Do you really need a baby carrier?

Baby carriers are marvellous at allowing you to carry your baby while also having your hands free. Baby carrying is great for travelling, shopping or when you are running around after an older child. It is also helpful if you have an overtired or sick bubba, as babies love being close to you so they can hear your heart beat.

When purchasing a baby carrier, make sure it is comfortable for you, especially on your shoulders and back. Most importantly, make sure your baby sits safely and correctly in the carrier by following safe babywearing recommendations (read more here). Firstly, make sure baby sits snug and high on your torso, not low on your hips. Baby should be in a hip-safe position with his knees at an angle higher than his hips. Secondly, ensure his airway is always clear and open. Baby’s chin should be at least a finger-width off his chest, his back should be in a naturally straight position, his head close enough for you to easily kiss the top of it, and you should be able to see his face at all times so you know he is breathing well.

I recommend parents purchase baby carriers directly from retailers and learn how to use them correctly. Don’t use a secondhand carrier if there are any signs of wear and tear, as the integrity of the carrier may be compromised.

There are different types of carriers, all with their pros and cons.

Slings

Ring slings or buckle slings are made from lengths of woven fabric with rings or buckles for fastening. They are worn over one shoulder with your little one cradled in the sling diagonally across your body when they’re small, or in a more vertical position on your hip when they’re older. Suitable from newborn to three years old.

• Slings are easy to use – you just put your baby in and pop the sling over your shoulder. It’s important to get baby’s position in this carrier correct, especially so his chin is off his chest and his airway is clear.

• Slings fit all sizes of adults, so both parents can use them without much readjusting.

• Slings provide support for the natural C-shape curve of a newborn spine.

• The weight is directed over only one shoulder, which can tire quickly. 

• Mid-range slings cost around $100.

Wraps

A wrap is a long piece of fabric that is wrapped around you and baby, and tied in a variety of ways to create a carrier. Stretchy wraps are great for little babies but unsuitable for bigger babies/toddlers. They’re also not recommended for back carrying. Woven wraps are the way to go for carrying a larger baby/toddler.

• Wraps spread baby’s weight over your shoulders and body, making them very comfortable to wear for long periods.

• They’re very versatile. You can wear baby on your front, side/hip and back, and there are lots of fabric patterns to choose from.

• You might need two wraps: a stretchy wrap for your newborn, then a woven wrap for your baby once he’s a bit bigger.

• Wraps take a lot of practice to get right!

• They can be hot as you are wrapping up to five metres of fabric around you.

• Costing around $70, wraps are good value.

Front packs or soft structured carriers

These carriers are much like a backpack with padded shoulder straps and waist-band and a fabric seat and back panel to support baby, put together with buckles.

• They’re easy to use when you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• They’re supportive and comfortable for both parents and baby.

• They have good longevity with some carriers being able to carry children up to four years old, or around 20kgs. Some also give full 360° use, meaning you can wear baby on your front, side/hip and back.

• These carriers tend to be pricier, ranging from $150 to $350, but you do get longevity out of them. Some soft structured carriers will require the use of a newborn insert that needs to be purchased separately at extra cost. 

I recommend you look around while you’re pregnant and talk to your friends about their baby carriers, but wait until after your baby is born to purchase one. It’s hard for mothers to try on baby carriers with pregnant bellies getting in the way, and it’s also good to try on the different types with your baby to find the one that is most comfortable for you both.