby can wear it all day long and remain cool and comfortable.

The Ergobaby Omni comes with a fully adjustable fit and includes a large storage pocket for stashing all your essentials within easy reach. It also boasts a UPF 50+ tuck away hood for you to be able to breastfeed and protect your baby from the wind and sun.

Ergobaby-Omni-360

Product Rating: 4.9/5

Functionality: 95%
Design: 95%
Price 95%

PROS

  • Breathable — ensures baby is comfortable.
  • Hood includes UPF 50+ protection.
  • Detachable storage pouch.
  • Most comfortable baby carrier.
  • One of the top baby carriers.
  • Breastfeed-friendly.

CONS

  • Some may find the shoulder padding bulky.
  • Design doesn’t allow folding when not in use.

Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Carrier

The Infantino 4-in-1 baby carrier is suitable for little ones weighing 8 to 32 pounds and easily converts from facing in to facing out, making it quick and easy to get on and use for lengthy periods. It offers a total of four front facing baby carrier and back baby carrier options — three and one respectively.

Compared to others, it’s one of the cheap baby carriers on the market, but don’t be fooled by its price tag. The Infantino is fully adjustable — shoulder straps and waist belt can be altered to offer a decent fit for a range of body types. These are also padded, which should provide sufficient comfort for mom and dad. 

Furthermore, the seat also has two positions, enabling the carrier to support your developing baby.

Infantino-Flip-4-in-1-Carrier

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Functionality: 87%
Design: 90%
Price 89%

PROS

  • Lightweight and breathable.
  • Versatile allowing for plenty of adjustment for both small and larger babies.
  • Four positions, including baby back carrier style.
  • Best affordable baby carrier.
  • Machine washable.

CONS

  • No back support.

Wrap/Sling Baby Carriers

Boba Wrap Baby Carrier

The Boba Wrap is long enough to be a suitable option for a range of body types and is one of the best wraps for plus-size parents. It provides an ergonomic seat for your baby while evenly distributing their weight across your body making it a perfect newborn sling carrier.

This wrap is a simple-to-tie carrier — even if you’re new to babywearing, after a couple of test runs, you should be able to swiftly set up the wrap and get your baby into their snug baby pouch. 

The cotton/spandex fabric combination means it’s both soft and stretchy. It’s also fully machine washable and can be popped in the dryer — making it easy to clean while allowing you to keep your baby close to you.

Boba-Wrap-Baby-Carrier

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Functionality: 85%
Design: 90%
Price 89%

PROS

  • Ergonomic seat for your baby providing knee to knee support.
  • One-size-fits-all design.
  • Fully machine washable.
  • Best baby sling.
  • Easy to tie — even for a first-time baby wearer.
  • Suitable for plus-size parents.

CONS

  • Petite parents may find length of material too much for them.
  • Some may struggle to wrap outside the home.

Baby K’tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier

While the Baby K’tan is considered a wrap, it does actually have some structure. This makes it even easier and quicker to use than a regular sling-style carrier. You can take it straight from the box, put it on like you would do a t-shirt, and you’re ready to go — ideal for parents who are taking their first ‘baby’ steps into wrap style carriers.

Suitable from newborn to 35 pounds, allowing it to be versatile and removing the need to purchase another wrap — as it should see you through your babywearing journey. 

This wrap comes with five different carrying positions such as explore, hug, adventure, hip and kangaroo baby carrier position.

It’s available in a range of sizes to ensure the correct fit for you. And, you also have a great choice of colors and patterns, making it virtually impossible not to find one you love.

Although the Baby K’tan is made from 100 percent cotton, it’s not an organic baby carrier. However, it’s still a breathable material — keeping you and your baby cool during summer days or in warmer climates.

Baby-K'tan-Original-Baby-Wrap-Carrier,-Infant-and-Child-Sling

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Functionality: 85%
Design: 90%
Price 89%

PROS

  • Available in a variety of sizes.
  • Fully machine washable.
  • No wrapping required — use straight from the box.
  • Ideal newborn baby sling.
  • Five different carrying positions.

CONS

  • Lacks lower back support.
  • Sizing guidelines could be better.

Acrabros Baby Wrap Carrier

For moms and dads who are constantly on the move, the Acrabros wrap includes its own travel bag for convenient pack away storage. It’s suitable for children from 8 to 35 pounds, permitting use from newborn without the need for any additional inserts.

It’s made from a soft, breathable material that’s great for your baby’s delicate skin while also ensuring they stay cool and comfortable. And, the double stitching provides greater strength and durability, plus the ability to ensure that your baby is kept in the safe hip shape at all times. 

As this is a one-size-fits-all baby carrier, it should be suitable for most mom and dad body shapes. The Acrabros is also available in a variety of colors, making it a great gender neutral baby carrier.

I’d suggest this is one of the best infant baby carriers that is unstructured and yet still offers you both versatility and convenience.

Acrabros-Baby-Wrap-Carrier

Product Rating: 4.4/5

Functionality: 85%
Design: 85%
Price 90%

PROS

  • Material is breathable and soft.
  • Available in a variety of colors.
  • Fully machine washable.
  • Allows for breastfeeding. 
  • Great for traveling —storage bag included.

CONS

  • Fabric could be lighter.
  • Some may find the tie learning technique tricky for this wrap.

Kid’s N Such 4 in 1 Baby Carrier Wrap

The Kid’s N Such baby carrier offers you two different options — use as a traditional wrap and thanks to the two rings provided, it also turns into a sling wrap. A great example of an over the shoulder baby holder, literally.

What’s more, you can begin using this carrier before your little one arrives — by wearing it as a belly band to support your bump. And, if you’re breastfeeding, it will provide you with a degree of privacy with its nursing cover abilities.

It’s suitable for babies weighing from 8 to 35 pounds and offers a variety of carrying positions from sling carry to front facing inward and the ‘dad’ carry or the baby hip carrier style. This allows the wrap to be used by multiple carers and at different ages and stages of your baby’s development.

The 4 in 1 is also fully machine washable and easy to dry, making it a practical choice for parents who get out and about with their children.

Kids-Such-4-in-1

Product Rating: 4.3/5

Functionality: 85%
Design: 85%
Price 90%

PROS

  • Soft material.
  • Great for carrying babies and older children.
  • Machine washable.
  • Best sling for newborn.
  • Versatile — baby carrier sling, wrap, belly band and cover.

CONS

  • Fabric choice may not be the best for warmer weather.
  • Some parents may find it difficult to adjust — due to the material thickness.

Conclusion

Being a new parent, your newborn is going to want to be close to you at all times. But, unless you have a battalion of helpers, day-to-day tasks aren’t going to go away. This is where a baby carrier can provide you with the best of both worlds.

They can offer the snug and cozy environment to settle your little one while freeing up your hands — so you can go about your business. Plus, when you’re on the go, they can also be more practical than wheeling a stroller around.

Before deciding on one of the many available, first decide on the carrier design — structured, wrap or sling. Next, consider the comfort and support factor, how adjustable-friendly it is, when you intend to wear your baby and how long you would like to have the option of babywearing.

And, most importantly, ensure that out of the best baby carriers, it’s the right choice for you and your baby!

Baby Carrier FAQs

What Are the Best Baby Carriers?

It’s difficult to pick a one-size-fits-all baby carrier that will be best for everyone. It does depend on the age and stage of development of your baby, your size and height, and what kinds of activities you’ll be using the carrier for.

However, if I were to choose one, the Ergobaby Omni 360 would be my favorite. 

Are Baby Carriers Safe for Newborns?

Babies under 4 months are unable to support their own head — their neck muscles need time to gain strength. Hence, if you do wish to use a carrier you must ensure it’s suitable for the age and weight range of your baby and that it provides sufficient head and neck support. 

At What Age Should a Baby Be Carried With a Baby Carrier?

Most front baby carriers can be used from newborn and then up to around 6 months. This does depend on the weight restrictions placed on each individual baby carrier as they are all different.

Back carriers or those carriers that offer the back carry position can be used once your baby is showing strong neck and head control and can sit independently — this is usually around 6 months of age.

Can a One Month Old Use a Carrier?

Yes, they can. However, if you’re going to use one before they’re able to support their head — ensure it meets weight range suitability and includes adequate and stable support for this area.

Do Baby Carriers Hurt Babies Hips?

There is limited research, but it’s advised to avoid any carrier that lets your baby’s legs dangle and doesn’t keep their hips and legs in the recommended ‘M’ position. This is the optimal position for healthy hip development — thighs flexed and the hips in a bent position.

Can You Wear Baby Too Much?

No. You can’t spoil a baby by wearing them too much. In fact, experts indicate that carrying your baby more often reduces fussiness and crying.