“A baby carrier is essential”, that is what new mums would say. However, finding the types of baby carriers has never been easy for any parent.
As a mother, I have worn all of my babies, and I have had first-hand experience. And I can tell you this: A baby carrier that works for someone else won’t necessarily work for you. In other words, if a carrier works well for another child, it doesn’t mean the same will work best for your own.
Parents are different. And when it comes to baby carriers, they always have different needs. Some just search for the best carriers. Some look for the cutest baby carriers, while others look for the safest baby carrier for plus size. And with so much information out there, it is easy to get lost in baby carrier reviews. That is why I wrote this guide. My goal is to provide a summary as well as things to consider before buying a baby carrier.
Factors to Consider before Buying a Baby Carrier
Here are things to consider before buying a baby carrier:
1. Length of Use
For how long have you planned to wear your baby? Some of the carriers will only work well for the infants, but for older toddlers.
2. Who will Use the Carrier?
Carriers can be further adapted to meet the needs of multiple caregivers. Some are bought according to their size. Consider a carrier that can be easily adjusted to fit a range of body types, especially if multiple caregivers will use the carrier.
3. Frequency of Use
Will you just wear your baby around your house to free your hands? Or are you planning to wear your baby most of the time? If you plan to use it a carrier more frequently, go for one with multiple positions and more support becomes more important.
4. Climate
Some carriers make both the mum and the baby hot. You should look for a carrier with a lighter fabric that makes it more suitable to wear in different seasons.
5. Lifestyle
Some carriers need a lot of attention to be used carefully. Everybody wants the best carrier for his or her little ones. The first thing you should do is, know how to use a carrier safely before choosing it. Try to think about how you will take the steps necessary each time you put your baby in the carrier.
6. Budget
Baby carriers are available at different prices, ranging from about $20 to $200. The price mostly depends on the type and style. Because it is easy to get carried away by price tags, we suggest that you first get your budget right.
7. Soft Structured Baby Carrier or Buckle Carriers
Many consider structure carriers as the best baby carriers (with good reasons). They have a padded belt with a buckle. Another buckle goes around the chest making it possible for you to wear your baby facing your back or your chest. Some models may also allow you to wear your baby on the sides
The soft-structured baby carriers are the best because they are easy to use. They can be easily adjusted, making it easier for you to wear your baby for long hours
If you require a longer fit, then, waist extenders are also offered separately.
Types of Baby Carriers
1. Ring Sling
Ring slings also referred to as shoulder slings, are baby carriers that are basic and easy to use. They are made of one piece of fabric and they have adjustable rings that go over one shoulder, which helps to get your child in and out of the sling promptly.
Some have extra padding for comfort, making them the only suitable option for infants. Infants can fit snugly in them no matter their sizes since the fabric can be easily tightened or loosened without any limit.
2. Pouch Slings
They are similar to ring slings, and they are therefore also made of a long piece of fabric. The only difference is that, instead of having an adjustable ring, they stretch.
In order to be safe, they must precisely fit. Because they are simple to put on and off in diaper bags and carry around whenever one goes, many women tend to go for them.
3. Wraps
Baby wraps are the most traditional baby carriers in the history of baby carriers. They are difficult to learn to use safely and quickly. Nevertheless, they are popular with most caregivers. The greatest advantage of this kind of baby carrier is that they fit any baby no matter the size, and they are good for parents that want something that they can use more frequently.
Wraps are available in many styles, and that is one good reason to love them. At the end of the day, you can choose a style that’s best for you. Slings are often cheaper, starting from around $20.00
