What Baby Carrier Is Best For Newborns

Do You Need A Baby Carrier

What is the Best Baby Carrier

In short: No. You dont have to use a baby carrier with your infant.

In fact, most items youll see on registries arent absolute must-haves. A baby carrier is in the could-be-nice category. Some parents may do well without it. That said, others cannot see living life any other way.

For this reason, you may want to check around to see if your area has any local babywearing groups. You may be able to try out different carriers for free with the groups loan program.

There are definitely pros when it comes to using a baby carrier:

Babybjrn Baby Carrier One Vs Ergobaby Omni 360 Carrier

Ever find yourself stuck between two products and you just cant make up your mind? Baby registry decision fatigue is realso Babylists Help Me Decide! series is here to help.

If youre in the market for a baby carrier, odds are youve come across two of the most popular options around: Babybjörns Baby Carrier One and Ergobabys Omni 360 Baby Carrier. Both will take you from the baby days well into toddlerhood and are praised for their versatility, ease of use and ergonomic designs that are comfortable both for you and your little one.

But which one should you choose? While there are a lot of similarities between these two bestselling carriers, there are also some significant differences. Heres what you need to know to make the right decision.

How To Use The Keababies Baby Wrap Carrier

Despite the multi-purpose nature of the KeaBabies wrap, the piece is surprisingly easy to use. And the Keababies site has several step-by-step instructional videos for you to follow to learn how to tie the wrap and thread the carrier.

As with any new item, practice makes perfect. Try this simple tying method 2-3 times using a teddy or doll before trying it with your newborn.

Fold the wrap in half horizontally. Take the folded wrap and place it flat across your stomach with the KeaBabies label in the center. Take the ends of the wrap and cross them over your back, bringing them back over your shoulders to your chest. Gather the two ends of the wrap and tuck them through the front of the wrap.

Cross the two ends, wrap them behind your back, and tie them at your front using a double knot. You can also safely tie the wrap behind your back, depending on how much fabric is leftover.

To place your baby in the wrap, check that the two sides of the opening face each other, hold your baby on your left shoulder, and slip their leg and bottom in the right opening. Support their head and slip their left leg into the left pocket. Pull the front panel that has the KeaBabies label over the babys bottom and shoulders.

There are several hold variations you can try as your baby grows from the front hold for babies 3 months old and over to the front-facing hold.

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How To Tie A Baby Carrier

Follow these steps:

  • Place the logo label over your belly button and wrap it around your waist.
  • Cross the straps behind you and make an X on your back and bring right over your shoulders. Keep the wrap flat as best as you can to make it comfier for you.
  • Ensure that the opening is facing the inside for both sides and not facing out.
  • Take both ends and tuck it right down to the front under the logo.
  • Cross both sides into an X in the front then take it around the back and tie a double knot. If you have excess fabric, you can take it around to the front and tie it in front of the other side. You can now put the baby in using the above process.
  • Check out this YouTube video below for visual aid on how to tie your baby carrier.

    The most recommended baby carrier for your newborn in my list today is the BabyBjörn as it is the most popular brand among dads and moms. In addition, it features an ergonomic design that comes with a roomy seat which grows with your little angel, as well as wide padded straps that provide you as a parent with good support. Yes, it might be pricey, but the advantage is that you can use it until your baby reaches 36 months.

    • About the Author

    At What Age Should You Stop Using A Baby Wrap

    The Best Baby Carriers for Newborns and Toddlers in 2020

    Some caregivers stop using a baby wrap after the first few months, others around 18 months, and some use one even with their older toddlers.

    Theres no specific age when you must stop using a baby wrap. Instead, refer to a wraps specific guidelines around height and weight.

    Also consider what size child you feel comfortable carrying in a wrap.

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    Best For Minimalists: Sollybaby The Wrap

    Solly Baby

    • It takes some practice to get the wrapping of the fabric right
    • Does not accommodate wearing babies on the back

    Product Description

    When my kid was very small, it could be difficult to get out of the house with all of the accoutrements of life with a baby: diapers, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, pacifiers, etc. But it was easy to stuff the Solly Wrap into a bag at the last second, and I was always glad I didespecially when the opportunity for an impromptu hike or walk came up.

    The Wrap is essentially a long piece of stretchy fabric, and it can be intimidating to use for the first time. But I found that after a few practice sessions , that it was simple to use and required fewer adjustments than more heavy duty baby carriers. Because the wrap is so form-fitting, my balance was better than with other baby carriers, and I was less paranoid that a foot or hand would become snagged in a cord. I also appreciated having the option to tuck in tiny feet on days when the wind picked up.

    Because the wrap can hold fairly large babieseasily past their first yearI was able to switch from this straight to a more traditional backpack style carrier without the need for anything more robust in between. -Laura Lancaster

    What Are The Types Of Baby Wrap Carriers

    Baby wrap carriers come in two basic styles:

  • Stretchy: These carriers are made of material that stretches: usually cotton knit. Because of this, McMillin says stretchy wraps are generally one size fits all, so you can share between caregivers. They are often intended for younger babies, with weight maximums ranging between 25 and 35 pounds. They are inexpensive, and commonly sold in stores and online.
  • Woven: Made of non-stretch material like cotton, polyester, bamboo, or linen, these carriers are often more expensive than stretchy wraps. The lack of stretch, however, allows woven wraps to support more weight: up to 55 pounds in some cases. They’re generally not carried in mainstream stores, and are often made by niche companies.
  • McMillin notes that some high-end brands might use cashmere, wool, or silk to create their carrier wraps, often resulting in a higher price tag.

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    Types Of Baby Carriers

    There are a few types of baby carriers on the market and knowing the styles available will help you choose the right one for your needs.

    Sling or Wraps: These are usually unstructured fabric carriers that create a pouch to hold your baby. Some have rings, some are padded, and some have neither.

    Soft Structured Carriers: This is a secure carrier that often can be worn a few ways, so you can hold the baby facing front, backward, sideways, or more. The structured carrier is easy to put on and can be adjusted.

    Backpack Carriers: The heaviest and most structure of the options. These are worn on the back and hold the baby high up on the adults back.

    The Best Baby Carriers To Keep Your Baby Safe And Happy

    TIPS | Newborn Must-Haves

    Finding the right baby carrier can be a godsend for busy parents, allowing you to keep your little one snug and close while you use your hands for other things. They also give you the freedom to go to places that a buggy cant.

    Most parents claim that baby carriers are their favourite baby products. When choosing a baby carrier, there are a few things to consider to find the right one for you.

    As well as revealing the different types of baby carriers, weve spoken to expert Rosie Dodds, NCTs senior policy adviser, to ask about safety when it comes to keeping your baby secure in a baby carrier.

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    Who Should Get This

    Babywearing has been shown to reduce crying in infants by up to 43 percent, and can help foster strong bonds between the child and caregiver through increased contact and interaction. It also frees up the caregivers hands to do other tasks or attend to another child. As Babywearing International pointed out, baby carriers can also go where strollers cant, such as on stairs or hikes or through heavy crowds.

    If youre expecting a baby and trying to choose among the many carrier options, a buckle carrier offers a short learning curve and a backpack-like design thats easy to take on and off or to switch between multiple adults. They’re generally easier to use than fabric carriers , which can require an initial lesson from an expert plus time and practice to get right.1 Theyre more convenient than hiking baby carriers, which are designed with rigid frames, generally bigger and more expensive than buckle carriers, and best suited to people who walk on a trail for more than a mile or two at a time.

    Who Would The Carrier Be Most Useful For

    This comfortable and lightweight carrier will be ideal for parents who enjoy long walks and hikes and dont want the hassle of using a pushchair on tough terrains. Its also great for everyday tasks like popping round to the corner shop or for longer journeys where you may need to get public transport and would prefer to leave the buggy at home.

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    Baby Ktan Breeze Baby Wrap

    This easy to use wrap is made from 100% cotton with a patented double-loop design for extra security for your baby.

    It comes in multiple sizing options up to size 24 dress size and is machine washable and dryer safe. It can be used from birth to 35lbs.

    The Baby KTan is also recognized as hip healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. This means that the it provides a supportive ergonomic positioning for hip healthy development and provide soft head support for your baby.

    What We Like:

    Is The Wrap Ergonomic

    Best Baby Carriers 2020 l New Baby Carrier 2020

    Yes, the Boba Wrap provides an M position seat and is recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as a hip-healthy product. Max certainly felt very well supported and comfortable in the wrap when I got the tension right. I suffer with a bit of neck, shoulder and back pain, down to years of working at a computer and scoliosis, but using the carrier didnt aggravate those areas.

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    Is The Baby Bjorn One Carrier Suitable For Newborns

    Yes, it is. The carrier is suitable from birth until when your baby weighs 15kg. My daughter Ava is just two months old, so we tested the newborn position.

    Unlike other carriers, you dont need to buy a newborn insert. Instead, a nifty zip system allows newborns to sit higher on your chest for an extra snuggly hold.

    When your little one reaches four months, you simply move the zip to the baby position. At five months you can try the forward-facing option.

    Then at 12 months, your child can be carried on your back. I found the safety and head support buckles a bit tricky to use at first, but after a few days Id mastered them. You know theyre secure when you hear a confidence-inspiring click.

    What Are The Ergobaby Embrace Carrier Shoulder Straps Like

    The shoulder straps are wonderfully lightweight. The design allows them to be spread out across your shoulders for more support when the carrier is in newborn and baby facing-in positions. With your baby is facing out you dont need to spread the straps.

    Additionally, support comes from the cross-shoulder design. The only glitch we encountered, and I wonder if this is because we are tall parents, is that the straps tended to ride up our backs instead of staying put, spread over the shoulders.

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    How Do I Know If My Baby Is In A Safe Position

    Theres a helpful acronym TICKS that can help you determine if you are carrying your baby safely.

    • T tight: Your baby should be snug against your body with no loose fabric or opportunity for slouching.
    • I in view at all times: You should be easily able to see your babys face/mouth to see if theyre breathing and not experiencing an obstruction.
    • C close enough to kiss: You should be able to easily bend your chin down and kiss the top of your babys head.
    • K keep off the chest: Your baby should not have their head tucked onto their chest .
    • S supported back: Your baby should be worn close enough to maintain their natural spinal position no slouching/slumping.

    Best Baby Carriers For Breastfeeding Moms

    Packing my hospital bag for labor and delivery! OBGYN doctor prepares for second baby

    When your a breastfeeding mom you get the desire for hands free nursing while walking at the same time as breastfeeding! While learning to nurse in a baby carry, then go hands free, then ultimately walk at the same time as breastfeeding can take a little practice, you can get there! Discover the best baby carrier for breastfeeding moms that will allow you to keep your baby close to nurse in plus how to choose the best baby carrier for you!

    SPOILER: My personal favorite is this one!

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    How Long Can I Wear My Baby In A Carrier

    Always refer to the manufacturers instructions when it comes to the weight/age that is appropriate for use in your carrier. Each baby carrier is different. If you find your carrier secondhand, look up the specs online before use.

    As far as how long each day you can wear your baby, there is no set standard. Its really up to you and your little one. Genevieve Howland, a doula and childbirth educator at the blog Mama Natural explains that as long as your carrier supports healthy positioning, you can continue to wear for as long during the day as you are both comfortable.

    Homemade Plus Size Babywearing

    If your head is spinning from all of the options above, or you just want to save money, you can try out the DIY approach. Google Homemade or DIY babywearing, and you’ll see lots of great suggestions.

    And just like we mentioned above, with woven warps, many people sell or hand down gently used carriers and wraps. You can find items listed for sale via local parenting Facebook groups and Facebook groups dedicated to babywearing swaps.

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    I Tested The Tush Baby Carrier With My 23

    PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. You can learn more about that process here.

    I had prepared myself for most milestones with my baby. But when the Id rather push the stroller than ride in it milestone came, it came fast and it came furious. We couldnt go anywhere without the BOTH of us pushing the stroller for a majority of the ride. My back hurt, my neck hurt and I finally learned what a rotator cuff was because I pulled mine. Cue: Tush Baby. I had heard about Tush Baby while cruising the Big Baby sub-Reddit thread for baby carrier suggestions, and it seemed unanimous that Tush Baby was the way to go. So, me and my 23-pound baby put it to the test.

    Baby Ktan Original Baby Wrap Carrier Faq

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    Is it possible to nurse in this carrier?

    The front hug and side hip positions are perfect for nursing your baby in! The instructions also warn that you should make sure to check over safety features before trying them out.

    Would you be able to wear a baby on your back with this?

    The safety of your baby is too important to take risks with, even if its just in passing. While the manual doesnt show how you could wear them on your back while using this carrier and they dont feature that position online or elsewhere Ive seen questions addressed at least once before we are not sure whether wearing a child would feel safe enough!

    Is it okay to use a baby carrier for 12 months old babies?

    The Baby Ktan carriers are designed for use from birth up until 35 lbs., and come in five different ergonomic positions: Kangaroo , Hug Adventure Explore Hip where you can hold onto both ends of the carrier like a backpack!

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    The Best Baby Carriers Of 2023

    Baby carriers help you form an intimate bond with your little one, holding them close to your chest where they can sense your warmth and security. The soft-structured baby carrier provides you with all the intimacy and versatility of a baby wrap, with added convenience and ease of use.

    Each year we update this list with the best soft-structured baby carriers we’ve found. Here are the top five infant carriers we found, followed by reviews of about a dozen different options.

    Model and Link to Amazon Our Rating
    #5. Tula Explore Baby Carrier

    Baby-wearing is more popular than ever, providing an easy way for parents to keep their little ones nearby and protected while out of the house. Finding the perfect baby carrier is a challenging task, with a simple Amazon search revealing hundreds of soft-structured baby carriers to choose from.

    The good news is that we did the work for you! To find you the best baby carrier of the year, we tested out 11 new models and 4 updated models.

    We carried infants from 4 weeks to 11 months old, and toddlers from 12 to 30 months. Our testers included petite, average-size, and plus-size parents, to ensure appropriate adjustability for all shapes and sizes.

    Looking for a less expensive option? Check out our list of the best budget baby carriers!

  • Table of Contents
  • Full disclosure: Some of these carriers, including the Contours, Beco, Ergobaby, and Moby models, were sent to us as free test samples by the manufacturer.

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