You are perhaps reading this blog post because you are already looking for the best baby carrier for you and your child. However, if you are still exploring the idea and are still unsure, check out our blog post on Babywearing: Benefits and Common Misconceptions to help you make an informed choice.

After deliberating the pros and cons and assessing if it fits your lifestyle, you can make a personal decision to start babywearing.  If you opt to babywear your child, the next question is what baby carrier is suited for you. 

Types of Baby Carriers

What's the best type of baby carrier? There's actually no standard answer for that because the best choice depends on different factors – baby's age, weight, weather, your body type, your personal preferences, and budget.

Here is a quick reference on the different types of carriers that are available in the market today.

1. Stretchy Wrap

A wrap is the simplest baby carrier because it is just made of a long fabric to wrap your baby to your body. However, the simplicity of the material may make it difficult for beginners to use it.

The first type of wrap is made of stretchy fabric.  It is made of cotton/spandex blend or 100% jersey material.  It is best suited for newborns until 20 lbs. child.

Advantages of Using a Stretchy Wrap

·       Flexibility

You can wear your child on your hips or in your front.

·       Adaptability 

You can adjust the fit on your body, making it comfortable to wear.

·       Designs

There are various colours and designs available in the market.

·       Best for Babies

Newborns can rest in the natural M-position of hips and hips inside the wrap. In addition, the wrap provides a warm snuggle to your baby. 

·       Soft Material 

The fabric used for wraps is stretchy, silky, and soft to touch.

·       Comfort 

Wraps help distribute your child's weight, so you don't feel the strain on your back.  It is also easy to maneuver the baby's position when breastfeeding.

·       Budget-Friendly

It is an affordable option for baby-wearing newborns.

Disadvantages of Using a Stretchy Wrap

·       Difficulty in Wearing the wrap.

Beginners may find using a wrap challenging or even intimidating. It's going to take some practice to get the fit just right.

·       Warmness

Although the cloth used in the wrap is breathable, it is still an extra layer of clothing.  Also, it may be too warm for your baby during summertime.

·       Does not offer a lot of support to your back and shoulder.

It is best suited for newborns, but as your child grows, you feel uncomfortable as you feel your baby's weight on your shoulder.

TIPS:

·       Choose a stretchy wrap if you anticipate that you will be in and out of the wrap. 

·       Practice with a doll or a small pillow and in front of the mirror. 

2.  Woven Wrap

Woven wraps are like the stretchy wrap, but the difference lies in the material.  Woven wraps are made with either 100% cotton, wool, cashmere, or silk. 

Advantages of Using a Woven Wrap

·       Flexibility

You have the option to wear your baby in different ways. For example, you can wear your baby in the front,  by your hips, or on your back with your woven wrap.

You can also tandem carry your two children – one in front and one in the back.

·       Designs

You can pick from a wide selection of colours and designs.

·       Longer Use

Woven wraps can be used for newborn baby up to a preschooler.

·       Soft Material

The high-quality fabric used for wraps is soft yet stable enough to hold even a 4-year-old child.

·       Comfort 

Wraps help distribute your child's weight, so you don't feel the strain on your back.  It is also easy to maneuver the baby's position when breastfeeding.

Disadvantages of Using a Woven Wrap

·       More challenging to use.

It is harder to use, but you should be able to wear it quickly with practice.

·       More expensive.

Woven wraps are more expensive than stretchy wraps.

·       Warmness

Although the cloth used in the wrap is breathable, it is still an extra layer of clothing. In addition, it may be too warm for your baby during summertime.

TIPS: 

·       Choose a woven wrap if you will be wearing your baby for extended periods.

·       Practice with a doll or a small pillow and in front of the mirror.

 3. Ring Sling

A ring sling is a 2-meter-long fabric that has two rings at the end.  You need to insert the fabric through one ring and tuck it under the second ring to use it.  The rings make it easier for you to adjust the tightness of the wrap.

Ring sling simulates a pouch for the baby.  You wear it with one end of the fabric on the shoulder and the other by the hip. 

A ring sling is made of stretchy fabric.  It is usually made with cotton/spandex blend or 100% jersey material.  It is best suited for newborns until 20 lbs. child.

Advantages of Using a Ring Sling

·       Easily adjustable 

The ring makes it easier to tighten or loosen the pouch.

·       Easier to use

A ring sling is best suited for beginners because it is easier to use compared to wraps.

·       Many Available Designs

There is a variety of designs and colours available in the market.

Disadvantages of Using a Ring Sling

·       Not suited for those who have shoulder or back problems.

If you are experiencing shoulder or back pains, the ring sling is not for you.  Because the weight is not equally distributed, it can be uncomfortable or even painful to use, especially during extended periods.

·       Very long

Because ring slings are long, the end may get stuck or get dirty.

Have you made up your mind yet?  Hold on to that thought, as these are just a few examples of carriers. Then, stay tuned to our next blog post for the next set of baby carriers that you can choose from.

Have you tried babywearing too? Please share your babywearing experiences, comments, or tips in the comment section below.