Keeping Baby Close With The Best Baby Carriers (2020 Guide)
Trust me when I say: the right baby carrier can make all the difference.
Between comfort, support, safety, and shielding your baby from the elements, some are much better than others.
I remember feeling overwhelmed as I looked through what seemed like endless pages of carriers when making my registry online. They all looked great!
But, after I started reading reviews and familiarizing myself with key features, I realized that they all just weren’t so similar.
So allow me to take the guesswork out of all this for you!
Read on to learn about how you can choose the best baby carrier, as well as specific ones I recommend and all the different forms they come in.
Why You Need a Baby Carrier
A baby carrier just makes life easier when you have a baby. Enough said!
It leaves you hands free, which is important if you need to tend to other children or even push around a stroller.
It also allows you to bond with your baby by being close to them, rather than holding them. When you use a baby carrier, it’s literally like your baby is a part of you.
Carrying a baby also tends to cut down on crying, especially out in public places, because the baby is pacified. They long for that comfort, security, and nurturing that their mother provides.
And, when they are placed in a car seat carrier or stroller, they often lack what they need.
An added bonus of using a carrier? Your baby can hear your heartbeat, which is a sound that is all too familiar to them.
This will help your baby feel happier when being toted around, but also at east and more apt to nap since the sound is so soothing.
Another benefit of using a carrier is that it assists with breastfeeding—especially away from home.
It encourages proper posture when feeding, and some babies like to be moved around while being fed from their mother.
When Do You Need a Baby Carrier?
Your baby carrier should be waiting for you (washed and all) as soon as you get home from the hospital.
You can begin to wear your baby immediately. In fact, it’s recommended since your baby is so used to being scrunched up and compact. Any other position or device can sometimes be quite scary for them.
Some baby carriers are more appropriate for a newborn, while others are better for older babies (and even toddlers in some cases).
Some moms use a baby carrier only when they are away from their home.
It can help you get groceries, go for walks, enjoy an outdoor event, or is just useful and convenient when traveling and taking a vacation.
Other moms prefer to use a carrier when they are at home.
After all, cooking, cleaning, and outdoor maintenance is a must, so a carrier helps make doing these chores not only possible, but pleasant.
Different Types of Baby Carriers
Now that you know when to get a carrier, and why to have one (or two) on hand, here are the different types you can choose from.
Each descriptor will help you decide which you think would best fit your needs, lifestyle, and personal preference.
Structured Carriers
Structured carriers offer a lot of support for a baby, and are comfortable to wear for mom because they feature ergonomic straps.
- Provides essential closeness and contact to help you bond with your new baby
- Two safe and ergonomic carrying positions: baby facing-in and baby facing-out
The carrier itself provides carrying options and is rather rigid, ensuring that the baby is positioned safely and securely, while being propped up and fully supported.
Structured carriers often come with an insert to use with younger babies that can be removed over time.
These carriers also grow with your baby and have adjustable straps for everyone’s comfort.
Baby Wraps
Baby wraps are basically a very long piece of fabric that you tie and knot around yourself, which helps you make a pouch on your chest, hip, or back so your baby can sit
in it.
- Simple, no-guess tying instructions and just one size make this wrap your GO-TO BABY CARRIER for the first three months of parenthood <3 It was the first of its kind and the simplicity of the idea has kept moms and babies together for 10 years.
- Stretchy and SOFT, machine washable fabric that will keep your baby close. So much easier to clean than a stroller or carseat! You can machine wash and dry this wrap, making life just a little easier for new moms.
Its strong fabric usually gets positioned across your shoulders and also your torso.
It helps to evenly distribute your baby’s weight across important points on your body, like your shoulder and hips.
It has virtually nothing to secure it with (no clips, rings, clasps, buckles), so many parents feel that wraps are the softest, purest, and most comfortable carriers to wear for both parties.
Generally, a wrap is used on newborns all the way up to 18 months or so, depending on your older baby’s height and weight.
Baby Slings
A sling is a piece of cloth that supports your child’s entire body while wearing them.
- Made with beautiful 100% cotton, hand-loomed, breathable fabric and with top quality aluminum SlingRings. For babies 8 – 35 lbs.
- Fair trade and individually handwoven with plant based dyes in India so each wrap is beautiful and unique.
They can be worn in a variety of ways, but generally, slings go across the shoulder and are secured with a ring (which is totally adjustable).
Slings aren’t usually padded, and they can accommodate a small infant, or a small toddler!
Mei-Tais
A Mei-Tai is a carrier that is buckle-free.
It wraps and ties around you, which allows for a custom fit for your baby, and your body.
- Carry children from 8-36 pound / 3.6-16.3 kgs
- 3 ways to carry: facing-in, hip-hugger and backpack
It’s generally flexible, so it grows and changes as your baby does.
It offers ergonomic support and many have a built in seat, that allows for a variety of carrying positions. Some offer padding, some do not.
Mei-Tais have been around for centuries, and today’s modern version even has built in features like a hood, for protection from the elements.
How Many Baby Carriers Do You Need?
One carrier will get the job done, but two is preferred!
This way, you can always have a back up around (moms are always prepared, right?), or you can even keep one in your partner’s vehicle since any member of the family can carry the baby.
Also, carriers do need to get washed from time to time, so a spare is helpful and doesn’t leave you without one.
Features to Look for in a Baby Carrier
Some features can set one carrier apart from another.
Here are a few that you should keep in mind when shopping or registering for one:
Getting Used to Wearing a Carrier
A carrier can take some time to get used to wearing, regardless of the kind you choose.
So, it’s smart to watch online tutorials, read directions, and practice, practice, practice before your little one arrives, or you leave the house with one for the first time.
I remember thinking that my structured carrier would be a no brainer to get on, and my first shopping excursion to the grocery store with my son would be a piece of cake.
Then, there I was in the parking lot in the middle of December, freezing and cursing the carrier since I just couldn’t figure out how to get it on with my baby in my arms.
Needless to say, it was not successful, I turned around and drove home, and practice for what seemed to be like an hour in front of a mirror before I got it right.
You can practice with a doll or stuffed animal at home, or just wear one around to get used to how the carrier feels in order to help you decide if you are actually comfortable, or if you need to swap it for a different kind or brand.
Safety and Comfort Tips
Safety and comfort is a must of any carrier.
Here are a few ways how you can ensure that both parties are totally cozy, happy, and secure:
Best Baby Carrier Overall
The Tula Ergonomic Carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) is built with ergonomics in mind, but it’s also constructed to provide you and your baby with versatility.
Its support and seating makes it possible to use it as a front and a back carrier, while extra features like a removable hood can provide you and your baby with extra privacy and protection from the elements.
What we like
Wide range of easy adjustability. Parents give the Tula Ergonomic Carrier high marks for its broad capacity to adjust. This could be extremely important if you and your spouse have noticeable discrepancies in height and/or weight.
Accessory set. The extras really make the Tula stand out to some parents. Elements like the adjustable hood, infant insert, and a compartment to store extra pacifiers and lovey blankets add a noticeable layer of convenience to its usage.
Extremely comfortable. Moms note that its adjustability does a good job of distributing weight in a comfortable manner. What’s more, the device has sufficient padding, meaning that it won’t sharply dig into your hips or shoulders over time.
Keep In Mind
Gets dirty quickly. The Tula has a tendency to accumulate lint and debris very fast, so if you’re not diligent with a brush, this could be a bit of an issue.
Not as intuitive to use. Some moms point out that the carrier has a longer learning curve to use properly, which may catch people looking for something basic somewhat off-guard.
Best Ergobaby Carrier
The Ergobaby 360's (click here to check the price on Amazon) strength lies in its design, which promotes proper baby posturing in a comfortable manner while simultaneously providing parents of all sizes a maximum level of comfort.
What we like
Multiple ways to carry. The Ergobaby 360 eliminates the problem of having to choose one particular carrier style by its ability to adjust to four different styles. These different positions make the carrier very versatile, particularly if you plan on being active with your baby.
Comfy for you and baby. The ergonomic design of the 360 allows your baby to fit in quite snugly for long periods of time. The design also saves you significant wear and tear on your body, particular if you’re planning on utilizing its services for a lengthy stretch.
Infant insert included. An infant insert is a huge plus; it will allow you to use the carrier as soon as you bring your baby home. This also gives the carrier extended usage as your baby grows.
Keep in Mind
The Velcro can be a nuisance. Some moms complain about the Velco’s presence on the carrier, even as they acknowledge its importance. Specifically, they complain about its noise and its tendency to accidentally stick to things.
No pockets or storage. Unlike some other carriers of this design, the Ergobaby 360 doesn’t have any built-in compartments to stuff toys or other important items to summon on an as-needed basis. This could especially be a hindrance if you and your baby will be out for a lengthy time.
Best Baby Bjorn Carrier
Easy to use and built for safety, the Babybjorn Carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) provides your baby with an amply supported carrier experience with well-thought out physiological accuracy.
What we like
Streamlined design. The build of the Babybjorn Carrier makes using it about as intuitive as carriers get. The clasps that secure the device are easy for you to access, and this makes it very easy to put the device on and off.
Designed with safety in mind. It’s clear that baby safety is the main priority with this carrier. Every aspect of its build has a baby’s physiology in mind, from proper leg positioning to terrific back and head support.
Easy to adjust. You can start using this carrier with your newborn and continue using it up until he or she is 25 pounds. As such, it could be the only carrier of this kind that you’ll ever need.
Keep in Mind
Not great distribution of weight and pressure. Several moms expressed concern about how the Babybjorn's design funnels weight onto your shoulders. The issue with this is this distribution can create stress and pain on your neck and back over time, especially when your baby grows to over 10 pounds.
Not designed for basic comfort. The carrier’s shoulder straps are pretty thin and lack padding. Because of this, the device may have a tendency to dig into your shoulders and cause irritation or discomfort.
Best Baby Carrier for Toddlers
Adaptability is the name of the game when it comes to the Boba 4G Carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon).
This carrier almost feels like a hybrid between a mei tai and a wrap, and this makes it easy for you and your baby to use, regardless of the activity you’re doing.
What we like
Great comfort for parents. The Boba 4G gets rave reviews for how its design evenly distributes the weight. Moms specifically point to the carrier’s adjustment points, and how they help to lessen the discomfort that may otherwise be present around the shoulders and hips.
For parents of all sizes. Plus-size parents in particular point to the carrier’s broad capacity for adjustment as a strong feature. You won’t have to worry about dealing with extension belts or any other extra equipment if you’re not petite.
Strong and sturdy. The Boba 4G has a pretty impressive weight range, as it can hold toddlers up to 45 pounds. You may find this extra capacity pretty important if you’re an active parent with a toddler who may be a bit too tired of walking while you’re out and about.
Keep in Mind
Limited baby positioning. Although the adjustment capacity makes it easy for you to do a wide range of activities with your baby, the way your baby can sit in the carrier is limited. Some people do lament that their baby cannot be carried facing outward.
Can get dirty fast. Some moms point out that the carrier’s fabric makes it a magnet for lint and other debris, which may be an issue if you want to provide your baby with the cleanest experience possible.
Best Baby Wrap
This machine-washable Boba Baby Wrap (click here to check the price on Amazon) acts like a traditional wrap, free of snaps, straps, and buckles.
This is designed to keep your baby snug and close to you – and your voice and heartbeat – as you both go about your daily business. The stretchy, easy-to-tie fabric also simplifies discreet breastfeeding.
What we like
Easy to use. If you’re a bit nervous about using something that relies on tying instead of buckles or snaps, the Boba Baby Wrap will put you at ease. Parents rave about how easy it is to quickly tie carrier and wrap it around your baby securely and worry free.
Snug environment. Moms give the wrap high marks for how comfortable it is for babies, particularly younger ones. Its combination of snugness and comfort may make it pretty easy for your baby to fall asleep.
Easy to keep clean. The machine-washable fabric is easy to clean should your baby accidentally make a mess. This can help you keep the wrap retain a high level of softness and coziness.
Keep in Mind
Stretchy material. Some moms point out that the wrap’s material has a little too much give to it, which may cause issues if you’re trying to wrap a larger, active baby.
Can get uncomfortable in heat. Some moms note that the fabric isn’t too breathable, which means it doesn’t expunge heat too well. This could be problematic during the summer or if you live in an area marked by consistently hot or humid weather.
Best Sling Carrier
The Baby K'tan's (click here to check the price on Amazon) main appeal is that it acts like a wrap without excessive wrapping. This gives the carrier some style points, but it more importantly provides the baby efficient support for the head, shoulders, and back.
Its “double loop” design also provides ergonomically-driven weight distribution.
What we like
Versatility. The design of the Baby K'tan wrap provides an extra measure of malleability that you may not get with some wrap carriers. You can use it to carry your baby on your hip or your back, and your baby can also face forward.
Easy to wear and adjust. Moms who like the Baby K’Tan point to how quick it is to put on, regardless of how they plan on using it. These raves tend to point out that the process is more efficient in comparison to other wraps.
Soft and comfortable for baby. The efficient wrapping design means no stitch of fabric is wasted when it comes to creating a comfy environment for your baby. This translates to having a carrier that’s conducive to naps, which could be a huge bonus for those with newborns.
Keep in Mind
Not so easy to wash. Parents point out that washing the Baby K’tan is tough, because the fabric tends to shrink when it gets machine-washed. Even though it can be laid out to dry, mistakes do happen. In this case, a mistake may end up making your baby uncomfortable as the fabric slowly stretches back to normal.
Breathability issues. Some moms say the fabric absorbs heat rapidly, which can make it uncomfortable for them in a warm environment. This may be something to consider if you live in a warm-weather part of the country.
Best Baby Carrier for Hiking
The MiaMily carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) fits all shapes and sizes, and can accommodate a baby as little as three months old, up to three years old.
It’s made from premium material, which doesn’t rub or cause friction or discomfort while wearing it.
Plus, it boasts self-locking zippers and Duaflex buckles, so you know your child is sitting safely and securely, but also comfortably.
What we like
Extra storage and cell phone pocket. What parent doesn’t love little zippered pockets to hold their keys, gum, and other trinkets?
Breathable mesh. This allows parents to wear it comfortably during hot weather and not overheat and sweat through their clothing.
Converts to a hip seat. Sometimes your back and shoulders need a break, so a comfortable hip holder is an option with MiaMily.
Keep in Mind
Padding ends at the armpit. Some parents remarked that this made wearing it long term, a bit uncomfortable at times.
Bulky and large. It does take up a lot of space around the house or in a diaper bag, but once parents have it on, it doesn’t seem so big.
Best Travel Baby Carrier
The WeeSprout Baby Wrap Carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) allows you to be totally hands free, and comfortable while having your baby in tow.
So, you can cook, clean, walk the dog-all without the use of a stroller or car seat carrier. Your baby will remain comfortable and close to you.
So, feel free to breastfeed, bond, and live your life without restrictions. The sling is not just comfortable, but it reduces back and shoulder strain, thanks to its innovative design.
What we like
Reduces crying. Parents remark how the wrapped effect of the sling helps relax their baby’s muscles, which decreases the likeliness of crying and also helps babies sleep better.
Great for breastfeeding. The sling offers plenty of coverage and privacy, all while keeping your baby perfectly positioned.
No buckles or rings. Parents love that it’s without these uncomfortable accessories, yet still strong and sturdy.
Keep in Mind
Must practice wearing. Lots of parent users feel that it takes a few times to get used to the directions for wrapping it and wearing it. Some feel that if it’s not secured properly, it tends to sag, or there’s simply too much bulky material left around.
Tends to get stretched out. Because it’s made of a sweatshirt-type material, some users feel they noticed it lost it’s elasticity too soon, and get too stretchy for their liking.
Best Backpack Baby Carrier
The Kelty Journey (click here to check the price on Amazon) is fully loaded and engineered for safety, comfort, and durability.
Super structured, the backpack-like carrier is designed to accommodate a custom-fit for either parent.
It has plenty of storage and it’s sturdy and strong, so it can accommodate a larger toddler making it great for outdoor use or to take on vacations with active travelers.
What we like
Eliminates the need for a purse. Because the carrier contains so many zippered compartments, it’s all you literally need when you’re out and about!
Offers plenty of room. Parents feel that their child has plenty of room and comfort while sitting in the carrier. So, their young baby was able to grow into it over the year without being squished.
Super structured. Parents love how their child is perfectly positioned upright, allowing them to gain a clear view of their surroundings while having their head fully supported.
Keep in Mind
Not ergonomically designed. Some parents feel the overall design of the carrier leaves their child’s legs hanging, and not cradled or supported.
Adjustment glitches. Parents also note that one of the buckles can be difficult to adjust and its placement can rub against you, making the carrier slightly uncomfortable for long term use.
Best Ring Sling Baby Carrier
The Hip Baby Wrap (click here to check the price on Amazon) is lightweight, yet supportive to wear and easy to manipulate.
It has superior ergonomic design that helps distribute your baby’s weight evenly across your body. So, your shoulders and neck will not be strained.
Carry your baby facing you, or positioned on your hip for a different view.
Composed of 100% cotton, you get something soft, strong, and secure to tote your baby around in.
What we like
Designed for long-term use. A toddler can be carried in it up to 35 pounds. So, you’ll get several years of use out of your investment.
Cool to wear. 100% cotton is breathable and lightweight, so it’s not a burden to wear during hot summer months.
No chemicals. You’ll find non-toxic dyes used in each fair trade wrap, and they are also handwoven and are eco-friendly.
Keep in Mind
No padding. If you're used to a highly structured wrap with straps and buckles (and also padding), this wrap has nothing but material.
Takes some practice. Many parents feel it takes some time to get the hang of putting the sling on with a child, and also adjusting it one handed.
Best Ergonomic Baby Carrier
The Infantino Cuddle Up (click here to check the price on Amazon) carries babies ranging from 12-40 pounds.
It serves as a comfy, roomy, and sturdy ergonomic seat for your baby. Utilize it to carry a little one facing the front, or as a backpack style.
It has a removable canopy hood, which helps shield baby from the elements and give you some privacy when nursing.
It’s also fully adjustable to fit any caregiver's body type, and it will grow as your baby does.
What we like
Extra-plush shoulder pads. Parents love how comfortable it is to wear the carrier, thanks to its abundant padding.
Waist belt. Not all carriers feature a waist belt. Enjoy the additional lumbar support, which keeps you pain-free while carrying your baby, and afterward.
Teddy bear hoodie. This removable feature makes your baby look extra adorable, while getting protected from all weather elements.
Keep in Mind
Face-in position. When wearing this, your baby must face you. There are no other wearing options.
Fabric attracts lint. If you plan on wearing a certain shirt, have pets, or your child needs to carry a blanket in conjunction with the carrier, count on it collecting lint, due to its fabric make
Best Forward-Facing Baby Carrier
This 2 in 1 sling and carrier by Bebamour (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a great item if you want something your baby can grow into and you can get years of use out of it.
Use the whole baby carrier, or just the single hip seat to suit your baby’s carrying preferences—they get six ways to be transported.
Its shoulder straps and waist strap are all wide, cotton, padded, and adjustable so you don’t have to worry about fit issues.
It also boasts a removable hood and a zippered pocket, so you can transport your stuff with ease and without bringing another bag out with you.
What we like
Noiseless buckle. If your baby falls asleep, you don’t have to worry about any noisy buckles waking them up!
Lightweight. The hip seat absorbs the weight of the baby, so you’ll feel little to no pressure on your shoulders or back.
Easy to get on. Simply fasten and click. You don’t have to spend time practicing getting the carrier on and off because its design and function is very straightforward.
Keep in Mind
Back position needs assistance. Putting baby in the back position is difficult without an extra set of hands.
Lower back support lacking. Although it takes stress off shoulders, it doesn’t do much to address bottom half issues after carrying baby for a long amount of time.
Best Lumbar Support Baby Carrier
Lanova’s baby carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) offers carrying positions from virtually any angle.
It’s made with 100% cotton, so it’s not just comfortable, it’s free from harmful materials or dyes. It also has breathable 3D mesh, which keeps an even temperature.
The carrier overall is much lighter than other carriers on the market, so it’s easy to travel with or pack in your diaper bag.
Its ergonomic design is good for the wearer and the baby, and there’s plenty of head support offered when your baby is sleeping or being toted around.
What we like
Ergonomic design. The wide, padded waist belt provides plenty of lumbar support. It also has wide and padded shoulder straps to help distribute weight evenly.
Hip-seat based. Your baby has plenty of room since they aren’t wrap tightly to your body. This helps the carrier remain large enough to use as your baby grows.
Extra large waist band. Postpartum moms appreciate the extra large option during the initial few postpartum months because they get a great fit.
Keep in Mind
Not ideal for babies under 15 pounds. The carrier is so large and roomy (and doesn’t include an infant insert), so it’s not that great for newborns.
Has a velcro closure. The velcro closure can be scratchy and grab onto your favorite apparel.
Best Baby Carrier for Breastfeeding
The Sleepy Wrap (click here to check the price on Amazon) is designed for newborns up to 35 pounds.
It has stretchy material that allows you to easily tie your baby snugly. Your baby will conform tightly to your body and allow you to go hands free.
It's ergonomically designed to distribute your baby’s weight, so you won’t have to worry about straining your back. It’s ultra soft and stretchy, and it’s machine washable, which is helpful to keep it clean and fresh.
What we like
Great for breastfeeding. You'll love the perfect placement you get with the wrap and the privacy you receive when nursing in public.
Lightweight and compact. Because this is virtually a piece of strong, stretchy fabric, you'll love how easy it is to toss in your car, diaper bag, or roll up and put into the bottom of their stroller.
Conforms to baby. Because the fabric is stretchy, totally conforms to your baby and gives off a second skin feel, it helps them remain happy, comfortable, and cozy while sleeping.
Keep in Mind
Can cause sensitivities. Some parents remarked that they had an irritation to the fabric. They reported it feeling itchy and showed signs of sensitivity to the fabric. So, if you have ultra sensitive skin, you may need to beware.
Can be tricky to tie. Can take some time to learn how to tie the wrap properly in order to feel your baby is fully safe and supported.
Best Baby Carrier for Newborns
Infantino’s Zip Travel carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) is just what you need for your on the go lifestyle.
Carry your 12 pound to 40 pound child around with ease. It’s super simple to fold up or unpack, so it travels and stores well.
Its ergonomic design supports a baby’s natural sitting position and it leaves you with a facing in or backpack position to choose from.
Ideal for outdoor festivities, the carrier will allow you to go hands free and remain comfortable for long periods of time.
What we like
Fanny pack feature. Utilize the zippered pocket feature in conjunction with the carrier, or detach it and wear the fanny pack feature only when on vacation or when a carrier isn’t needed.
Doesn't need a spotter. The backpack carry is easy to achieve on your own and doesn't require an extra set of hands, like many other carriers do.
Conforms to baby. Because the fabric is stretchy, totally conforms to your baby and gives off a second skin feel, it helps them remain happy, comfortable, and cozy while sleeping.
Keep in Mind
Not a lot of padding. While it has some padding, it isn’t fully loaded like other carriers can be. This is probably why it's easy to travel with and pack. But, if you'll be wearing it for a long period of time, you may crave the additional padding for comfort purposes.
Doesn't breathe. The fabric isn’t very breathable, so it could leave you and your baby feeling overly hot and stuffy.
Wrapping Up
There's no way around it: a baby carrier is a necessity for new moms.
It makes your life easier in so many ways, it allows for bonding, and it makes having an active lifestyle possible with a baby.
Consider some of the carriers reviewed above and their features in order to choose the best one for your needs and your lifestyle.
