10 Best Baby Carriers (2018)

After 25 hours of research evaluating 80 products, we picked Ergobaby Four Position 360 Baby Carrier as our top choice.

Life doesn’t slow down with a baby in the house. It speeds up (and continues to move even faster as the years pass). You’ve got plenty to do, whether your baby likes it or not.

Adding the best baby carrier you can find to the mix only makes it easier, plus you get that closeness both of you enjoy so much.

And there are plenty of benefits of babywearing, as it is sometimes called, including happier, healthier babies.

Of course, safety is as much of a concern when your baby is strapped to you as it is when using a car seat or placing your baby in a swing. Most important is ensuring you’re not blocking your baby’s airways, according to the (super helpful) folks at Babywearing International.

In addition, you need to pay attention to the temperature of your child and your personal comfort. Some of the best baby carriers on the market make this easier to do, but always err on the side of caution.

Luckily, we’ve spent hours reviewing the best baby carrier options available. And we really think you’ll like what we’ve found.

Faveable Expert Tips

What is a baby carrier?

Baby carriers cuddle your baby against your body, leaving you hands free. With a baby carrier, you can navigate easier through crowded places where you would normally be pushing a clunky stroller. Baby Center explains that wearing your baby can actually soothe them and promote bonding between baby and parent. In fact, baby carriers have become so popular; there are now many different kinds.

A structured carrier, also known as a front carrier, typically has two shoulder straps and a fabric seat. The carrier rests on the front of your body with your baby facing inwards towards you. As your baby gets older, they can face outwards. Structured carriers provide a lot of support so you can comfortably hold your baby up to 33lbs. These baby carriers can range anywhere from $30-$180.

A sling is a piece of fabric that can be worn across your body and over one shoulder. Slings are great for those who want something simple and stylish. Slings are also great for discreetly breastfeeding. A sling can cost anywhere from $25-$200. Like a sling, a wrap is also made of a wide piece of fabric. However, a wrap can be made into many types of configurations.

How are baby carriers useful?

A baby carrier is extremely useful for both you as a parent, and for your baby. Lets start with you, the exhausted and busy parent. Whether or not you’re travelling across the country or to the grocery store, you no longer have to shove your clunky stroller through crowds of people. You can let your baby cuddle close as you navigate the world. Finally, you can take the stairs again. As a bonus, since the baby carrier is worn on the front of your body, you can discreetly breastfeed in public, too. The baby carrier is also useful at home. Baby wraps, which have been used for ages across cultures, are one way to keep that snuggle going while freeing up your hands to tackle dinner prep, cleaning, typing and everything else. Fussy baby? Simply put them in the carrier while you get the dishes done. Now, that’s impressive.

Aside from being a lifesaver out in public, the baby carrier is actually really good for your baby. Baby carriers imitate the womb with their shape and warmth. Therefore, babies love them. In fact, they increase the closeness between you and your baby. They become instantly soothed. The baby carrier allows your little one to sit comfortably facing you, which encourages visual connection. They can actually be a part of your life rather than watching from the sidelines.

What is the best baby carrier?

Ergobaby Four Position 360 Baby Carrier is a super safe and secure baby carrier that features a deep seat design that allows for natural hip development. It’s also adjustable in many ways to make it comfortable for all body types. This carrier is exceptionally comfortable for you and your baby. No matter how your little one sits, the spine curves in the natural C position.

This carrier also has a sleep hood that can block the sun or give you a little extra privacy while breastfeeding. This Ergo baby carrier features sturdy construction, is machine washable, and doesn’t ever make you or baby too hot. This cotton carrier can be transformed into four different positions – front facing, front back facing, back and hip carrying. It has a maximum weight of 33 pounds, which means it will hold your little one until 2-3 years old. There are 18 different colors available; you’ll definitely find something that suits you. The $159 cost is on the pricey side, but it's totally worth it.

What is a baby wrap?

A baby wrap, or sling, is basically a simplified version of a baby carrier. It’s a wide piece of fabric that holds your little one close to you wherever you go. The fabric measures between 3-7 yards long and 2-3 feet wide. Depending on the length you choose, there are different carrying capabilities you can create. With a baby wrap, your baby can sit comfortably on your front, back, or hip. There are two types of wraps you can find: stretchy and woven. Woven wraps are often made from materials like cotton, linen, and hemp while stretchy wraps are made from jersey, spandex, and lycra. We recommend getting a stretchy wrap though, as it makes it easier to get your baby in and out. To use a baby wrap, you tie and knot the fabric around yourself to create a pouch for your baby to lay or sit in. Unlike structured baby carriers, a wrap has no straps, clasps, or buckles.

What is the best baby wrap?

The Boba Baby Wrap is a wrap-style baby sling that is best for small, light babies and creates a custom fit every time –no matter who’s wearing it. Once you get the hang of tying this wrap, you’re going to find it’s one of the best possible carriers for little babies. You can wrap this into just about any position you like or any position that the baby feels most supported. It’s designed to be placed on either your front or hip. The best part is, this wrap is machine washable so you don’t have to worry about how dirty things get. The Boba is made with 95% cotton and 5% spandex giving it the perfect amount of needed stretch to get your baby in and out with ease. This wrap comes in three neutral colors: black, brown, and grey and costs $40.

What is a Tula?

The Tula is a best-selling brand of baby carriers, slings, and wraps. When someone says Tula, they are most likely referring to the baby carrier though. The award-winning Tula baby carrier is soft and ergonomic. And, it’s handmade with 100% cotton canvas that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. There are two sizes of the baby carrier available: standard and toddler. The toddler baby carrier holds up to 60 lbs.! Now, that’s impressive. The Tula has an M position seat, which can be worn on your front or back. It includes a removable hood and front pocket for storing, too. Where is the Tula made? This product is handmade in Poland.

What is a Manduca?

A Manduca is a type of moth, but it’s also a popular baby carrier. This structured baby carrier was designed in Germany and made with 100% organic cotton. What sets this carrier apart is that it holds newborns up to four years old. Not to be confused with a sling or wrap, this baby carrier has a seat that promotes proper sitting posture. It features upholstered buckles, zippers, and straps that comfortably seat your baby on your front, back, or hip. This carrier also comes with an adjustable head and neck rest so your baby can sit comfortably in an M position. The Manduca comes in a variety of colors including black, tan, brown, red, blue, orange, and green.

When can you put a baby in a carrier?

According to Child Safety Experts, babies can be carried as a newborn but keep in mind babies need to be 4-5 months before neck muscles are strong enough to keep their head up. Once your baby is six months old, they can face outwards. Now, this only applies to structured baby carriers. If you are planning on using a sling or a wrap, you can put your baby in it as a newborn. Slings are best for newborns under 20lbs.

When can you wear your baby on your back?

A soft, structured baby carrier gives you a low and relatively loose back carry. Therefore, your baby needs to be able to hold himself somewhat stable, and not at risk of asphyxiating if he slumps. Carrying your baby on your back should only be used when your baby has strong and consistent head and neck control. It’s also important that their hips and legs open naturally into a spread position.

What age should a baby stop going into a baby carrier?

The answer to this question depends on the brand and model of the baby carrier you choose. Each carrier has a different maximum weight it can hold. However, most carry between 7-40lbs. This means most baby carriers can support a child 3-4 years old. But parents typically stop carrying their little ones around two years old because they learn to walk.

What does baby wear mean?

Baby wearing is essentially wearing or carrying your baby in a sling or carrier. This practice has been used for centuries around the world. Baby wearing, an essential in cultures where the mother must return to manual labor almost immediately after the birth of her baby, is becoming more and more popular in the western world. Today, baby wearing has gained popularity because of the released benefits in attachment parenting. Baby wearing is practical, timesaving, affordable, safe and the perfect way to bond with your baby.

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